Laptop Overheating

Another way to reduce overheating problems with a laptop is to operate the computer at slower than full design speeds. Just as “overclocking” a PC can generate heat problems in a properly designed computer, “underclocking” a poorly designed notebook can reduce overheating problems. It is annoying to pay a manufacturer extra for a faster chip, and then have to operate the chip at less than full speed, but on occasions an operational but slightly slower computer is better than a non-operational computer. Random shutdowns can also interfere with productivity more than a percentage loss in top processor speed.

Reducing screen brightness can have a similar effect. Modern laptop screens and graphic cards can generate surprising levels of heat, and dialing back otherwise desirable screen brightness can alleviate heat problems.

For many laptops, this can be achieved through the power conservation settings that included in the proprietary software in order to help extend battery life. Access these controls, and experiment with lowering processor speeds a notch at a time. Alternatively, depending on your preferences, try adjusting screen brightness to see if this has an impact.