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Intel Core i7-5600U CPU: Addressing queries about overheating on Latitude systems

Summary: The following article answers a query about overheating on Latitude systems with the Intel Core i7-5600U CPU (Central Processing Unit) and includes the correct process for applying thermal paste to a CPU. ...

This article applies to This article does not apply to This article is not tied to any specific product. Not all product versions are identified in this article.
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Symptoms

Overheating complaint on Latitude systems

 

If you suspect your system is overheating I would recommend running through the troubleshooting suggested in the article linked below:

However, if your system is using the Intel Core i7-5600U CPU then you should read the following section.


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Cause

How to check if you have a problem?

 

The maximum operating temperature of the Intel Core i7-5600U CPU is 105°C.

Note: Anything less is still within the CPUs operating standards.

The best practice is to ensure the CPUs Heatsink is fitted correctly and that the thermal paste is only on the CPU and nowhere else.

SLN303435_en_US__2CPU and PCH(1)

(Figure.1 Identifying the PCH and CPU)

Note: The next few steps show the correct and incorrect application of thermal paste to the CPU and PCH (Platform Controller Hub), however this involves removing parts from your PC. Please seek professional help if you aren't comfortable with this..

Dell supplies an online Manual for each of their systems, which includes strip down instructions for all parts. In a case like this we would recommend removing:

  • The Ac Adapter cable
  • The Battery
  • The Access Panel
  • Any part which blocks access to the Heatsink

The Heatsink should be attached solidly to the chassis and the CPU with no gaps or movement. This ensures the best thermal transfer to the Heatsink.

You will have to remove the Heatsink to check the thermal paste.

What you want to see is that the paste is only on the CPU and has not travelled to cover any of the PCH such as the picture shows below:

SLN303435_en_US__4correct CPU PCH paste(1)

(Figure.2 The correct application of thermal paste)

What you don't want to see is that the paste is across both the CPU and the PCH such as the picture shows below:

SLN303435_en_US__5Wrong CPU PCH paste(1)

(Figure.3 The incorrect application of thermal paste)


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Resolution

How to remove thermal paste

 

Note: You will require a cleaning fluid and paper towels to remove the thermal paste. Most cleaning fluids are Isopropyl Alcohol with a concentration of between 70 to 90%. (In this case the higher the better.) The paper towels should be of a quality that shreds are not going to come off inside your system. ANY time you remove the Heatsink from the PC you should be ready to clean and re-apply the thermal paste before re-fitting the part to the chassis.

  1. Dip the paper towel in the cleaning solution away from the PC. (You do NOT want to spill any of the solution inside your system.)

  2. Rub the paper towel with the cleaning solution on both the Heatsink and the CPU/PCH.

  3. Once both parts are clean, use the syringe the thermal paste is sold in to apply new paste to the correct area covering the CPU.

  4. Fit the Heatsink to the CPU ensuring it fits securely.

Note: You can find out more about this particular CPU on Intel's own site.


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Affected Products

Latitude, Latitude E7250/7250
Article Properties
Article Number: 000141644
Article Type: Solution
Last Modified: 21 Feb 2021
Version:  5
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