Sony’s PlayStation 5 Pro has subtly introduced a fascinating overhaul in its heatsink design, catching the attention of console enthusiasts and experts alike. The popular YouTube channel, TronicsFix, which specializes in console repairs, has unveiled an intriguing modification: the PS5 Pro’s heatsink does not boast a smooth, glossy finish. Instead, it showcases a distinct rectangular spiral surface detail.
This deliberate texture isn’t just for show. According to TronicsFix, this feature is designed to mitigate the formation of dry spots and curb surface oxidation triggered by the migration of the liquid metal thermal interface material (TIM) across the heatsink. Additionally, he believes this intricate pattern gently expands the contact surface area, enhancing its efficiency.
For those who have tackled the challenge of spreading liquid metal, it’s no surprise that the substance tends to form pools and meander in unexpected directions, unlike the conventional thermal pastes. Thus, systems intended for liquid metal heatsinks typically employ seals or dams to ensure this electrically conductive material remains confined, safeguarding other components from potential damage.
Interestingly, TronicsFix also speculates that the liquid metal’s movement is further intensified in PS5 systems positioned and operated vertically. Given Steve at TronicsFix’s extensive experience in mending and fine-tuning numerous PS5s and other consoles, his insights are likely to reflect the real-world scenario quite accurately.
Sony’s choice to incorporate these rectangular spiral grooves in the heatsink, which interfaces with the AMD APU, stands out as it contrasts with traditional cooling approaches. Generally, extreme overclockers and tuning aficionados meticulously polish and flatten processor surfaces for optimal performance. However, the advent of liquid metal seems to have reshaped these practices. It’s safe to assume that Sony has conducted comprehensive A/B testing of this new heatsink design against a traditionally smooth one and deemed it a beneficial thermal adjustment.
Given the PS5 Pro’s enhanced processing capabilities, particularly its robust GPU, these innovative heatsink grooves seem to be part of a strategic shift to avert the issue of thermal throttling.
Although the PS5 Pro was officially revealed in early September, it only recently started landing in the hands of consumers. Enthusiasts and experts are still peeling back the layers of its new design, uncovering more secrets each day. Most of the technical specifics, however, were disclosed by lead architect Mark Cerny during a launch live stream.
