Please Help Needed: Is This a Safe Temperature?

[AnxiousGuy]

I've been doing a lot of research on this, but I wanted to check with the experts on Tom's Hardware.

This is my question:

I just want to know if my Intel Q9400 will keep working reliably with how I've got it setup at the moment.

I've underclocked the Intel Q9400 from 2.66Ghz to 2.00Ghz to reduce its temperature.

In Windows 10's Task Manager the CPU is only able to reach a maximum of 73%. I've tried running Prime95 and multiple apps at the same time, but no matter what I do it can only make it to 73%...

Temperatures from the Q9400 when it's at about 50% load:

CPU Temperature: 61C
Core 1: 69C
Core 2: 68C
Core 3: 65C
Core 4: 63C

Will I have any problems in the future such as the Q9400 failing and not working at all?

Thank you!

 

[COLGeek]

Those temps seem rather high for a CPU at 50% load. I suspect it is throttling (excessive heat) and is the reason why you can go beyond 73%.

What make/model heatsink are you using to cool the Q9400?

 

[gondo]

Depending on your ambient air temperature, those CPU temps seem high. You should be under 35'C at 50% load and without the underclocking. I would run at stock speeds and test it out. Your heatsink may be improperly installed or in need of a cleanup and proper install of thermal compound.