I7 3820 temperature questions

[IggyVanZen]

Hey Guys.
I just built my first computer (using an Intel i7 3820) and I have a few questions.

First of all, what is the best software for monitoring CPU temperatures? I'm currently using Fan Xpert+ (It came with the ASUS motherboard I Got). I gave SpeedFan a go but I was getting conflicting readings. Is there anything better/ more accurate out there? Also if there is, can i alter the fan speed if I feel like it?

Secondly, how hot should my CPU be when Idle. I'm currently getting between about 25 degrees (give or take a few degrees depending on ambient my room temperature). And what is the max temperature my CPU can reach before it gets dangerous?

I'm currently using stock settings on everything however I intend to overclock sooner or later.

Thanks for any help i can get 😀

 

[rolli59]

Any third party can be wrong and none is better than others I use core temp and in it I can set offset which I calibrated to what BIOS was reading on startup. Max temp for your CPU is 66.8°C http://ark.intel.com/products/63698/Intel-Core-i7-3820-Processor-10M-Cache-up-to-3_80-GHz

 

[darth pravus]

66.8 is the average.

The CPU will last up to 100 degrees before it shuts off and still then it wont be damaged.

 

[rolli59]

66.8 is the average.

The CPU will last up to 100 degrees before it shuts off and still then it wont be damaged.

You need to read! http://www.intel.com/support/processors/sb/cs-033342.htm

 

[maestro0428]

I would use Core Temp, I find it to be the best software for checking temps.

 

[jaideep1337]

core temp or even real temp

 

[RetiredChief]

Difference between Tcase and Tj
Click on topic to expand
http://www.intel.com/support/processors/sb/cs-033342.htm

Discussion on Tj and Tcase at anandtech
http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2250147&page=2

SB and IB both start to throttle down around 95 C (individual core temps)
Myself I do not like to go above 70C when runing an intense application. Fot Prime95 which will genetally run hotter my max would be 80C. prime85 will often hit close to 80->85 C with the stock (junk) intel HSF.