How to Lap Your CPU/Processor for a Cheap Cooling Performance Upgrade

"Lapping" a CPU involves removing the IHS (integrated heat sink) from the processor. Due to manufacturing variations, the IHS on processors may be slightly concave or convex. This results in an uneven contact with the heat sink which degrades cooling by a moderate margin. If one is an enthusiast who loves to overclock, lapping the processor is a very good idea. Not only is it the cheapest cooling upgrade one can perform, it is also the most beneficial when looking at the price/performance ratio. The extra cooling may even allows one to overclock the processor further because of the increased cooling.