Computer Hardware
Heatsink
Definition
A heatsink is a passive heat exchanger that transfers the heat generated by an electronic or a mechanical device to a fluid medium, often air or a liquid coolant, where it is dissipated away from the device, thereby allowing regulation of the device's temperature.
Why It Matters
High-performance components like CPUs and GPUs generate a lot of heat. Without a heatsink to draw this heat away, they would quickly overheat and be damaged or shut down. Effective cooling is essential for performance and longevity.
Contextual Example
A CPU cooler consists of a metal heatsink (often with many thin fins to maximize surface area) and a fan. The heatsink draws heat from the CPU, and the fan blows cool air over the fins to dissipate the heat.
Common Misunderstandings
- Heatsinks are often made of highly conductive metals like aluminum or copper.
- Passive heatsinks rely on natural convection, while active heatsinks use a fan to force airflow.