Overheat

Updated: 04/02/2019 by Computer Hope
Thermometer showing temperature of 40 degrees Celsius.

When a computer or electronic device generates more heat than it is designed to handle, it is said to be overheating. A computer that overheats may shut down without warning to prevent permanent damage to its hardware, especially the processor. Other components that may overheat include a computer's memory, hard drive, video card, and power supply.

What causes overheating

Overheating may be caused by a failing or inadequate fan, poor ventilation, a bad cable, dust, dirt, an underperforming hard drive, or an inadequate power supply.

What to do when your computer overheats

In all cases, it's best to determine what's causing the overheating and find an adequate solution. Fixes may include replacing or adding fans, replacing defective hardware, or moving your computer to an area with better air ventilation.

Hardware terms, Heat gun, Hot, Thermal compound