Windows 7 - Cool N Quiet Etc

Is running "CPU Smart Fan Control" "System Smart Fan Control" and AMD Cool N quiet worth it?

I still have the stock fan on my AMD 5200 2.7ghz, if i have the cpu fan running at the full speed all the time, shall that keep my cpu temp down a good bit and can running my cpu fan at full speed ware it down faster??????? Does having CPU Smart Fan Control on help this?

I never trust stock "cooling"... especially when overclocking. Get an aftermarket fan/heatshink with PWM if your mobo supports it. These are quiet, efficient, and inexpensive insurance for your CPU!

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My understanding is "smart fan control" makes it possible to slow down or speed up the fan in response to CPU temperature. As long as it works properly it will run the fan at maximum speed when needed and keep the system quieter when its' not. The way to tell if you need additional cooling is to run a CPU temp utility so you can see the temp in real time. I would also check the BIOS for fan failure and overheat warning options and if you have them turn them ON. Note also that a clean case makes for a cooler system. Clean the fans and heat-sinks regularly.

rmw:

If your cpu fan header on mobo is 4 pin, it is a "smart" fan header, meaning yes it should slow down when your cpu is not at a high load or temp.

The stock fans are just adequate... After all the manufacturers love it when a cpu overheats and cooks just after warranty expires. I'd spend $20 or so and just upgrade to a quality heatsink with a nice big, quiet, air moving fan!

I have never had a problem with stock cooling, or I should say very little.

The only, only suggestion I make with stock cooling,, is save the money on the upgraded heat sinks and fans and spend a few dollars on Arctic Silver. That alone will provide a much cheaper and better solution. Arctic Silver alone will do what a bigger heatsink and fan will do with only stock thermal paste that they normally come with.

But that also depends on the company you got your system from, if they come with the original Intel or AMD stock cooling, a bit of Arctic Silver will be all that is needed.

However, if you are overclocking. Yes, invest in the hardware to cool the system and use Arctic Silver.

I agree on artic silver... THE BEST!

But my theory is heat kills electronics... so I'd invest in a $20-30 aftermarket super cooler AND get arctic silver themal paste... years from now, you will be happy you did!

I am overclocked 20% running 24/7... ZERO issues. I run a XIGMATEK HDT-S1283 120mm Rifle CPU Cooler lapped and using Arctic Silver. 2.83 GHz stock... maxed at 3.6 GHz... backed it down to 3.4 GHz a year ago, been rockin and rollin ever since!

Well,, speaking from experience,, Intel's stock heat sink and fans are actually pretty darn good out of the box and I have 2 PC's right now, using them that are 6 and 3 years old and only had Arctic Silver put in place of stock thermal pads and paste. Never have had a problem or had to redo it.

But, will add that if you are worried, then yes, for peace of mind, spend the extra, but probably isn't actually needed, if you use Arctic Silver.

Also keep in mind that it is possible to replace a perfectly good stock heatsink and fan with a crappy one.