I3-540 overheating

[jdseim1987]

Hello,
I built a system in March and have been having problems with overheating. The CPU idles at about 35-40c, but gets up to the 90's and shuts down if I stream an HD quality movie on Netflix. My system has the following specs:
Intel Core i3-540 Clarkdale CPU
Stock Cooler
Integrated graphics only
2x2GB GSkill DDR3 1333
ASRock H55M-LE motherboard
SAMSUNG HD502HJ 500GB HDD
ATX computer case with one case fan

Is it likely that I need new thermal paste already? Or could something else be causing this to happen?

 

[wintermint]

Yeah I suggest cleaning out the old thermal compound completely with alcohol and reapply a new layer. Make sure your heatsink is seated properly afterwards too.

 

[simon12]

It could just be very bad case airflow with just 1 fan, if you try it with the side of the case off and it improves alot then thats the problem. If so then get some more case fans, otherwise it must be the cooler installation.

 

[geekapproved]

You would not need thermal paste already, unless you improperly applied it or unless you need to re-attach the fan because it's not attached correctly.

35-40c sounds normal for idle, but 90c? Really? Doesn't make sense.

Are you overclocking the cpu or graphics?

My cpu idles between 35-40c as well, but only reaches 55c under prime 95.

 

[jdseim1987]

Thanks.
I was able to open up my computer today and found that one of the locking clips was broken on the stock CPU cooler. Picked up a new cooler and arctic silver 5. System is idling at 20-25c and hasn't hit 50c yet on Prime95.

 

[jdseim1987]

Best answer selected by jdseim1987.

 

[Mousemonkey]

This topic has been closed by Mousemonkey