Error indicating CPU overheating.
Error indicating CPU overheating.
You're experiencing frequent crashes accompanied by CPU temperature alerts, especially during games like Halo Infinite and Fortnite. The system runs an AMD 5600X GTX 1080 and GTX 1650 with MSI B550 components. Recent upgrades included fans that reduced temps but didn't eliminate the issue. Monitoring tools show temperatures often peak around 85°C, averaging near 80°C. Despite using VSync, the crashes persist. The PC is mainly used for streaming and simple games, with no major problems during those tasks. You're unsure if the readings are accurate or if hardware is failing. A different build could help isolate the problem.
Two key points to consider. First, your top fans should be spinning fast, like this... The idea is that drawing air in might actually block the front intake fan, so it’s better to prioritize moving air around first. I’d also think about adding a second front intake if you can. The 5600X has only a 65W chip, but it handles heat well and could get warmer during overclocking, especially if it’s in place. You might need to reapply thermal paste later. I suggest swapping the top fans first—they should be easy to reverse. Check this guide for more details: https://www.howtogeek.com/303078/HOW-TO-...D-COOLING/
A few quick points to consider: Are there any adjustments made to your CPU's clock speed? It might be helpful to verify if your cooling system is correctly installed. Poor contact between the copper base and the CPU can lead to elevated temperatures, often due to inadequate or uneven thermal paste. I recommend reapplying paste or switching to a cooler with a lower profile, such as one from Noctua.
The stock cooling isn’t sufficient during summer, so consider other CPU coolers. Turn off PBO2 or apply curve optimization and set the lowest voltage for PBO. I have a quirky suggestion that might stir up dust, but it could be effective—switch the small grey fans to intake mode, adjust the PSU to exhaust function, and reverse the bottom fans so they blow out.
Thanks for your assistance. I'll explore a few of these suggestions. Unfortunately, there isn't a front intake since it's an HTPC setup, which would be ideal, but I might be able to adjust things. I've already attempted to reapply the thermal paste and will try again. I've been researching new coolers and several Noctua options seem suitable for this situation. It's currently summer in Phoenix, so everything is working harder than usual. I'm considering a tower cooler to help direct airflow more effectively, similar to the NH-L12 design that pushes air through the heat sink. Another issue is the solid top cover blocking exhaust fans. Thanks again—I'll give it a shot and update you on the results.
I received an update switching the top intakes to exhaust and re-pasting the CPU. It appears to have improved performance, with temperatures ranging from 65°C to 75°C across different conditions, reaching a peak during load times which is normal. Thank you for your assistance.