Athlon Temps.

ok, so my AMD Athlon XP 2800+ is running at about 123F / 50.5C on average, and peaked (while playing UT2k4 with Firefox running as a load test) at about 147F / 64C.

Is this too hot? I realize that Athlons tend to run hotter than P4's, but I am still concerned...

first of all, what heatsink/fan combo are you using.

i don't remember, but i think it is a volcano either 7 or 9

Make sure you have good airflow in the case. 64C is pretty hot, but still under the max.

i would never use either of those, unless it was a 7+. but they should still provide better temps than that. a good way to improve air flow is to tuck away wires and get rounded cables, or make some yourself. anyone running a 2800 should at least have 2 case fans, if not more

alright. any suggestions/recommendations on cheap PC cooling.
I am thinking I will either need a new case or have to mod current one since there is no place for a front fan.
It has a side fan, however, I doubt that is nearly as good as a good airflow from bottom front of the case to upper back.

I am on a budget, so to speak. I have not number for you, just keep in mind I have limited funds
i.e. water cooling is out, as cool as it would have been


update: my peak cpu temp was 158F I think. It was in the 150's

158F = 70C

well, if your handy with a dremel, i would say rip your case a new asshole. since heat rises, it would be a good idea to put a nice blowhole on the top of your case to suck all the hot air out the top, even though your powersupply already helps with that. last time i did that i used a 92mm fan and my case temp never got above room temp. you should also make sure that any fans you already have are not just some cheap fans with low airflow. and dont forget to direct that air the right way, you want front and side fans blowing in and rear and top fans blowing out

.. Never got above room temperature...

Of course you probably heated the room with your PC... Cause I know if you walk into my room with it off... turn it on, leave and shut the door... in 20-30 minutes, it's warmer in there already even with the Fan and AC on

But I agree, if you want to get your temp down an exhaust fan on the top of the case is the way to go