Archived from groups: alt.sys.pc-clone.dell (
More info?)
On Mon, 13 Dec 2004 23:31:53 GMT, "William R. Walsh"
<newsgroups1@saveyourspam.walshcomptech.com> wrote:
>Hi!
>
>> Is there a detriment to running your processor at 100% so long as the
>> cooling fans are running properly and there is adequate air flow?
>
>I've seen some cheap-o systems that couldn't handle this. I think this was
>mainly because the power supply and power supply circuitry on the
>motherboard weren't up to the task. Also, if you have a slightly weak
>system, you may not know it until you try one of these programs.
>
>But other than that, running your processor at 100% utilization all the time
>won't hurt anything. A lot of people do just that with projects like
>Seti@home and Distributed.net. In other words, if your machine has some
>minor fault, doing such a project will usually find it, but it's not going
>to break perfectly functional hardware.
>
>Now...you mention having a laptop in the form of an Inspiron 8500. This
>brings to mind some points of caution when you start a distributed computing
>project for the first time. First, make sure the machine is in a place where
>ventilation is not an issue. Secondly, make sure the computer is capable of
>charging the battery *properly* while running a distributed computing
>project of any sort. Sometimes the power supplies in laptops cannot handle
>all the load of a pegged CPU, a lit display panel and charging the battery.
>Since the battery "doesn't have to charge" for the machine to function, you
>may find that it does not, even if the charging indicator is lit. Just be
>watchful on this...you can ruin a battery this way. Seen it happen.
>
>Finally, be careful with handling the computer after it has been running a
>distributed computing project. Laptops run with a lot more of their "hot"
>parts in closer proximity to the case than desktops do. This could mean that
>portions of the casing will be VERY hot and could possibly cause burns if
>you go to pick the machine up.
>
>> I
>> have an Inspirion 8500 and started playing with SETI@home s/w which
>> punches it up to 100% . The Threadmaster s/w that supposedly tones
>> down the load on the CPU isn't working yet (I don't think I have it
>> configured properly).
>
>That's what the SETI@home client should do...it will keep CPU usage at or
>near 100% all of the time. However, it runs at a low process priority so
>that other programs get time on the CPU before it does.
>
>William
>
Good. I think I will remove the Threadmaster s/w and let it have at
it. I have the laptop on AC power and rarely use the battery unless
I'm on the road in the car. Even then I use an inverter. Runs much
slower on battery power.
The system has been perfect from day one. Not a single problem.
(Knock on wood, hand hitting head)
I do keep things clear of the vent openings and the air coming off the
CPU is not excessive although it is quite warm. I can hear the fan
cycle as needed.
Thanks.