On Mon, 13 Dec 2004 23:31:53 GMT, "William R. Walsh"
wrote:

Hi!

Is there a detriment to running your processor at 100% so long as the
cooling fans are running properly and there is adequate air flow?

I've seen some cheap-o systems that couldn't handle this. I think this was
mainly because the power supply and power supply circuitry on the
motherboard weren't up to the task. Also, if you have a slightly weak
system, you may not know it until you try one of these programs.

But other than that, running your processor at 100% utilization all the time
won't hurt anything. A lot of people do just that with projects like
Seti@home and Distributed.net. In other words, if your machine has some
minor fault, doing such a project will usually find it, but it's not going
to break perfectly functional hardware.

Now...you mention having a laptop in the form of an Inspiron 8500. This
brings to mind some points of caution when you start a distributed computing
project for the first time. First, make sure the machine is in a place where
ventilation is not an issue. Secondly, make sure the computer is capable of
charging the battery *properly* while running a distributed computing
project of any sort. Sometimes the power supplies in laptops cannot handle
all the load of a pegged CPU, a lit display panel and charging the battery.
Since the battery "doesn't have to charge" for the machine to function, you
may find that it does not, even if the charging indicator is lit. Just be
watchful on this...you can ruin a battery this way. Seen it happen.

Finally, be careful with handling the computer after it has been running a
distributed computing project. Laptops run with a lot more of their "hot"
parts in closer proximity to the case than desktops do. This could mean that
portions of the casing will be VERY hot and could possibly cause burns if
you go to pick the machine up.

I
have an Inspirion 8500 and started playing with SETI@home s/w which
punches it up to 100% . The Threadmaster s/w that supposedly tones
down the load on the CPU isn't working yet (I don't think I have it
configured properly).

That's what the SETI@home client should do...it will keep CPU usage at or
near 100% all of the time. However, it runs at a low process priority so
that other programs get time on the CPU before it does.

William


Good. I think I will remove the Threadmaster s/w and let it have at
it. I have the laptop on AC power and rarely use the battery unless
I'm on the road in the car. Even then I use an inverter. Runs much
slower on battery power.

The system has been perfect from day one. Not a single problem.
(Knock on wood, hand hitting head)

I do keep things clear of the vent openings and the air coming off the
CPU is not excessive although it is quite warm. I can hear the fan
cycle as needed.

Thanks.