Overclocking for normal use

[jereece]

I have a general overclocking question. I assembled a system using an Intel Dual Core 2160 processor and have successfully overclocked it to 3ghz on the stock cooler. Like everyone else I love the speed and the low cost. It's an L2 processor so I understand these need to be kept under 65C. Of all the stress test programs, the Intel Thermal Analysis Tool seems to cook my processor the most. After 15 minutes my processor runs steady around 69 - 72.....too hot. However, I do not plan on using this computer for games. The most intense thing I do is render a video every now and then. Otherwise it's mostly internet and Word. So my question is, do you think it would it be safe long term running this computer at 3ghz? For now I bumped it down to 2.6 (333 X 8) and temps are generally staying in the 30s.

I appreciate the recommendations from those more experienced than me.

Jim

 

[Dunkel]

I would say bump down to 2.6 with stock cooler. I bought a AC 7 Pro cooler and run 3.0GHz for everything @ less than 60C. I paid $22 for my AC 7 Pro and the install was painless.

 

[jereece]

Thanks. I see you are also running the GA-P35-DS3L board, so we have the same board and processor. Initially I ran the COOLER MASTER GeminII but it ran a little hotter than the stock cooler. It may need to be lapped or it may be a problem with the installer (me). This heat sink is so big and heavy that it was very difficult to install the 4 screws in the back and ensure they were tightened evenly so that the surfaces matched well. The stock cooler has springs to balance the unit so pressure is applied evenly. I may look at installing a different cooler or I may just live at 2.6 as this thing flies through everything as is.

I appreciate your help.

Jim

 

[Evilonigiri]

Actually they way you have it is fine. As long as you don't do anything cpu intensive so that it passes 65C, your cpu should last more than 3 years.

I have the GeminII too, and it keeps my 3.15GHz Q6600 at 68C Prime95 load. Maybe your fan it wasn't powerful enough?

 

[jereece]

Did you do anything special to get your GeminII on properly. I had a difficult time because it's so big and heavy. Plus since it does not have springs, you have to pay close attention to how you tighten the mounting nuts.

Thanks,
Jim

 

[Evilonigiri]

No, I just followed the instructions, using the rubber washers. This is an average cooler for an average price.