Glen, the thermometer is useful in checking your software for accuracy. In Steve’s case how do you know the 92 degrees was accurate? Maybe it's actually only 50 degrees. I can't tell you the number of times that software temperature measurements in various devices (much more expensive than a PC) were way off in reporting temperatures.

Well, the computer restarted on its own. I went into BIOS and it said 105/93. I didn't check it with the BIOS after I installed my desk fan, but the MSI probe said it went up to 83 while I rendered out my project.

I didn't have auto-shutdown enabled on the BIOS for shutting down when the processors reach a certain temperature, because the highest setting is 75 and mine go over that... the processors shut themselves down that time.

I'm actually getting a new P4 3.2 Ghz system (that purchase was coming anyway). It's my hope that when I take out some of the components from my current system (like the second hard drive, soundcard, etc) that it will bring down the temperature somewhat and improve airflow.... enough for me to use this as a render node for Lightwave 3D. If not, I may have to look into under clocking the processors.

Thanks for all of the tips everyone.

Hi Steve,

Had the same problems with my Intel P4 3.2@800 HT - bought an expensive Zalman 7000 all copper - didn't help. Ended up using a watercooling solution from http://www.asetek.dk - now my highest temp reading is 48 after hours of 100% CPU load.

// Lazze