Hot CPU socket?
Hot CPU socket?
Hey there, I've been trying to push my 8350 up to 4.5 ghz at 1.4065v, but it keeps failing. The socket temperature climbs to 76°C and the CPU throttles when I run Prime95. I decided to lower it back to 4ghz with turbo enabled and turned off all power-saving features, setting the voltage to 1.375. Still, at 4ghz the temperature spikes in Prime95—could it be a motherboard issue? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
The device being discussed is a budget cooler, and the question asks about temperature monitoring tools.
Prime95 and IBT aren't the most realistic stress testers. They rely on instructions that create more heat. Consider using OCCT instead, which employs more typical instructions. The quality of your overclocking depends largely on luck when selecting a good chip. The impressive figures you see usually come from those with superior chips. Those using dog chips will remain quiet. Your motherboard performs well for overclocking. If you need further improvement, a cooler like the Noctua NH-U14c could be a better choice.
geofelt :
Prime95 and IBT aren't the most realistic stress testers. They rely on instructions that create more heat.
Consider trying OCCT instead, which uses more typical commands.
Your ability to overclock the FX-8350 depends largely on luck in selecting a suitable chip.
The high figures you see are likely from users with better chips.
Those using dog chips will remain quiet.
Your motherboard performs well for overclocking.
If you need further improvement, a cooler like the Noctua NH-U14c could be more effective.
Using a higher-quality CPU cooler might help lower socket temperatures, since current socket temps appear to be the main concern.
I've heard in the FX-8xxx line that blowing air on the rear of the motherboard socket or across the base of the cooler can improve temperatures. It might not be practical, and some models may not work with the original cooler. I've personally tried holding a 120mm fan, and the changes are noticeable. I'm still looking for a suitable way to attach a fan to these areas.
Flamefly:
I've heard from the FX-8xxx series that blowing a fan on the rear of the motherboard socket—or across the base of the cooler—can make a noticeable difference in socket temperatures. I've personally tested it by holding a 120mm fan, and the changes are quite apparent. However, I'm still searching for a suitable mounting method for a fan in that spot, especially since I need something thin.
I've realized my socket is around 15°C hotter than my core temperatures, which makes sense given the high load at 4.5GHz and a core temp of 60°C. When throttling to 70°C under stress, my CPU would likely slow down. If I were using an NH-D15 fan behind the motherboard, I could probably reach 4.7GHz while keeping core temps low around 50°C during stress tests, helping to maintain a cooler socket temperature.
I own the 212 Evo with an A8-7650K 3.3Ghz, overclocked to 4.2Ghz at 1.4v. After using Prime 95, it reached a maximum of 51°C, while the stock cooler allowed temperatures between 65°C and 70°C previously. It’s possible there’s a problem with the heatsink or the thermal paste between the cooler and CPU. (Though I don’t own an FX CPU, any advice would be welcome.)
🙂
Was this build done from scratch or was it a pre-assembled unit?
I have the 212 Evo (with an A8-7650K 3.3Ghz) overclocked to 4.2Ghz @ 1.4v.
After using Prime 95, I reached a temperature of 51C, whereas before that I was able to maintain up to 65C-70C with the stock cooler.
I might be mistaken, but it looks like there could be a problem with the heatsink or the thermal paste between the cooler and CPU, which might be causing it to run so hot.
(Though I don’t own an FX CPU, you mentioned any help would be appreciated.)
🙂
Did you assemble it yourself or did it come pre-built?
I assembled it with a friend two years ago, but about seven months ago I upgraded from a 970 chipset motherboard to a 990. This involved removing the CPU cooler, turning it on and off, but I’m sure that was the right approach. I cleaned the old thermal paste using 97% isopropyl alcohol and applied a small amount of arctic silver paste to the CPU center, then reinstalled the cooler with the new motherboard.
Can't criticize your actions.
It might make sense to switch the cooler next.
A quick follow-up: Were your temperatures consistently high over the entire 7 months after the last install, or did they gradually increase?
If I faced the same situation, I’d test another cooler, measure the temps, and if nothing changes, return it for a refund.
If the new cooler does help, you’ll avoid buying one again.
Before committing fully, consider reapplying the Thermal Paste just to be safe.
If that works, you’ll skip the purchase entirely.
The rear fan is bulky but still effective, particularly for socket temperatures—worth a try.
These adjustments only require time and a small expense; they’re worth testing before opting for the Noctua upgrade.
If budget isn’t a concern, go ahead with the upgrade and match it to the motherboard.
Good luck!
(P.S.: For UK buyers, ebuyer offers reliable options—my preferred choice for components.)