New T43, list of some questions, need help

[IKA258]

Alright, so I just got my new laptop a couple days ago. I've run across some things I wanted to find out. I have a 2668-72u model if that helps (2ghz 80 gig HD, x300 video)

1.) How hot is the CPU/GPU suppose to get or can get. I get 69/74ish when running games (probably a little more cause I have to alt tab out to see the temp). Should I buy a cooling pad so I don't damage the parts? Is this temp acceptable?

2.) I've noticed that if I'm not careful about closing my notebook there's a bit of LCD screen flex. Does "flex" damage the LCD screen, or was it designed to be flexable and doesn't sustain damage?

3.) At what CPU temp does the bios set the fan to above 4100ish RPM? It seems that even at close to 70 it still runs at the same speed as it does at 50.

Alright, thanks a lot guys.

[IKA258]

Bump, anyone?

[christopher_wolf]

Alright, so I just got my new laptop a couple days ago. I've run across some things I wanted to find out. I have a 2668-72u model if that helps (2ghz 80 gig HD, x300 video)

1.) How hot is the CPU/GPU suppose to get or can get. I get 69/74ish when running games (probably a little more cause I have to alt tab out to see the temp). Should I buy a cooling pad so I don't damage the parts? Is this temp acceptable?

2.) I've noticed that if I'm not careful about closing my notebook there's a bit of LCD screen flex. Does "flex" damage the LCD screen, or was it designed to be flexable and doesn't sustain damage?

3.) At what CPU temp does the bios set the fan to above 4100ish RPM? It seems that even at close to 70 it still runs at the same speed as it does at 50.

Alright, thanks a lot guys.

1.) Those temps are pretty normal actually.

2.) That flex shouldn't be large and is normal, a tiny amount won't harm the LCD and is expected.

3.) It should trigger at 65°C, but that varies from system to system and in different environs; see the link in my signature if you want to control the fan behavior on your T43.

Enjoy your T43.

[GomJabbar]

As far a display flex is concerned, I prefer to be on the cautious side and open or close the diplay by gripping at the middle or by both corners. I do not normally move my display by gripping at one corner only. But that's just me.

I have not read of any particular problems with the display in this regard. I have read where some users who have a habit of picking up the ThinkPad by one corner only - sometimes end up with motherboard problems. The thought is that continued flexing creates loose solder joints or possibly broken traces on the motherboard.

[IKA258]

So you wouldn't recommend a cooling pad in that case?

By normal temp do you mean that there isn't much wear on the electronic parts, or should I put my fan up to max and avoid running any games cause it'll decrease the lifespan of my lappy?

Thanks of the help guys

[christopher_wolf]

So you wouldn't recommend a cooling pad in that case?

By normal temp do you mean that there isn't much wear on the electronic parts, or should I put my fan up to max and avoid running any games cause it'll decrease the lifespan of my lappy?

Thanks of the help guys

By normal, I mean that those temps are pretty much in the standard operating range for that model and shouldn't affect the MTBF or life of the system as is. Basically, don't worry about it.

Whether you want a cooling pad or not or want to ramp up the fan speed is up to you. Take a look at some of the temps reported in the Thinkpad Utility Forum; they have a good sampling of T43 and similar system temps so you can compare and/or contrast if you so wish.