A+ Computer Cooling

Class Notes:

Is Cooling Important?

• Cooling is most important for servers, gaming systems and any computers that will be running hard for significant amounts of time.
• CPU’s, GPU’s and other components will automatically turn off computer if they get too hot
• Heat can cause weird issues such as freezing, random shutdowns, and things like the mouse pointer jumping around the screen.

Spec’ing Your System

• Make sure you use hardware that’s appropriate for the use case.  You don’t need a 1080ti on a computer used for email.

Environment

• Systems can only cool to ambient temperature.  If the room is 90 degrees it will be more difficult to keep the PC cool.
• Don’t put the computer in a closed cabinet without cooling
• Don’t put servers in closed closets without ventilation

Airflow in cases

• Make sure the case is built with good airflow
• “Cool” looking cases may compromise airflow

Heat Sinks

• Stock heatsinks are generally fine
• If overclocking you may want an upgraded heat sink and fan
• Think about fanless heat sinks for servers and always on appliances

Liquid Cooling

• Liquid cooling is generally only needed for gaming.
• Make sure the case is built to handle liquid cooling
• Liquid cooling adds another point of failure