From what I've seen here, most guys keep the plastic cap on the CPU while sanding. I suggested a few posts back to tape it to the PCB, so it keeps in place and dirt doesn't go near the metal contacts. I think xoqolatl agreed with me on that. Gloves could be an added bouns, if you want to keep your hand clean while sanding. Also, the less sweat the chip gets, the better (because a) it may stink aftwerwards b) sweat is dirt, sort of, and c) sweat is corrosive). I, for one, have very sweaty hands, and it can get very messy when I start using them...

QuietRiot is right, mukmaster, those bubbles scared everyone. I don't even want to know how a C2D ended up in water, it gives me the shivers just thinking about it... Just make sure it is completely dry before you do something extreme to it.

Cheers.

Miguel