GPU temperature

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Level 1

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GPU temperature

I was just wondering what the acceptable operating temperature is for a GPU in a new MacBook Pro with a NVIDIA GeForce 8600M GT would be. I have been watching mine with iStat while playing games or watching HD video and it will sometimes reach an excess of 188 F (about 86 C). Are these temperatures unusual for this model? Im curious because the graphics card in my G5 never runs that warm, even while editing video with FCP.

I do have smcFan Control installed and keep the fans above 5000 rpm when needed, but it still seems to run so hot. I absolutely love this computer but i cant ever put it on my lap because it would scorch my legs.

If anybody else has this same configuration i would be interested in knowing if this is normal, or if i need to find a more efficient way to cool the thing before i cook my brand new notebook...

Thanks

Message was edited by: kinxuzumaki

MacBook Pro 17" 2.4 Core 2 Duo, Mac OS X (10.5), 2 GB RAM, 160 GB HD, HD Glossy Display

Posted on Nov 4, 2007 11:55 AM

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Answer 1

Benny P.

Level 4

1,245 points

Nov 5, 2007 6:31 AM in response to kinxuzumaki

I'm amsuming you're not overclocking your GPU, correct. I am sure you would have specified.

However, I saw a webpage informing me that an overclocked GPU will run about 93 degrees C. You don't have it overclocked and it's running 7 degrees lower than the overclocked GPU. I think your GPU is running a little warm for your computer's liking.

However, you are playing games and watching HD video, which tends to use a lot of the GPU and it's power. This can make it run warmer than usual. I would advise you to atleast call Apple, and see what they tell you to do. If they say you should get it looked at in an Apple retail store, you should do so. Mine never runs that warm, even when I'm watching HD video.

-benny

Message was edited by: Benny P.

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Answer 2

Nov 5, 2007 9:40 AM in response to kinxuzumaki

I use iStat as well and the highest I've ever seen the GPU hit is 171 while playing doom 3 at max quality. That seems really hot to me. You could almost boil water on your GPU!

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Answer 3

kinxuzumaki Author

Level 1

0 points

Nov 5, 2007 6:55 PM in response to kinxuzumaki

Nope i wasn't overclocking, i did experiment a bit with that on an old ATI Radeon a few years back and proceeded to fry a 300 dollar card...ouch. Long story short, i don't think ill ever make that mistake again, but for now I've come up with a temporary solution. I stacked a few decks of cards under the whole unit in some strategic places to create a bit of airflow underneath, and managed to get the maximum temp down into the 170's. Its a little awkward, but i guess that will have to do until i manage to pick up a decent cooling pad or something.

Glad to know I'm not the only person cooking my GPU while playing Doom 3

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