How to Check CPU Temperature: 12 Steps

Table of contents:

2024 Author: Samantha Chapman | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 09:13

Overheating is one of the worst enemies of computers. Heat management is critical to keeping your system healthy. If your computer gets too hot, it could cause errors, performance drops and unexpected shutdowns. One of the most important components of a PC is the processor (CPU), so you'll always want to make sure it's at the right temperature. Follow this guide to keep it under control.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Using the BIOS

Step 1. Restart your computer

Your BIOS is the menu that allows you to adjust your computer's basic settings. Most BIOS interfaces have a built-in hardware monitor, which allows you to control the temperature. You will be able to enter the BIOS as soon as the computer turns on.

If your computer has Windows 8, open the Power menu and hold down the Shift key as you click Restart. This will start your computer in Advanced Boot Mode, where you can open the motherboard settings (UEFI) from the Troubleshooting menu

Step 2. Press the BIOS key

The key varies according to your hardware manufacturer. The keys typically are F2, F10 and Del. The correct key will be indicated on the manufacturer logo screen.

If you don't press the key in time, your computer will boot normally and you will have to try again

Step 3. Find the Hardware Monitor

Different BIOS programs will have different indications for this entry. Some of the more common definitions are H / W Monitor, Status, PC Health, etc.

Step 4. Check the temperature of your CPU

The temperature limit of your CPU varies by model, but generally this value should be below 75 ° C. Check your CPU documentation to determine the exact critical temperature.

Check other temperatures. When you check the temperature of your CPU, it also checks the status of the rest of the system. Most hardware monitors will also report the motherboard temperature, the graphics card temperature, and in some cases the ambient temperature inside the case

Part 2 of 3: Using a Program

Step 1. Install a hardware control program

Most motherboards offer hardware control programs included on the installation disc or available on their websites. You can also download free programs that can read the BIOS temperature measurements and report them. The most popular programs include:

Open Hardware Monitor
Speedfan
Core Temp
HWMonitor
Real Temp

Step 2. Run the program

When you've downloaded and installed your chosen program, open it to get a temperature reading of your computer. Most programs will show all temperature measurements, as well as fan speeds and voltage measurements. Compare them to the recommended levels in your system documentation.

Some programs may require special access to your computer's settings to work, and will ask you for confirmation

Part 3 of 3: Lower the CPU Temperature

Step 1. Let your computer breathe

Make sure none of the fans or vents are blocked. Open your computer and remove the dust using compressed air. If air cannot flow over the components, heat will begin to build up.

Step 2. Apply a new thermal paste

Thermal paste is what conducts heat from the CPU to the heatsinks. Over time, the thermal paste degrades. There are different opinions on how often the thermal paste should be replaced, but if you notice temperatures that are higher than normal, you can try this simple remedy first.

Don't use too much thermal paste, as it may insulate the CPU instead of conducting heat. The best way to apply it is to use a small drop evenly distributed over the CPU

Install a CPU Cooler in an AMD Motherboard Step 4

Step 3. Replace the heatsink

If your CPU is always overheating, your heatsink and fan may no longer be effective. Find a new heatsink and fan combination that fits your case and moves more air than your existing setup. Larger fans can make more noise.

Step 4. Add more fans

If there isn't good air circulation inside your computer, you may need to install multiple fans to move the air properly. Fresh air should be drawn in from the top and front of the computer, and warm air should be expelled from the back.

Step 5. Replace the hardware components

Older components have a tendency to overheat after long-term use, and in some cases there is no other option than to replace them. If you need to replace your motherboard or CPU, you should consider rebuilding your entire system, because you will still have to reassemble everything.

Step 6. Reduce the CPU frequency

Read

How to Add Temperature on Snapchat: 6 Steps

This article explains how to activate and add the temperature filter to your snaps. Steps Step 1. Open Snapchat If prompted, enter your username and password, then tap "Sign In". Step 2. Tap the Capture button, which is the white circle at the bottom of the camera screen Step 3.

3 Ways to Check the Water Temperature without a Thermometer

It may happen sooner or later that you have to roughly determine the temperature of the water and not have a waterproof thermometer. You can evaluate it by looking for signs that the liquid is almost boiling or freezing. You can also use your hand or elbow to test the heat level;

How to Check the Internal Temperature of Meat

A meat thermometer is used to check the internal temperature of roasts, steaks, braised meats (and more) during cooking, in order to be sure that all dangerous bacteria have been killed by the heat without, at the same time, overcooking the meat.

How to Increase Body Temperature: 11 Steps

Knowing how to raise your body temperature may come in handy in some cases - for example, if you are predisposed to having it quite low or are caring for someone with hypothermia. The right foods and drinks, exercise and clothing can help you in your quest.

3 Ways to Check Computer Temperature

If your computer overheats, it could run into serious stability problems and even damage some hardware. If you suspect that the cooling system is not working properly, checking the temperature is the first step to diagnosing and fixing the problem.