High CPU temperatures

Pepi12

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Apr 22, 2011
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I've got a Phenom II 955 X4 3.2ghz for about two years, and which is, according to speedfan idling at 60 C. I heard that this one has a terrible stock cooler, but still, 60C? Isn't that a bit too much? And what is interesting I never had any problems, that is, the PC hasn't shut down even when temperatures started going up over 70 C at heavy load. Could it be that the sensors are reporting false temps?

I already changed thermal paste, to no effect and I am thinking about buying a aftermarket cooler. The thing is, is it really about the cooler or the problem lies somewhere else?
 

clutchc

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If your PhIIX4 955 is the Black Edition, the max op temps should be 55C-62C.
http://www.cpu-world.com/CPUs/K10/AMD-Phenom%20II%20X4%20955%20Black%20Edition%20-%20HDZ955FBK4DGI%20%28HDZ955FBGIBOX%29.html
It will work fine if it goes higher for short periods, but I wouldn't run it above 62C extensively.
Try running Core Temp and see how it compares with SF. Remember, the Phenoms only have a single sensor, so all 4 cores will read the same.
http://www.alcpu.com/CoreTemp/

I had 4 different Phenom II X2/X4 BEs and all ran warm with their stock cooler. Prime95 would always take them to the max+ if left run long enough.
 

Pepi12

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Apr 22, 2011
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Core temp reports similar readings to speedfan, they are even a C or two higher. I guess I'll have to buy a aftermarket cooler then.
 

kyraiki

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Does your stock fan say 'cooler master' on it? If its the one they sent out before switching, then yeah its piece of junk.
 

clutchc

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If the stock cooler is the one with 2 heat pipes per side, it should be fine if you don't over clock. Noisy, but fine. I wonder if you have sufficient ventilation in the case... Inlet and exhaust fans at least?

But, yes, an aftermarket cooler would be an improvement, as long as it isn't one designed like the stock cooler. I bought this one on sale for a budget build I'm doing (PHII X4 965): http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B [...] 01_s00_i00
It clips right on the AM3 retention bracket. Easy install. I've used Freezer 7s on several builds, and it does a great job. If you're a Prime member, you can get it in 2 days, free shipping.
 

kyraiki

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I second this. From what I have read its a simple install compared to, say, the Hyper 212+.

Another good cooler is the Arctic Freezer A30. It is made specifically for AMD systems and allows you to position it how you want it. Here's a link: http://www.amazon.com/Arctic-Cooling-Double-Sided-Heatpipes-UCACO-FA30001-GB/dp/B006TCSH4Y/ref=sr_1_2?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1339127368&sr=1-2

Happy hunting. :)