Steve Johnson wrote:
> I am in the market for a new/used laptop and will probably buy on
> ebay or other auction site so wont be able to return. Looks like the
> high end processor choices (above 2Ghz) are either P4's, Centrino's
> or AMD 64's.
> I use my laptop in a very sound sensitive environment and cant have a
> noisy fan blowing. I had to return a Dell for just this reason.
>
> Can anyone tell me which, on average, of these processors tends to
> run the coolest for a given speed and, therefore, would need less fan
> cooling?
> I realize that case size, manufacturer, etc. will all bear on the
> question but just want a starting point.
>
> Thanks.

There is some variability in the cooling systems/fan requirements among
manufacturers using the same processors, but in general, the more
capable computers - faster processors, better GPU's, more RAM (a minor
factor), faster HDs (also somewhat a minor factor), will generate the
most waste heat and have more fan noise. The P4, 3+Ghz with ATI, Nvidia
graphics, 7200 rpm drives have the largest and noisiest fans.

So, the opposite is directionally true: the slower CPUs, less capable
graphics, less ram, slower HDs will run cooler and more quietly. The
most silent are the small form factor ~1Ghz Pentium M, 10-12 inch
screens, Intel graphics, etc.

The smaller laptops are gaining in popularity since, despite the "slow"
CPUs and "basic" graphics, are capable of satisfying the computational
demands of many people, are extremely portable, and have outstanding
battery life, excellent LCD screens, not forgetting that they are
generally silent.

Dell, IBM, Sony (not an exhaustive list) all make very nice small form
factor, quiet laptops.

Q