CPU at 91C and lagging severely at all times

whiskeybacon · 09 Mar 2016

I am at a loss.

A few weeks ago while playing supreme commander I experienced severe cpu lag. I first thought this was due to my SSD getting very full and causing lag from having to write/rewrite constantly. So I wiped the SSD totally and put a brand new copy of windows 7 ultimate on it. I updated all service packs for windows 7 and also downloaded new BIOS and video card drivers. Even at BIOS screen it says my processor temp is 91celcius while doing nothing.

And when I load to windows it is laggy while doing anything and everything. Lag from a few seconds to 30 seconds. I don't know what could be causing my CPU to bad. I ran the windows experience rating tool. My cpu scored a 2.4 When I first built the PC it scored a 7.6 or something Any advice? I have spend long days trying to figure this out and reinstalling everything fresh.

OvenMaster · 09 Mar 2016

Your I7 is overheating and it is throttling down to prevent permanent damage.

Your specs say you custom-built your PC. I would recommend removing and replacing your thermal paste between your heatsink and proc before powering up your rig again. Double-check to make sure your fan is working and your heatsink is attached properly. Blow out all the dust bunnies.

whiskeybacon · 10 Mar 2016

I guess I could reapply thermal paste. I have had about 3 years of trouble free usage so far. I have a water cooling unit on top of the cpu and cleaned out the inside of the computer as well. The case also has side and top fans. I guess it couldn't hurt to put new paste on. I will double check the fan that blows across the radiator as well.

mjf · 10 Mar 2016

You can also try the Intel diagnostics tool.
https://downloadcenter.intel.com/download/19792

When reapplying thermal paste clean CPU and heat sink thoroughly with high purity isopropyl alcohol and link lint free paper (coffee filters are good). Don't apply too much paste and I'd use new paste.

whiskeybacon · 10 Mar 2016

Good tip. I will pick some up tomorrow. You guys are very helpful. Hopefully this will do the trick.

OvenMaster · 10 Mar 2016

whiskeybacon said:

I guess I could reapply thermal paste. I have had about 3 years of trouble free usage so far. I have a water cooling unit on top of the cpu and cleaned out the inside of the computer as well. The case also has side and top fans. I guess it couldn't hurt to put new paste on. I will double check the fan that blows across the radiator as well.

If this is a water-cooled PC rather than air-cooled, then I'd verify that the pump still works, the radiator is clear of all dust, lint, hair, etc., the fan works, and make sure that all tubing fittings don't leak air in order to make sure that the coolant is definitely flowing through the system. I'd double-check the water block mounting and thermal paste. At 91°C the radiator should be too hot to touch. If it's cool, then you're not getting coolant flow through it.

ThrashZone · 10 Mar 2016

Hi,
Agreed does sound like the pump is out

whiskeybacon · 11 Mar 2016

Alright thanks for the advice gentlemen. I bought a new liquid cooling system and installed it. CPU working perfectly again Scored a 7.8 on the windows experience index. A good improvement from the 2.4 it was stuck at LOL. I should've come to these forums 2 weeks ago. Enjoy your weekends.

OvenMaster · 12 Mar 2016

Excellent!