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just.because

macrumors newbie
Original poster
Jun 23, 2011
7
0
I'm scared my graphic card or something else will melt? I had quite a lot of problems with my old iMac 24" and its graphic card which was caused (I think?) by overheating. I play quite a lot of games on high settings (like World of Warcraft etc.).

Should my iMac manage overheating alone? Should I install SMC FanControl? What temperature is the highest computer can run without damage?
 
I'm scared my graphic card or something else will melt? I had quite a lot of problems with my old iMac 24" and its graphic card which was caused (I think?) by overheating. I play quite a lot of games on high settings (like World of Warcraft etc.).

Should my iMac manage overheating alone? Should I install SMC FanControl? What temperature is the highest computer can run without damage?

The Intel processors used in Macs are designed to automatically shut down to prevent damage if they truly overheat (around 100C/212F - 105C/221F, depending on your processor). iStat Pro will give you accurate readings of your temps, among other things.

Unless there is a rare defect in your Mac, your temps are well within the normal operating range, considering the workload you're putting on it. Websites with Flash content, games and other multimedia apps will put higher demand on the CPU/GPU, generating more heat. This is normal. If you're constantly putting high demands on your system, such as gaming or other multimedia tasks, expect temps to rise and fans to spin up accordingly. It's just your Mac doing its job to maintain temps within the normal range.

Learn about the fans in your Mac
Apple Portables: Operating temperature
 
Ah, thank you. I got the widget, and it's awesome. Okay, then I shall leave the computer to manage the heat alone.
 
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