X61 runs hot

[karotlopj]

I have an X61 Type 7673-AQ5 which runs extremely hot.

Is this a known 'feature'? Can I do anything about it?

[axur-delmeria]

Which part of the laptop is running hot?

A common complaint would be the right palmrest, which is where the WiFi card (and WWAN/3G card if installed) is located.
Most recommend replacing the WiFi card with a newer one that consumes less power (and puts out less heat as a result)-- the usual recommendations are the Intel 6300 or the Atheros 9380.
Others suggest using a USB WiFi adapter, or a Cardbus-based one.

But if the processor itself is running hot, then the best course of action is to disassemble the unit, clean the heatsink, and apply new thermal paste. If you've never cleaned the heatsink before, then you should do so immediately, as it's very likely that the thermal paste has already dried up.

[jaspen-meyer]

Yes, these machines all run hot.

The Intel 6205 wireless card is the coolest I've tested

Intel wireless cards tested in x61s
- 6300
- 6205 (coolest)
- 5100
- 4965
- 3945

Atheros wireless cards tested in x61s
AR9485 (2nd coolest)
AR5B91 (3rd coolest)
AR9285
AR5BXB112 (aka AR9280)
AR5B195
AR5B95

You also need to enable power management for the wifi card and lower transmit power to 1mW, or whatever the lowest available value is.

I've added a few layers of regular paper atop the right palm rest and a piece of raw hide leather atop that.

[karotlopj]

Which part of the laptop is running hot?

At the side near the fan.

[shawross]

jaspen-meyer One for the list is the Intel 5300 that I have in my X61 which can be picked up cheaply now.