Introduction:

    In order for a CPU to function properly, it needs some sort of cooling. Likewise, in order for a CPU cooler to function properly, it needs some sort of cooling of its own. But how do we get the heat to transfer from one object to another? It's called thermal paste. Thermal paste is a material that connects two surfaces with a viscous compound, allowing heat to pass from one surface to another. Tuniq has release a new version of their thermal compound called TX-2 which replaces the TX-1. Back in 2005, the Tuniq Tower 120 came with the TX-1 thermal paste. Sadly, I don't own the Tower 120 or that computer anymore, so a true comparison can not be done here.

About the Company:

    As a division of Sunbeamtech, Tuniq considers itself in the fashion business of computing industry. We are committed to bring stylish, durable and high performance equipments to the world of computer modding. Our members consist of those who have more than 10 years experience in the industry and enthusiastic young designers full of innovative ideas.
    Our manufacture center, which locates in Dong Guan, China, takes care of a portion of component manufacturing and ensures best quality with reasonable cost for our clients. This combination of enthusiasm and market sophistication makes us a strong and reliable choice in this market. The people in Tuniq are more than pleased to help in tuning your PC and make it into one unique to your own.

Specifications:

• Low thermal resistance for superior heat transfer, 4.5W/mK

• Small molecular size makes a better contact between the heatsink and heat source.

• Thin bond line for hi-efficiency conductivity

• Low bleed under high pressure

• Spreads easy - clean consistency

• Help the low-pressure clip design of cooler to achieve better cooling performance.

• RoHS compliant

• Not Electrically conductive

A Closer Look:

Retail Front

Retail Rear

Specs

    The packaging is rather simple for the TX-2: it comes in a small plastic bag, with a sticker at the top with TX-2 on it and hole for a shelf hook. On the back side of the sticker are a few features of the TX-2 thermal compound. Inside the package is a plastic syringe that holds 3.5g of the grey TX-2 thermal compound.

Front Side

Back Side

Cap Removed

    With the TX-2 compound in hand, it's now time to squeeze some out and onto the CPU. A small amount goes a long way, and it's always easier to add more compound to the CPU if you need it rather than trying to take off excess. I use a small, metal ruler or straight-edged razor blade when I can (the wife won't let me play with sharp objects too often) to smear a thin layer of thermal grease across the processor. This style of application forces the thermal grease into any pockets or indentations on the processor. This method also provides a consistent layer of thermal grease across the processor. Remember that more is not always better in this situation.

Testing:

Intel E6850 CPU

A Ribbon of Paste

Evenly Applied

CPU Installed

    For testing, BurnInTest Ver4.0 and Prime95 was used, running a total of three tests in a sequence of ON for one hour at 100% CPU load, then OFF for 30 minutes to cool. The temps are collected and an average temp is calculated. I also used the ASUS Tritron 75 CPU heatsink without the fan to get a base reference on the temp.

Test Rig:

    As far as thermal grease goes, the Tuniq TX-2 is at the top of the list as it has an advantage over its competitors. That advantage is the way it spreads out over the processor. Some thermal compounds spread out like cold butter and get all clumped up, but the Tuniq TX-2 spreads out smooth like peanut butter and doesn't clump up at all. One small ribbon of paste will spread out evenly and easily over the processor.

    The Tuniq TX-2 performed well and appears to be competitive with the other grey stuff on the market. The TX-2 outperformed the standard white thermal compound and held its own against the other grey compound. A 1° difference in the test temps is a nominal difference and can be attributed to ambient room temps. If you are in need of some thermal compound, then make life a little easier for yourself and give the Tuniq TX-2 a try. I would like to thank Tuniq for sending this item out for VH to review.

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