Win ME log on screen and core temps

[erjed]

Has anyone else noticed this?

I have a P III 1GHz.
I use a compunurse to monitor my core temps. MoBo does not have any thermistors so the compunurse is my only way of measuring temps.
I use Windows ME and I share the computer with another person so we both have different usernames.
When windows starts, it goes to the log on screen (blue background with small log on window).
It seems very strange but if I don't log on and leave it at this screen, my core temps climbs up and does not stop climbing. The HD light is off, so I figure there is no HD activity. But there seems to be a lot of processor activity, as if it was running on full load when in fact the computer is doing nothing. No programs has been loaded yet and when I press ctrl-alt-del there are no programs listed.
Before I got the compunurse, i used to leave the computer at this screen so that it is easier to log in for any one of us. I wasn't aware that the processor was being stressed so much and that a lot of heat was being produced.
Note: After logging in, the temps drop like a rock until it reaches my idle temps.

Hope someone can explain this. Is there any problem with my system configuration?

Thanks.

[Diggrr]

I think it's called active listening. The system, waiting to start, is checking for your keystrokes hundreds of times per second. Letting it sit on the login screen is much like a cpu burnin program (not the ones that do memory, bus, and such)
It's nothing that'll really harm your chip, as long as your normal full load temps are where they should be.

[erjed]

Originally posted by Diggrr
I think it's called active listening. The system, waiting to start, is checking for your keystrokes hundreds of times per second. Letting it sit on the login screen is much like a cpu burnin program (not the ones that do memory, bus, and such)
It's nothing that'll really harm your chip, as long as your normal full load temps are where they should be.

What should be my normal full lead temps? I tried to let the computer sit on the log on screen for about 10 minutes and the temps kept on skyrocketing to more than 90° C. When I log in and let it sit, the idle temps are 35-42°C. Surfing the net right now it's 45°C. Are these temps too high?
I have an SK6 heatsink but no fan on it. My system came with a stock intel aluminum heatsink which I replaced. It also did not have a fan on it. Instead there was a shroud that covered the HSF and ducted air to a 92mm case fan blowing air out. I removed the shroud a few days ago. I'll try to see what happens if I put it back on.
Could I have damaged my chip by letteing the temps got to 90°C?
Everything works fine as of now. No lockcups yet.
Anyway, what temps can fry a chip? Just want to know.

Note: I've checked, and the heatsink is flush with the core. I also used ASII as instructed. Leaving the cover off does not change the temps in any way.


Thanks for the info.