[mythtv-users] Why is OpenGL video renderer overheating my GPU?

[David Watkins]

> Second, what are my options?  I just ordered some thermal paste and
> will take the heatsink off, blow compressed air through it and the fan
> (although it does not look there is much, if any, dust in either) and
> apply some thermal grease.  Are there any other solutions?  Would a
> third party heatsink/fan be a good option and if so, can anyone
> recommend one that will not take up more space than the current one
> does?

Does the heatsink itself feel excessively hot?

If the die temperature is too hot then either:
    the chip is generating too much heat,   or
    the heat can't get into the heatsink fast enough,  or
    the heat can't get out of the heatsink fast enough.

The first option seems unlikely, while the temperature of the heatsink
should give a clue between the second and third.

If the chip is at 100C then I'd expect the heatsink to be too hot to
touch.  If the heatsink is not that hot then improving the contact
between the chip and the heatsink might help.  Don't be tempted to use
too much thermal paste.  Concentrate on making the surfaces clean and
shiny (polish them) and ensuring that the heatsink sits squarely on
the chip. Use the thinnest layer of paste that you can apply evenly.

If the heatsink is too hot then you need to improve the airflow.  A
better heatsink is likely to just delay the point at which the chip
overheats.