The Problem:
What makes a computer run hot? (We're going to keep this limited to the personal computer....If you're working with a business class server then chances are that this is nothing new to you.)- Environment. Be aware of where you are using your computer. The external (air) temperature affects the heat of the system. Direct sunlight can dramatically increase the operating temperature of any electronic. As can proximity to a heating vent, a fireplace or space heater, or using the computer in any location south of Atlanta!
- Application. How you are using your computer. Certain computer components (see below) generate more heat than do others. So, it would follow that applications which utilize those specific components are going to create more physical heat than otherwise. Video playback is one of the most common and most accentuated examples. Take special note of the heat generated by extended graphic or high-performance use. If this is the primary mode of operation for your system, than it may be wise to add extra cooling or take special steps to minimize heat.
- Components. What is in your computer? Video cards, Hard Drives, CPU's, Power Supplies, more Hard Drives.... Bigger is not always better when it comes to keeping cool. A faster CPU will generate more heat. Three internal hard drives will generate three-times the heat as just one. Performance-grade components assume performance-grade use. The greater the number and performance of your components, the greater the concern for heat.
The Solution:
- Care. This relates directly to environment. Be careful with your computer. Be kind to it. Don't leave it in the sun. Don't crowd it or choke it - give it some air. Clean the case regularly with compressed air.(WARNING: Vacuuming, and hand-cleaning is strongly cautioned! Static build up will damage internal components!) Be aware of your computer's environment. Use common sense.- Curb your uses. Some hardware may not be able to perform at the levels demanded of them. If your laptop overheats when you attempt to stream an HD movie while editing pictures and playing an online game, then consider scaling back. Your laptop may only work optimally with one or two such tasks at a time.
- Change your hardware. Probably the most specific and "dramatic" solution, you can combat heat by adding (or changing) the cooling systems within your computer case. Extra case fans, liquid cooling systems, aftermarket CPU and GPU coolers...just to name a few. These solutions may be necessary, especially for performance, gaming, or server use, BUT REMEMBER, no number of high-powered, multicolored cooling options are going to substitute for proper care and maintenance.
We sell these parts. We sell compressed air. We clean computers. We can recommend what you need.
If you have any questions about your computer, your computer's environment or temperature, or just about anything else computer related, give us a call! (612) 331-3690, or email us as email@nanosys1.com.
