1. Prepare the first thermal pads

The heat sink 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.

2. Install the first thermal pads

Align the exposed side of the thermal pad with the bottom tray section of the heat sink 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.

3. Prepare the second thermal pads

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

4. Install the second thermal pads

Align the exposed side of the thermal pad with the top section of the heat sink, 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.

5. Remove the bottom thermal pads liner

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.

6. Lay the SSD in the tray

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.

7. Remove the top thermal pads liner

Use a pair of tweezers to remove the plastic liner from the thermal pad on the heat sink's top section. The thermal pad might lift up from the heat sink as the liner is removed—this is normal, use your finger to keep the pad in place.

8. Snap the heat sink in place

Align the top heat sink section over the SSD and the tray, firmly press the two halves together, you will feel it "snap" into place.

9. Check the alignment

The heat sink needs to be centered on the SSD, make sure that the heat sink is close to the screw cutout but doesn't overhang it, if you having trouble installing your SSD, you may have to slightly adjust the heat sink's position. Use your fingers to slide the SSD between the two halves of the heat sink assembly until fitment is just right.

AOK recommends installing thermal pads, because M.2 SSD will generate high temperatures due to high-speed operation due to their performance. Thermal pads can effectively share the temperature and heat dissipation. If they are not pasted, the performance will be weak, such as transferring the G file will slow down very slowly when it is halfway through, and it will also affect the lifespan. Note that the installation process may vary slightly depending on the specific M.2 SSD and motherboard that you are using. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and follow any specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

If you would like to learn more about AOK performance thermal materials, please visit our website at www.aok-technologies.com.