Hot Computer – System Shutdown
May 20, 2009 5:10 pm Basic Skills, Information, Technical, Tips
This may have resulted from the computer’s self-monitoring hardware and software, detecting an abnormally high-temperature situation that can damage the system resulting in a system’s shutdown. It may also be time to get the innards of your computer dusted out for too much dust reduces the efficiency of fans and heat sinks, dust being a very good insulator. The cooling system of the computer normally requires ample heat sinks to properly dissipate heat, clogged with dust, it can result in an over-temperature situation which modern motherboards are designed to protect itself from.
Newer motherboards that use better electronic parts that produce less heat are beginning to come out, using materials that can withstand longer the high temperatures that exist within your computer’s casing. If you have a high-end computer, then your cooling fans may have filters that are designed to block dirt from getting into the system to do so and they may be the ones that are causing the airflow blockage. Get the casing dusted with anti-static air in a can, nope, not that air compressor or vacuum for it may get some moisture inside the casing causing more damage. Blow air into the fans and air passages and you might be surprised at the amount of dirt and grime that may have accumulated all through the years of use. Some experts recommend anti-static cleaners that leave no residue and cleans contacts but be forewarned, they are hazardous to your health and are highly flammable so use them wisely.
Get hold of replacement filters when you buy your computer so you can change them when needed. Still running hotter than you’d like? Add a few fans to the casing to bring in more air and some for the exhaust to get the warm air out. Proper airflow is essential to a healthy computer so check regularly, it may save you a ton inreplacing a crispy motherboard of hard drive.