IndigoXtreme

 

   

Frequently Asked Questions


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Q: What are Indigo Xtreme™ and Indigo XS™?

A: Indigo Xtreme™ and Indigo XS™ are Engineered Thermal Interfaces (ETI) that use Phase Change Metal Alloys (PCMA) contained and deployed from a rigorously tested and patented deployment structure. They provide superlative thermal performance and are designed for the most demanding applications where even popular greases or pastes provide insufficient cooling.


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Q: What is a PCMA?

A: A PCMA, or Phase Change Metal Alloy, typically melts at temperatures between 60-100°C and is designed to melt and solidify multiple times, depending upon the temperature of the electronic component it is interfaced to. Indigo's proprietary PCMAs are Indium-based alloys which reflow between 60-70°C.


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Q: Since the PCMA (within the Indigo Xtreme™ ETI) is an alloy and is electrically conductive, are there electrical shorting issues?

A: There are no reasonable shorting concerns: The ETI is a fully sealed structure. As a result, the PCMA material does not migrate out of the joint, even when subjected to significant shock or vibration.


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Q: Is the PCMA or any part of the ETI toxic?

A: None of the ETI materials represent any danger to users; however, you are advised not to ingest any portion of the ETI. As with any computer or electronic parts, you are responsible for ultimate disposal in an appropriate and legal manner.


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Q: Does Indigo Xtreme contain any Gallium?

A: No. The Indigo Xtreme PCMA is composed primarily of Indium and Bismuth. The alloy is fully compatible with aluminum, copper and nickel plated surfaces.


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Q: Is there a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) available for Indigo TIMs?

A: No. As the Indigo TIM is considered a manufactured item and does not release any hazardous chemicals, it is exempt from requiring a MSDS.


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Q: Metal Pads are notoriously thin and difficult to handle without damage. How robust are the Indigo TIMs?

A: The Indigo TIM is comprised of an integral frame, providing a high degree of rigidity and ease of handling.


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Q: The performance gain of Indigo is plotted vs. CPU power. How can I determine how much power my CPU is dissipating?

A: Use the chip's capacitance, voltage and frequency to calculate CPU power dissipation. Online power calculators are available.


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Q: A CPU core temperature of ~90-100C for reflow sounds hot; will my CPU be damaged?

A: No. All Intel CoreTM CPUs have built-in protection (Adaptive Thermal Monitor) that throttles down power to keep the CPU at a safe operating temperature.


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Q: Why is it necessary to unplug the CPU heat sink fan, case fan(s) and turn off liquid pumps (water cooled systems) before reflow?

A: In order to drive up the core temperatures (to the minimum required temperature) to ensure proper reflow, all sources of thermal convection (air or water flow) must be temporarily disconnected.


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Q: What is the reason why one burn program must be running (during reflow) for each CPU core?

A: Each burn program loads an individual CPU core, resulting in the maximum level of thermal energy generated by the CPU to facilitate proper reflow.


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Q: Metal pads also require a reflow and it has been problematic to tell if complete reflow has been achieved. How can one tell if Indigo has properly reflowed?

A: Complete reflow can be ensured by both properly aligning the ETI to the CPU lid and by achieving the minimum core temperatures (during reflow) as described in the Installation Guide.


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Q: The Indigo ETI appears to extend outside the CPU area; will there be adequate clearance between the heat sink, sink frame, socket, and capacitors on the motherboard?

A: Yes. The ETI is both flexible and thin, easily fitting between all components.


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Q: The Installation Guide indicated that Indigo is a single-use product. Why can't it be re-used?

A: Once the heat sink has been removed (and the interface disrupted), products of corrosion, such as oxygen and moisture, have been introduced onto the top surface of the PCMA, thereby degrading both future performance and reliability.


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Q: One of the kit components was damaged upon delivery, what is the return policy?

A: Your satisfaction with Indigo Xtreme™ matters to us, and we strive to maintain the highest quality standards in our manufacturing and fulfillment practices. We will gladly replace all damaged or defective kit components. Simply return the entire kit in the original box and packaging for a replacement.


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Q: I am unclear or uncertain regarding an installation step and I don't want to risk going any further. Can I receive immediate assistance?

A: Yes! If you have any technical questions during or after installation, feel free to email or phone us at: 425-888-1880.


    This page last modified Friday November 15, 2013
Indigo Xtreme


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