CPU overheating

I'm building a new system with a P4 3.4 GHz dual core on an
abit AW8D motherboard. The CPU is cooled by a Kingwin TD-9225C.

I had problems with automatic shutdown within 30 seconds of bootup. As soon as I turn the computer on, I find that my CPU is running at about 80 C and climbing. Could my motherboard be falsely reporting the CPU temp, or is there something I'm missing.

 

I didn't receive any thermal pastes/pads with my heatsink. After asking around, I was told I wouldn't absolutely need it. The heatsink is pretty secure against the processor. Even if I press down on the heatsink/fan, it still makes no difference.

As for Everest, I have yet to even install windows...I'm afraid to leave it on for any amount of time whatsoever. Is there any faster/non-windows way to see if my motherboard might be reporting wrong?

 

"I didn't receive any thermal pastes/pads with my heatsink. After asking around, I was told I wouldn't absolutely need it."

I don't know of any heatsink that doesn't need thermal paste and I would say all come with paste or a pad. The surface between heatsink and processor is not perfect and has air gaps that act as an insulator actually preventing heat transfer. I would immediately put thermal paste on and retry. Thermal pads are nice but may cause damage if not removed properly. Excess thermal paste may also cause problems and damage.

 

Some modern heatsinks don't use paste but another material, a solid plastic, suposed to melt and fit the gaps. Apparently it's not reliable.
Perhaps it's the PSU causing the problem. What brand and wattage is your PSU?

 

Thermal Paste (grease)......YES you need it!

My advice would be to shutdown and apply immediately, or you may risk frying your CPU.

check this out for correct application

http://www.hardwaresecrets.com/article/274

Regards.....

 

Sailor,
PSU = 550W Ultra X2

Nitecrawler,
Thanks for the article. I'll be getting some very soon.