HiShould I worry about my CPU temperature reaching 72C (with my set up) while using the MSF2004? Normal idle temperatures are about 51CStelios

"Should I worry about my CPU temperature reaching 72C"Yes, you should be very worried. 72C is way too high. I wouldn't even allow any of my systems to idle at 51C.Check to make sure you don't have alot of dust build up around your CPU cooler. Also, check for dust around the rest of the system. This is what you don't want to see:http://forums.avsim.net/user_files/108630.jpgGreg

Greg what processor are you using? I have installed the Silent Towerhttp://www.systemcooling.com/tt_tower-01.htmlhoping that it will keep the temp down. On the other hand people tell me that you should expect these temperatures with a P4 3.2Ghz with HT.Stelios

Yes, definitely. Sooner or later the CPU will give up on you. I wouldn't be as conservative as to say you must stay below 51 at idle. I have ran a lot of machines at 60 when under full load and they kept working well and stable for 2-3 years. But this is as far as it should go if you are concerned about lifetime and stability.Alex

The "Prescott" P4's consume unlikely amounts of power and run hot enough to induce nuclear fusion.That said, 72C seems a bit on the high side. :(I'd try to reduce that temp by 10C or so. 72C will definitely reduce the life span of the CPU but I wouldn't expect it to die not until it's very outdated anyway.-Check for dust in the fan and between the fins of the heatsink. Make sure the fan can be turned manually without resistance. Do the same with any case fans you may have.-Does your BIOS allow you to control fan speed? Maybe it's set to Low?-Thermal transfer could be a problem. Are you using good thermal compound or some worthless thermal pad that came with the heatsink?-Maybe you need to install additional case fans to improve airflow and reduce ambient temp in the case. If the CPU runs much cooler when using the computer without the cover, you probably do.

Yes, you should worry!You can check on http://processorfinder.intel.com/ what the max temperature is for your processor. Generally, these are somewhere between 68C and 78C. Although some have reached over 100C before burning up, I wouldn't recommend it. I've read somewhere that the latest Intel CPU's have a safety mechanism that slows down the processor when overheating, which kicks in at around 70C.It may be that your processorcooler isn't mounted correctly. You shouldn't be able to touch it without burning your fingers. If you can, than it is doesn't make a good contact with the CPU and is not removing the heat. Also, check that the heat is not trapped inside the case.