CPU is overheating!

January 2017

Overheating of the CPU caused by a temperature problem is definitely a bad sign as it can destroy the processor and can cause instabilities in the hardware of the system. This can lead to it rebooting as well. The temperature of the processor depends on the brand and model type and one should be aware of it to avoid inadvertent problems. This can be done several ways, like accessing BIOS set up or through software like CoreTemp. To avoid overheating of the CPU due to the temperature problems, it is imperative to take suitable measures to cool down both the processor and the PC.

If your CPU is overheating, it can cause the computer to reboot (instable system) and permanently damage your hardware.
To regulate the temperature of your processor, you can do the following:
  • Improve air exchange in the case by reorganizing the cables and hardware to maximize air circulation
  • Ensure that fresh air from outside is oriented toward components with high temperatures (CPU, graphics card, etc.).
  • Ensure that the air from the hot components is vented outside the case.
  • Remove the dust accumulated in the case
  • Equip your PC with a Ventirad (Heat sink + Fan)

Use a software tool such as CPU Idle

How to check the temperature of your processor?

There are several ways to check the temperature of the CPU:

Temperatures values

When talking about CPU temperatures, we usually refer to:
  • The TJ (Junction temperature)- the internal temperature
  • T Case (chassis temperature) which lies between a range of 10 to 20°, below the TJ

Intel Processors

The maximum temperature of an Intel processor depends on the model but it normally range from 60-65 °C for the Pentium 4, 50-65 °C for the Core models and 70 °C for the Nehalem generation (i3/i5/i7 ). The processors of laptops support up to 100 °C approximately.

AMD processors

The maximum operating temperature of an AMD processor is determined by the trade reference (OPN) of this processor. The OPN is on top of the processor. Example:
  • A X1800 D M S 3 C
This temperature is indicated by the third character from the right of the OPN. This character can take the values S, T or V.
These characters identify the maximum temperature of use of the AMD Athlon (TM) XP: V = 85 º C, T = 90 º C, S = 95 º C.
For the AMD Athlon 64, Athlon 64 X2 (all sockets and all frequencies) and Phenom the optimal temperature is 60 ° C
  • FX 8150 et 8120 : 61°C
  • Athlon II X4 635 : 71°C


Note that

  • The temperature of a system or a processor depends heavily on the characteristics of the system and its components. The "normal" temperature varies from one system to another, depending on its components.
  • Among the variables affecting the use temperature of the system: the size of the chassis, the ventilation system, installed components, the power of the processor, the thermal insulating material used, the power supply, supply voltage, workload and ambient temperature.
  • The typical value returned by the BIOS or analysis software should be within a range of 60 and 65 ºC.

The temperature reported by the BIOS differ from the current CPU temperature.
We have already talked about the difference between Tj and Tcase.
The temperature of the cores (given in Tj) and the temperature of the chassis (in Tcase) are recorded by a sensor on the motherboard (close to the processor ) and therefore differs slightly from the true T Case value.
Moreover, the reported temperature is affected by the accuracy of the temperature sensor.

How to cool down your PC?

To cool down your processor, there are several solutions:
  • Improve the exchange of air (active cooling using fans):
  • Make sure that fresh air always flow in the direction of the components having the highest temperatures (CPU, graphics card, etc..), For example here's how the air flow should be (see image below)
  • Make sure that the air from the hot components is vented off the chassis.

  • Use a Ventirad (Fan + Heater), it is more efficient, but quite noisy!
  • Regularly clean the CPU cooler and the radiator of the the graphics card (at least once a year). Remove the dust accumulated in these two elements using a can of compressed air.
  • Use a tool such as CPU idle
  • Switch to watercooling: this solution is much more expensive and complex, but more efficient, especially if you have overclocked your PC.
  • You'll find different cooling solutions in this FAQ:Methods of cooling your PC

Related FAQ

Laptop is overheating: What can be done?


Published by jak58. Latest update on September 30, 2013 at 09:49 AM by jak58.
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