Is my processor running too hot?

Question

I'm running a Macbook with Intel Core 2 Duo 2.26Ghz, 4GB RAM, & Nvidia Geforce 9400m(integrated chip).
My comp is plugged in & fully charged, connected to a 2nd display, downloading a large file, and I'm running about 6 or 7 programs-Safri, Transmission(bitTorrent client), Hardware Monitor, Numbers(Excel), iTunes, Finder, & Textedit. The CPU usage is staying around 50% and the memory has 40mb free.
But the CPU temps were soaring up to 83 degrees Celsius(the normal temp is like 65-76 degrees C). Is it safe for the CPU to reach this high of a temperature? Should I run less programs?

Answer 1

Open up the case and clean the dust inside. Too much dust clogging inside the case may seriously affect the cooling of the computer.



Another option is to replace the CPU fan & heatsink with a better high-performance fan & heatsink. Don't forget to apply a layer of high-performance thermal compound on the CPU before installing the heatsink & fan.

Answer 2

My wife has the same PC setup. I believe that you are running a Prescott? Those run hot to begin with, real hot! I would go with an after market CPU Fan/Heatsink like I did for her. I went with a Zalman. It had dropped the temperature down considerably, but still ran a little hot. You can also try to reapply some thermal paste. Try Artic Silver. Good luck! *edit spelling error

Answer 3

83+ is not so good for a macbook. Make sure u have good ventilation under ur mac. if it gets too hot the some of the components could be fried.

Answer 4

that's pretty high, i would check your heat sink or better yet replace your thermal paste with some AS5. The max safe temperature is around 85C so if you go higher your're in danger.

Answer 5

its too hot. get a new cpu cooler and thermal gel. or underclock the computer. it depends weather or not you have money