While modern CPUs seem to be usually good to operate 89C, 95C, 100C, or even a bit hotter. Some GPUs are even good to 110C while years ago the limits were typically 90C.
However, back in the late 1990s and early 2000s CPU max temps were often specified to much lower numbers - 70C being common, and some as low as 60C.
I am curious what are all of the factors that have allowed CPUs to run stable while hotter, especially considering leakage has gotten worse over time. I'm thinking:
- The sensors of CPUs have gotten more accurate over time
- The sensors are better placed for local hot spots
- Silicon/insulating layers are thinner now, allowing better thermal conductivity away from hot spots (?)
Are there other factors in the physical design or packaging that may also have helped? Does heat affect maximum frequency less today than before because of certain physics?
Thanks!
Classic CPU temp limits. (Examples, Pentium 3 CPUs with limits between 60 and 80C, K6 CPUs from 60C to 75C, etc).
However, back in the late 1990s and early 2000s CPU max temps were often specified to much lower numbers - 70C being common, and some as low as 60C.
I am curious what are all of the factors that have allowed CPUs to run stable while hotter, especially considering leakage has gotten worse over time. I'm thinking:
- The sensors of CPUs have gotten more accurate over time
- The sensors are better placed for local hot spots
- Silicon/insulating layers are thinner now, allowing better thermal conductivity away from hot spots (?)
Are there other factors in the physical design or packaging that may also have helped? Does heat affect maximum frequency less today than before because of certain physics?
Thanks!
Classic CPU temp limits. (Examples, Pentium 3 CPUs with limits between 60 and 80C, K6 CPUs from 60C to 75C, etc).
The Heatsink Guide - All about PC cooling
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