I really do not want to have to replace the CPU Fan and Heatsink on my AMD 1.4 Ghz system, as it is a lot of work and there is a chance the CPU will become damaged if not done correctly.

The system currently is using an Antec-840 400W Case, with 4 case fans. The standard temp is about 52 degrees on idle, and it can reach 60 degrees on full load, which is extremly hot.

What can I do, besides replacing the HSF, to cool this CPU down. When I remove the case and place a household fan directing air inside, the idle temp goes down to 45 degrees.

Any suggestions are appreciated.

Thanks,
Shawn

1) Keep the case off..

2) How could replacing the fan hurt the CPU? I can see only how it could help it?

:D

Never tried these water cooling stuff but you may want to take a look,

http://www.agaweb.com/coolcpu/build.htm
http://www.overclockers.com/tips77/

Wonder the temperature would fall below 10 degrees with some ice water? :eek: ..

But.. it this serious?

By damaging the CPU, I mean that if something is not done properly when applying the new HSF, it could damage the CPU, and I really do not want to take that risk.

Well, in my opinion, it's not too much of a risk:

1) Take off the case

2) Plug the fan in

If you want to be extra safe, wear a static guard.

I only wish it was that easy *sigh*

This is my current HSF:

http://www.cybercoolerinc.com/p-1600.html

It is really the big problem, as it is a piece of garbage.

By doing this, I would have to scrape the Thermal Compound off the CPU and apply new stuff, as the HSF is all one, it is not two seperate pieces. :(

Stick the case in your freezer. Alternatively, I've heard people have had success with dry ice or liquid nitrogen.

(Disclaimer: success is in the eyes of the beholder)

From your link if thats you HSF then your problem is there.. Its only good up to the 1 GHZ you are running a 1.4 Ghz thats a big jump there 400mhz over what the fan is rated for i would say... I know 400's ran a little hot so slap anther 1000 mhz under and go 1.4 it will smoke.. LOL You will want to find a higher rated fan i think..

Dimensions Heat sink: 70x70x50mm. (w x d x h)
Fan: 50x50x15mm
Bearing Ball bearing
Rated speed 4800 RPM ±10%
Noise level 29.6 dBA
Air flow 17.0 CFM at 4,800 RPM
Current A 0.15 A
Life Hours Ball: 50,000 (hours)
Connector 3 Pin to mainboard
Application Intel: Pentium III 866MHz ~ 1.2GHz (FC-PGA)
AMD: Duron 462 600MHz ~ 1GHz
Thunderbird 600MHz ~ 1GHz
Thermal interface Thermal Grease (pak)


Just my 2 cents... ;)

In removing the fan from the CPU it will not be damaged, the thermal compound will allow the cooler to simply slide off the CPU, simply get a dry tissue and remove the remaining compound from the CPU and go and get a new cooler that appropriate, the new cooler will come with a small packet of silicone compound, simply reapply this to the CPU and voilla your job is done.

I replaced the fam on my CPU about a month ago, the CPU components are all protected against damage, ensure the case remains plugged in but turned off and DO NOT unplug the CPU from the socket while performing the upgrade, this way the CPU and case will remain grounded and there is minimal/no chance you can damage the CPU.

good luck

If u are worried about cracking the core, just use a CoolerGuys Shim - it protects it from cracking.

Also, that temp isn't too bad.

Another tip - try to get some rounded IDE cables to help air circulation in the case.

My P3 866, 2xIBM 60gb's, DVD, CDWriter etc system runs at System = 24degrees, cpu = 27 degrees.
But when I put my Athlon 1.2ghz mobo and cpu in, it runs at system = 35degrees, processor = 38-45 degrees.

I am using a TermoEngine Delta HS/Fan + Arctic SilverII thermal compound, 2 front fans, 1 rear fan.

Card Coolers are shite, so ignore them.

--James

I 2nd the shim suggestion It will help ya from cracking the core. Then pick one the of the many great heatsinks out their.If you dont mind noise then a Thermalrigh SK6 with a delta fan will keep that sucker cool. Even with the quiter Sunon fan it will still do a great job keep your CPU cool

Just take your time and be carefull and you should have no problems I change my heatsinks probably 3-4 times a week(For reviews) and have yet to crack and cores on my Dual P!!! or my Tbird