Thermal paste application for EPYC - how do you do it and does the pattern make a difference

[Kneelbeforezod]

So for AMD TR from what I understand recommends the Five Dot method for thermal paste application - this was mentioned in a GamersNexus Video. But I am curious what folks are doing for their epyc builds - dots, an x or what.....I'll be using the Noctua NH-U14S TR4-SP3. And does the pattern really make a difference as long there is enough?

 

[ari2asem]

for TR and Epyc i did the same. 6 big dots along 4 sides (4 in the corners and 2 in the middle of longer side) and 6 small dots between the bigger ones

 

[Rock]

Epyc I use the 5 dot method.
I tested by applying and running for a week, then pull to see coverage. I had complete coverage and insignificant overflow.