Problem with CPU temperature
Problem with CPU temperature
It might be wise to start with a paste test first. One tube appears to warm up slightly near the CPU, suggesting it’s functioning, but the PC shuts down due to overheating before much damage occurs, making it hard to assess the situation. There’s no sound now, so I’ll give it another try tomorrow. I considered a Noctua NH-U12S SE-AM4 U-Type fan—it’s a fan, not liquid, and it would be affordable. Updated January 10, 2023 by Don Holo
You should consider purchasing an air cooler for emergency or troubleshooting needs. Opt for models with multiple mounting brackets (both Intel and AMD) to ensure compatibility if you switch systems later. This avoids the hassle of buying a new cooler or a bracket that only fits one platform. For occasional use, a budget-friendly but functional AIO is sufficient. Air coolers typically include fans, while AIOs have more components, increasing potential failure points and making your system look cluttered.
You're wondering if the current setup is optimal regarding sockets and mounting, or if you believe it wouldn't provide enough cooling for a replacement. You're also considering whether a more advanced solution might be needed, possibly due to future upgrades.
I think NH-U12 series would be sufficient for that CPU. I said all those because the particular model you mentioned "NH-U12S SE-AM4" only comes with AMD mounting bracket in the box, no Intel bracket. The improved design is NH-U12A Keep in mind your mileage may vary than what is shown in that video, since your PC case is basically a mini oven. Well, that depends on you. If you are the "AIO forever" guy, then you just need something that you can use to help you troubleshoot, and something you can use while you get a replacement for the dead AIO. No? If you want the ultimate option, then it's Noctua NH-D15, or if you want a cheaper option that can still go toe-to-toe with NH-D15, Deepcool AK620 i guess.
I confirmed that detail too. The u12s now comes with mounting brackets, but stock availability is limited in my area. I’d prefer to choose based on what’s accessible quickly. For the u12a, the price would roughly double, so I’m open to paying for a suitable alternative if it meets my needs. If the u12s delivers adequate performance, I’d save money and use a permanent fan instead of sticking with brackets. The AIO setup uses water cooling—I’m not a long-term buyer, but it was the only option I received. From what I understand from the video, it seems to perform well. How should I interpret those figures?
AIO uses water cooling as well. I'm just confirming there are two versions of the NH-U12s—one with Intel and AMD options, another only with AMD. That matches what Noctua's site lists. I'm not pushing you to choose the NH-U12a, but I'm noting that U12a is an upgraded version. The video proves it can handle a Ryzen 3600 efficiently; it's a 65W processor, so even the Cooler Master Hyper 212 should suffice.
I collected some thermal paste, reattached the CPU, and applied it after cleaning the previous layer. After moving the pump down in the cabinet, the system started heating up rapidly. When I removed the heatsink to inspect the paste, everything looked correct. The CPU temperature jumped to 95°C instantly, then increased quickly. After checking the BIOS, I saw it drop to around 70°C before rising again and eventually reaching 110°C, causing the system to shut down. I also updated the BIOS.
I'm puzzled because we assumed a cooling issue was the problem, but since the temperature spiked so fast, it seems more like a sensor or software fault. After waiting and booting into BIOS, the temperature stayed just below 70°C before climbing again. It’s unclear what’s actually happening now. Any advice would be helpful—I’m not sure if a new fan will solve this or if I should still consider replacing it.
Additional checks: After roughly 30 minutes and launching directly into BIOS, it began around 38 degrees, climbing steadily by about one degree every few seconds. By around 45 seconds it restarted into Windows and instantly showed 95 degrees, which quickly increased from there. When I shut down and returned to BIOS, the temperature settled at 95 and continued rising. I’m not sure what’s happening, but it makes me doubt whether the cooling system or another factor is responsible for that significant jump, which remains after shutdown.