Console Technician Uncovers Innovative Grooved Heatsink Design in PS5 Pro to Prevent Solder Paste Leaks

Sony’s latest release, the PlayStation 5 Pro, has surprised everyone with a subtle yet significant update in its heatsink design. Spotted by the well-known console repair channel TronicsFix on YouTube, the PS5 Pro now features a heatsink with a distinctive rectangular spiral pattern, rather than being perfectly smooth.

In a video titled “The PS5 Pro Upgrade No One Is Talking About,” TronicsFix explores this unexpected design choice. According to them, the textured pattern is likely a clever move to minimize the formation of dry spots and prevent surface oxidation, issues often associated with the migration of liquid metal thermal interface material over the heatsink. Additionally, this surface design might increase the contact area, albeit slightly.

Anyone who’s spread liquid metal knows it tends to pool and can flow into areas it shouldn’t, unlike traditional thermal pastes. To prevent this conductive material from causing damage to other components, systems using liquid metal typically employ a seal or barrier around the heatsink.

Additionally, TronicsFix suggests that the problem with liquid metal movement is more pronounced in PlayStations used in a vertical setup. Given their hands-on experience with numerous PS5 repairs and maintenance, their insights are likely close to reality.

The decision to use these grooves on the heatsink part interfacing with the AMD APU is intriguing, as it somewhat deviates from traditional cooling practices. Enthusiasts and overclockers often aim for a mirror-like surface on processors for optimal performance. However, with liquid metal changing the game, Sony probably tested this heatsink design against the conventional smooth variant and saw enough benefits to make the switch.

Given the PS5 Pro’s enhanced processing capabilities, particularly the upgraded GPU, it’s reasonable to assume that features like these grooves play a key role in warding off thermal throttling.

Officially launched in early September, the PS5 Pro hit the market only recently. Experts and fans alike are still delving into its innovations, but much of its technical prowess was revealed in a live stream by lead architect Mark Cerny. As we continue to explore its design, the new PS5 Pro is shaping up to be a fascinating step forward in gaming technology.