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How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD

Introduction

Use this guide to install a heatsink onto an M.2 2280 blade-style SSD.

If you plan on using your SSD in a PlayStation 5, make sure it’s compatible with Sony’s specifications.

What you need

  1. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Prepare the first thermal pad: step 1, image 1 of 1

    • The heatsink uses thermal pads to dissipate heat from either side of the blade SSD. The thermal pads may come with plastic liners on each side, so make sure all are removed before use.

    • Use a pair of tweezers to peel one side of protective film away from one of the thermal pads.

    Edit

  2. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Install the first thermal pad: step 2, image 1 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Install the first thermal pad: step 2, image 2 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Install the first thermal pad: step 2, image 3 of 3

    • Align the exposed side of the thermal pad with the bottom tray section of the heatsink assembly.

    • Lay the thermal pad down so it covers the tray evenly.

    • Use your finger to lightly press down on the thermal pad to adhere it to the surface.

    Edit

  3. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Prepare the second thermal pad: step 3, image 1 of 1

    • Use a pair of tweezers to peel one side of protective film away from the remaining thermal pad.

    Edit

  5. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Install the second thermal pad: step 4, image 1 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Install the second thermal pad: step 4, image 2 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Install the second thermal pad: step 4, image 3 of 3

    • Align the exposed side of the thermal pad with the top section of the heatsink.

    • Lay the thermal pad down so it covers the top section evenly.

    • Use your finger to lightly press down on the thermal pad to adhere it to the surface.

    Edit

  6. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Remove the bottom thermal pad liner: step 5, image 1 of 1

    • Use a pair of tweezers to remove the plastic liner from the thermal pad in the tray.

    • The thermal pad might lift up from the tray as the liner is removed—this is normal. Use your finger to keep the pad in the tray.

    Edit

  7. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Lay the SSD in the tray: step 6, image 1 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Lay the SSD in the tray: step 6, image 2 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Lay the SSD in the tray: step 6, image 3 of 3

    • Lay the M.2 SSD into the tray, the side with the most chips facing up.

    • Make sure the SSD is centered in the tray. The tray shouldn't cover the contacts or the screw cutout.

    Edit

  8. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Remove the top thermal pad liner: step 7, image 1 of 1

    • Use a pair of tweezers to remove the plastic liner from the thermal pad on the heatsink's top section.

    • The thermal pad might lift up from the heatsink as the liner is removed—this is normal. Use your finger to keep the pad in place.

    Edit

  9. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Snap the heatsink in place: step 8, image 1 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Snap the heatsink in place: step 8, image 2 of 3 How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Snap the heatsink in place: step 8, image 3 of 3

    • Align the top heatsink section over the SSD and the tray.

    • Firmly press the two halves together. You'll feel it "snap" into place.

    Edit

  10. How to Install a Heatsink on an M.2 SSD, Check the alignment: step 9, image 1 of 1

    • For the SSD to fit in a desktop PC or a PlayStation 5, the heatsink needs to be centered on the SSD.

    • Make sure that the heatsink is close to the screw cutout but doesn't overhang it.

    • If you're having trouble installing your SSD, you may have to slightly adjust the heatsink's position.

    • Use your fingers to slide the SSD between the two halves of the heatsink assembly until fitment is just right.

    Edit
Conclusion

Take your e-waste to an R2 or e-Stewards certified recycler.

Installation didn’t go as planned? Check out our Computer Hardware Answers community or PlayStation 5 Answers community for troubleshooting help.

2 other people completed this guide.

Author

Carsten Frauenheim

Member since: 03/10/2020

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