Page 9: Thermal Characteristics and Issues Under Load
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Thermal Characteristics
Let me start by telling you that this rig IS TEMPERAMENTAL.
I ran most of these tests at full CPU load running multipass CCE reencoding a DVD.
As a baseline I ran some tests with the case cover off the top of the PC, here are the results:
With Case Cover Open: (below is with 2 CPU Fan Settins 2600 or 1400 RPM, first temp is CPU, second temp is Case)
after 5 min at 2600 RPM 37C 21C
after 7 min at 1400 RPM 39C 21C
after 18 min at 1400 RPM 41C 21C
after 25 min at 2600 RPM 38C 21C
after 34 min 2600 RPM 38C 21C
With the cover back on the temperature only rose slightly, which points to decent air flow in an open area:
With Case Covered:
10 min 2500 RPM 44C 26C
20 min 2500 RPM 44C 26C
When I first started I had my DirectTV box wedged between the PC and the receiver which on it’s own generates decent heat.
This was also significantly limiting air flow and capturing the heat in the back.
Before I installed the 80mm fan on the outside of the case as indicated below where I’m pointing the flashlight below I was getting temperature readings as follows:
Enclosed in cabinet:
2 min 2500 RPM 46C 28C
8 min 2500 RPM 48C 30C
10 min 2500 RPM 49C 31C
Now even after removing the heat generating DirectTV box.. I was still seeing temperature of CPU 55C and Case 37C which shortly thereafter resulted in a reboot during the 2nd phase of the encoding process.
Enclosed and running for 2 hrs at 2600 RPM:
1 min 47C 33C
5 min 51C 34C
12 min 51C 35C
15 min 52C 35C
23 min 52C 36C
34 min 53C 37C
I literally had to move the PC over about 4 inches on the right to allow ventillation of the side where the power supply is as shown below. Now feeling the PC’s side to the touch the power supply side is continuously much cooler.
At this point I am able to sustain CPU 51-53C and Case 35C.
Conclusion:
The case itself isnt as much the problem as the location of the case. Make sure the case gets airflow around it! ESPECIALLY IN THE BACK AND SIDES!
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