Heat sink with heat pipes and fan

A heat sink provides efficient heat transfer from a heat-producing semiconductor device. Heat pipes project from a spreader plate in contact with the device and distribute heat to multiple cooling fins. The fins are arranged for maximum contact with the ambient air. An active fan is internally disposed within the fins, for further cooling efficiency. The heat sink may be permanently affixed to a printed circuit board holding the semiconductor device or the heat sink may be attached and released thereto without need of tools. A base plate maintains spring-like compliance of the printed circuit board while allowing sufficient clamping force on the heat sink to sustain thermal contact with the heat-producing surface during shock-loading.