Hi there. I think I have tracked down my Comp problems to an overheating CPU. Should my 2000XP be hitting 80 Degrees Celcius (according to Sisoft Sandra) during normal operation? While adjusting something in my comp, the heatsink was so hot I got a heat blister from touching it for about 1 second. Any advice on what I should do? I haven't run the system since.
That's waaaaaaay too hot. Suprised the computer even runs at all, I think that the XP will experience thermal death at around 90C. Don't run the system again until you get a better cooling solution. A nice copper cooler and some Artic Silver should do the trick.
Make sure you've got good airflow in the case too (Though that isn't what's causing the cpu temps I'm sure). A good intake fan in the front and outtake at the back, at the least.
No, 80 degrees is overkill. Have you applied the thermal paste correctly? It could just be sisoft sandra that's not working.
I think you have really damaged your CPU. It's pointless keeping that CPU, it may burn or damage even your motherboard. Just go and buy a new one.
Is your HSF (heatsink fan) plugged into your mobo and running? And is the heatsink designed for AthlonXP processors? The reason I ask is that even if there were poor thermal contact between your CPU and heatsink, the heatsink would be no hotter than normal (actually a little cooler as less heat is being dumped into it). If the heatsink is as hot as the CPU, then the heat isn't being dissipated from it for some reason.
I think that the connection for the CPU fan was bad - I reconnected it on another 3 prong connector, and it spins like new. I can't believe this damn thing - I've had crazy problems since I got it. I will make sure to get a new heatsink and fan tho - Volcano should do the trick. Case ventilation isn't a problem, I have 2 on the rear, 1 on the front, and 1 on the side - plenty of airflow.