CPU overheating, best solution?

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WindFall439

WindFall439

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Sep 8, 2015
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I noticed that the heat of my CPU fluctuated between 70-78°C when running Fallout 4 on High or Ultra High settings. Because of this, there were occasional lags and if the overheating was severe enough, the computer froze completely and had to start over.

I reckon that one of the possible solutions is to upgrade the old Intel E97378-001 fan on top of the processor with the Noctua NH-D15 perhaps? With some preliminary measurements, it should fit in the current Cooler Master Elite 430 (USB 3.0) case without much difficulties. But considering that my current processor is not really that new and powerful anyway, is it better and more economical just to replace the processor altogether with something more recent that can cool itself more efficiently?

Here are my current specs:
Operating System: Windows 8.1 Pro 64-bit
CPU: Intel Core i5 2500 @ 3.30GHz Sandy Bridge 32nm Technology
RAM: 8.00GB Dual-Channel DDR3 @ 665MHz (9-9-9-24)
Motherboard: Gigabyte Technology Co. Ltd. Z68MA-D2H-B3 (Socket 1155)
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 980 Ti (MSI)

Still relatively new to computer hardware so really looking forward to hear your suggestions on any good cooling fans and processors if necessary. Cheers. :p
 
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clutchc

clutchc

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Apr 22, 2009
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The stock cooler should not allow the CPU to get that warm. It should be perfectly satisfactory for that CPU if you have a well-ventilated case. I've built with that case, it should be decent for air flow. Maybe the thermal paste has dried out. Or maybe the cooler has come loose from the board. There are 4 push-pin feet that should be flat on the board. Check to see if one of those has popped loose.
 
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WindFall439

WindFall439

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Sep 8, 2015
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Took out the current CPU fan out and the thermal paste looked powdery, not a good indicator. Reckon that a new thermal paste must be applied soon. But then is it worth it to replace the thermal paste for the current fan or should I just buy a new and more efficient fan instead?
 
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clutchc

clutchc

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Apr 22, 2009
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That's entirely up to you. Since the i5-2500 won't be OC'ed, there's no real need for an aftermarket cooler (unless you live in severely hot climes). With fresh TIM, the old stock cooler should be good as new. If that was the only problem. If you suspect something else wrong with the stock cooler (fan, mtg feet, etc), then by all means get a new cooler.

Here's a guide for installing thermal paste on a your CPU. It is for Arctic Silver 5, but the method applies to all thermal pastes.
http://www.arcticsilver.com/pdf/appmeth/int/vl/intel_app_method_vertical_line_v1.1.pdf
I like to first clean the old stuff off both surfaces with isoproply alcohol. Then apply the new TIM.
 
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