'The Message'
Got a question about technology? Ask it here. Discussion of hardware, software, TiVos, multi-region DVDs, Windows, Macs, LINUX, hand-helds, iPods, anything tech related. Better than any helpdesk!
So, the next purchase I'm probably going to make (aside from upgrading the memory modules) is a laptop cooling pad. I was looking at some in Best Buy today, but they were all 10" pads that looked too small to be really effective for my 17" laptop.
Anybody got any recs?
Also, I downloaded a handy computer metrics dashboard widget that includes temperature readings for several parts of the computer. It's terribly useful, but it leaves me wondering what the normal/ideal operating ranges for those values are supposed to be, and at what point I should sleep/shut down the computer for a while to let it cool off.
In general, I've been extremely conservative, and closing the cover to walk away at regular intervals, but if I'm going to base my decisions off of hard data, I'd like to be able to understand what I'm reading.
Sean, before trying something complicated, check out using Fan Control to modify when and how the fans come on. I've found that playing with the values can help keep a Macbook (Pro) a lot cooler.
Sean, I have a basic laptop stand. No cooling fans. I think it was $10 when I ordered it thru macmall eons ago (it's a G4 iBook). Does the trick nice. I think it's mostly about getting some airflow in around it. Also, and I'm sure the hivemind will correct me, if you are at home and walking away, put it to sleep with the lid open, so heat can dissipate up. I've heard closing the lid traps some heat in. Again, these could be all different with the new line. Also, what Gris says.
Okay I have installed Fan Control (possibly twice), but now I can't find it -- in applications or anywhere.
Eh, I've used my Mac Laptops, which have been too numerous to count, in all kinds of asstastic conditions with no extra cooling. I routinely run my 17" on the bed or on a pillow with no extra cooling. The fans kick in when they need to. I haven't killed one of them yet.
I haven't killed one of them yet.
Yeah, you know, this is why I was wondering about operational tolerances. It seems hot, and some of the parts get up over 150 degrees F, but just at a thought that seems pretty normal for a computer like this, and likely well within tolerances.
Eh, I've used my Mac Laptops, which have been too numerous to count, in all kinds of asstastic conditions with no extra cooling. I routinely run my 17" on the bed or on a pillow with no extra cooling. The fans kick in when they need to. I haven't killed one of them yet.
See, lately my laptop has just been shutting off because it gets too hot. I thought it was because I was using it on my bed, but this still seems to happen if I prop it up to get airspace under it.
megan, check to make sure the air vents aren't clogged or dirty. You may not be getting adequate airflow from within the computer.
megan, check to make sure the air vents aren't clogged or dirty. You may not be getting adequate airflow from within the computer.
That's what I was thinking, but I have no idea how they should look. I should probably get my techy housemate to check them out.