dtgreene: Anyway, as I mentioned in the other topic, I decided to move my PC and try to remove dust:
* The outside vents were, of course, dusty.
* The inside was surprisingly dust-free.
* The CPU cooler had fallen off, so I put it back on.
* After all this, the computer now idles at 40C, and I can now watch 720p 60fps videos without the computer overheating. (So yes, this *did* make a difference.)
Ok, i think it's reasonable to ask, at this point "Why did it fall off?" There's a lesson to be learned, here.
StationaryNomad: A Datavac for dusting computer equipment is better than canned air.
https://metrovac.com/products/datavac-electric-duster?variant=18877237067849 Secondly, you might want to consider reapplying thermal paste to your CPU and discrete GPU if you have one. This is a very easy process and there are many videos on Youtube showing how to do it.
Thirdly, you might want to take a look at cable management and make sure all wires/cables are tucked out of the way and you have good airflow inside the PC case.
Finally, consider adding more or better intake and exhaust fans.
scientiae: Its possible and recommended to create more internal air pressure to minimize dust transport into the case;
confer a
rugged computer. (This is opposite to the technique used to keep quarantine patients beyond a
cordon sanitaire in a public building, like a hospital.)
Of course that leaves the contagious grime to clean from peripheral interfaces, like the finger oils and skin slough that layers atop any keyboard. Manufacturers recommend simple slightly soapy water, rather than any corrosive astringents.
edit: link syntax (:|) & definition
One could reasonably ask why we don't keep PCs completely enclosed instead of using fans, then. However, we know the answer to this. The smaller the holes, the lower the airflow. Air compressors (if you wanted to blow instead of suck) will also generate heat. The lesson, here, is to regularly dedust, accepting that it's something you'll have to do.
