Computer Heating and Cooling Problems - Keeping it Cool.

A symptom of a possible heat build up in a computer is a repeating error after similar periods of operation. If an error continues to happen after an hour or two hours of operation, it may be caused by excessive heat.

To dissipate the heat generated inside the computer it is necessary to ensure that there is adequate airflow around the case. There should be enough clearance between the case and the ventilation ports to allow air to exit. A computer may not operate properly if it is set too close to a wall, or to drapes or in a close fitting enclosure.

Higher speed processors use more power and, because of that, generate more heat. These processors may require either a heat sink and/or a fan attached to the CPU.

Newer processors require a Heat Pipe which is a tube on the side of the case which allows air to flow directly to the processor from outside the case.

If you decide to use canned air or a vacuum to clean out your case, be careful to let the computer cool off before cleaning it.