You can find it precut on AliExpress. It's cheap enough to drive away the counterfeiters.
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807918555500.html
https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256807424869501.html
This ptm definitely acts like the real deal, i would buy again. The price has gone up a little bit, maybe due to some trade problems, but even then, it's a good deal. The 80x160mm will last me a long time. Pro tip: this pad will melt, and needs some burn-in, so if it tears, do not worry. You can still press it into place. Be careful to not touch the pad with your fingers, use gloves or be careful with the plastics.
When you place it on a cpu, gpu, or other ic, you should remove one side, press it onto the surface, then run your finger or a probe along the edges to tear and stick the pad onto it. It should stick, then continue as usual.
That's how you should install it. Make sure to press it well so it will stick on the CPU/GPU and then you can peel off the top plastic film.
I have some bought cause I saw it on a sale for next to nothing. I'll probably use when it's time to repaste my CPU, or replace my AIO cooler. Whichever comes first I guess.
Honest question: I’ve never reposted any cpu ever. Now I don’t run high end shit just session grade shit. I don’t ever pull the processor or the fan unless it’s dead. Even then I just scrape off the paste and reapply because I’m fucking lazy. The machine has continued to run for years. Again not the blazing heat generators that some are, but is it needed in most cases?
Depends on your cooler (or really more the socket which determines the amount of pressure the cooler puts in the IHS) and the paste you use. Some thermal paste, especially high performance ones, are more vicious. Over time with the pressure from the cooler it'll "pump out" as they call it.
Even if that doesn't happen to you, paste will dry out and reduce its effectiveness. Neither of these are a concern with PTM phase change pads. Those things will last for years.
I'd look to replace thermal paste like every 2-3 years or so, or if you notice your cpu temps climbing.