Windows 7: Question about CPU temps

Hi all,

While I am waiting for delivery of my new CPU cooler, I have a question about the temps my i5 2500k are running at. At idle Real Temp tells me that the temps of all 4 cores are running between 31C to 40C, but when I do something like an AV scan the temps will jump up to between 55C and 70C, but thendrop back fairly quickly to idle temps. My question is this, are those temps high enough for me to be concerned about damaging the CPU? I do have a laptop to use while I wait for the new CPU cooler, but I prefer using my PC at home because I have a 23" LCD which is much easier on these "not so young anymore" eyes.

Thanks, LittleJay

Ello LittleJay
I've no experience with intel myself but from what i've read those temps are ok. Although i would'nt expect an AV scan to raise the temps that much.

Thank for your reply ganjiry. The high end temps come when I do a full AV scan, whereas a quick scan doesn't raise them near as much. But nevertheless, it is why I am replacing the stock cooler with a better after market cooler.

55-70C is OK for an i5, it has a Tjmax of 101C, but you should not get it that hot very much.

Thanks for your reply Britton. The CPU temps only stay hot like that for a few minutes, before returning to the lower end.

You're welcome. A/V software uses a lot of CPU power when they start is what's happening.

Yeah, its same way after I boot up my computer. That raises the temps for a few minutes as well, before settling down. My main concern is that the temporary spikes in temperature aren't causing damage to the CPU.

A short 70C spike is fine and should go away with a new CPU cooler. Intel's stock ones aren't useful for much more than a paperweight. With an after-market cooler you may not go above 40-50C doing the same operations.

OK, thats what I am hoping for. The CPU cooler that I purchased is the Coolermaster Hyper 212 plus, but I just ordered it and with the New Years holiday it may be next week before I get it. Never installed a CPU cooler before, so it should be an interesting experience.

No probs mate It can never be a bad thing to get better cooling.