My ACER AN515-51 Nitro 5 laptop is constantly overheating while playing games.

AtharvaM
AtharvaM Member Posts: 3 New User

The problem is really annoying as while playing a game whose minimum settings are far lower than the current system spec, it always overheats to 95-97C and starts thermal throttling. I ran the Intel Extreme Tuning application to check and sure enough it to displayed that it was thermal throttling 80%.The idle game temp is 86C.Please suggest a solution as it is getting very annoying.
My current spec :

CPU - Intel i5 - 11400H

GPU - GTX 1650

RAM - 8GB

Best Answer

  • StevenGen
    StevenGen ACE Posts: 12,802 Trailblazer
    edited November 2023 Answer ✓

    The Nitro AN515-51 laptop is designed to run at high temps, and has a pre-determined Acer temp limit for both cpu and gpu set to the temps below:

    CPU

    • CPU Turbo off at 90°C; CPU Turbo on at 80°C
    • CPU Prochot on at 98°C; CPU Prochot off at 90°C
    • EC Shut down at 100°C

    GPU

    • CPU PL1/PL2=35W at 93°C; PL1/PL2 recovery at 85°C
    • CPU Prochot on at 98°C;CPU Prochot off at 90°C
    • EC Shut down at 102°C

    Make sure that your laptop has also had its cpu and gpu thermal paste and pads changed and its fans and vents cleaned, also its got the latest NVidia GeForce Game Ready Driver for the GTX1650 version 546.17 WHQL for Win-10 and the latest version of GeForce Experience version 3.27.0.120 software installed to play games through this specialist NVidia software, as this software sets all supported games (which supports over 1500 games) to their best and ultimate settings that will also make your laptop run cooler. Also make sure that you are running the last bios version 1.22 and all windows and intel updates are up to date. As having your laptop updated will reduce temps and you should not have temps in the high 90°C only when playing high end games which should be at those temps monetarily.

Answers

  • Puraw
    Puraw ACE, Member Posts: 14,653 Trailblazer

    There is little or no information about your configuration, did you buy the laptop in India/Thailand? The original An515-51 is from 2017 with Intel 7th Gen. CPU. I recommend bringing it to Acer Services in your country as running the CPU at a constant 97°C is not good (it should shut down at 100°C otherwise the CPU will burn).

  • StevenGen
    StevenGen ACE Posts: 12,802 Trailblazer
    edited November 2023 Answer ✓

    The Nitro AN515-51 laptop is designed to run at high temps, and has a pre-determined Acer temp limit for both cpu and gpu set to the temps below:

    CPU

    • CPU Turbo off at 90°C; CPU Turbo on at 80°C
    • CPU Prochot on at 98°C; CPU Prochot off at 90°C
    • EC Shut down at 100°C

    GPU

    • CPU PL1/PL2=35W at 93°C; PL1/PL2 recovery at 85°C
    • CPU Prochot on at 98°C;CPU Prochot off at 90°C
    • EC Shut down at 102°C

    Make sure that your laptop has also had its cpu and gpu thermal paste and pads changed and its fans and vents cleaned, also its got the latest NVidia GeForce Game Ready Driver for the GTX1650 version 546.17 WHQL for Win-10 and the latest version of GeForce Experience version 3.27.0.120 software installed to play games through this specialist NVidia software, as this software sets all supported games (which supports over 1500 games) to their best and ultimate settings that will also make your laptop run cooler. Also make sure that you are running the last bios version 1.22 and all windows and intel updates are up to date. As having your laptop updated will reduce temps and you should not have temps in the high 90°C only when playing high end games which should be at those temps monetarily.

  • a_happy_laptop_user
    a_happy_laptop_user Member Posts: 63 Devotee WiFi Icon

    It sounds like your laptop is experiencing thermal issues, which can lead to overheating and thermal throttling. Here are some steps you can take to address the problem:

    1. Check for Dust:

    Over time, dust can accumulate in the cooling system, reducing its effectiveness. Use compressed air to blow out any dust from the vents and cooling fans. Make sure to do this while the laptop is turned off.

    2. Laptop Cooling Pad:

    Invest in a laptop cooling pad. These pads have built-in fans that help improve airflow around your laptop, reducing overall temperatures.

    3. Elevate Your Laptop:

    Elevating the back of your laptop with a stand or by placing it on a hard, flat surface can improve airflow and cooling.

    4. Undervolting:

    Undervolting is a process of reducing the voltage that your CPU uses. It can help lower temperatures without sacrificing performance significantly. However, not all laptops allow undervolting, and it may void your warranty, so proceed with caution.

    5. Optimize Power Settings:

    Adjust your laptop's power settings to prioritize performance or cooling. You can do this in the Power Options settings on your laptop. Choosing a power plan that prioritizes cooling may help manage temperatures.

    6. Update Drivers:

    Ensure that your graphics card and CPU drivers are up-to-date. Sometimes, driver updates include optimizations that can help with thermal management.

    7. Check Background Processes:

    Make sure no unnecessary background processes are running, especially resource-intensive applications. Task Manager can help you identify and close such processes.

    8. Check for BIOS/UEFI Updates:

    Check the laptop manufacturer's website for any available BIOS or UEFI updates. These updates can sometimes include optimizations for thermal management.

    9. Repasting the CPU:

    If you're comfortable with hardware work, consider repasting the CPU. Over time, the thermal paste between the CPU and the heatsink can degrade. Replacing it with a high-quality thermal paste can improve thermal conductivity.

    10. Add More RAM:

    While not directly related to thermal issues, adding more RAM could help reduce the load on the system, potentially improving overall performance and heat generation.

    11. Professional Cleaning and Repasting:

    If the laptop is still under warranty, consider contacting the manufacturer for professional cleaning and thermal paste replacement. If it's out of warranty, you may want to consult with a professional technician.

    Remember that laptops, especially those designed for gaming, can generate a significant amount of heat. However, consistent temperatures above 90°C are generally not ideal and can lead to long-term damage. If the issue persists after trying these solutions, it's advisable to consult with the laptop manufacturer's support or seek assistance from a professional technician.