Standard MBP operating temperature > 60C - normal?

After using my 2.16GHz, 2GB RAM, 7200rpm 100GB HDD MacBook Pro for 30 minutes or so, just running iTunes, Camino and nothing else, CoreDuoTemp reports that the temperature is (on average) 65C. The laptop is very warm to the touch, especially in the top left. If I really push the machine so that it's running at 2.16GHz for a few minutes then the temperature can reach nearly 80C!

Is this normal for these CoreDuo chips or should I get on the phone to Apple and start asking for a replacement?

And yes, I have "the whine" too but I'm slightly less concerned about that right now.

Thanks in advance.

MacBook Pro Mac OS X (10.4.6)

Posted on Jun 2, 2006 1:18 AM

19 replies

Natsus

Level 1

55 points

Jun 6, 2006 5:14 AM in response to macuser1801

that is not correct. First of all, it is not possible for a CPU to run at 10c unless it's in a freezer.

operating temperature refers to the room temperature. You should not use your laptop in temperatures above 35c or below 10c. Normal CPU temperatures for laptops is 45c-55c and full load at 60c-75c. Infact, the CPU itself is rated to go as high as 100c (though I would not recommend that ever)

Granted the MBP runs hotter than most laptops, but I have not heard of any problems due to heat even at 85c. Personally, my laptop runs at 45c idle and 60c-65c on full load.

Jun 6, 2006 6:42 AM in response to Jerrymyah

Make sure you have both firmware updates, including this one:
http://www.apple.com/support/downloads/macbookproearly2006firmwareupdate101.html

There was apparently a bug in the processor that causes problems with how the temp is reported. See informtation on this page:
http://speedit.increw.org/

lylolylo Author

Level 1

10 points

Jun 6, 2006 6:45 AM in response to NewbieMac

You should install the firmware update (not SMC).
Centrino Duo CPU's have a Bug and it was solved with
the new firmware.

where/how do i get this firmware update? i believe mac os x's automatic updater installed the SMC update on my MBP, but i don't remember seeing anything about a separate firmware update.

clarification required if possible.

Jun 6, 2006 6:45 AM in response to frequent popsicle

The MBP is certainly much hotter than the powerbook it replaced. I have a MBP that is at about 63 degrees C in light use and putting a 1.67 GHz G4 powerbook (1440x960 screen) at full load for 10-15 mins didn't get it as hot as the MBP doing nothing.

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Standard MBP operating temperature > 60C - normal?