This is usually normal, because
* The board is longer than average, with a large surface area which can
block the air-flow inside the computer case.
* In the case of the Pinnacle Project Studio (PPS), there are also two
daughterboards attached (Digital I/O and the HOMAC) which contribute
heat and further block air circulation.
* The Pinnacle is a multi-layered board (six layers!). As a result, the
inner layers dissipate heat to the outer layers, making it harder to
cool off than a ?thinly? insulated board with fewer layers.
Note: The card is intentionally designed this way to provide better
insulation from inherently noisy computer components, resulting in
quieter overall performance.
This should not present a problem under normal circumstances. However, if
the system is crowded with other cards that run hot in addition to the
Pinnacle, or the system provides poor ventilation, following one or more
of the following steps can help cool the system:
1) Do not place the computer near any heat-generating appliances (such as
a radiator).
2) Make sure that all fans are working properly (fans tend to fail after
a while without a warning).
3) Make sure the fans are not blocked by any obstacles.
4) Consider upgrading to a full-tower case. Full-tower cases provide more
room and thus keep things cooler than mid-tower or desktop cases.
5) Verify there are enough fans in the system (it may be necessary to check
with the computer manufacturer). Typically, two fans are required to
create a good air flow - one in the front of the case sucking fresh air
in, and another in the back blowing heated air out.
6) Keep the adjacent slots to the Pinnacle empty, if possible.
7) Swap the Pinnacle with another card seated in a slot that receives
better ventilation.
8) Consider replacing smaller inefficient fans with larger more powerful
ones. If you are unsure how to do this, ask a qualified technician or
contact the computer manufacturer.
9) Add a third fan blowing directly towards the Pinnacle, if the chassis
structure allows for it. Again, please consult with a qualified
technician.
10) Avoid over-clocking the processor. Overclocking can give better
short-term performance but is not recommended or supported by chip
manufacturers, as it can be detrimental to the computer and/or
Pinnacle card.
11) If NONE of the above is an option, keep the case uncovered.
Do this ONLY if the CPU is mounted in a rack case, keeping it
safe from accidents.
WARNING: Be careful not to spill any liquid or drop objects inside
the computer. This is extremely dangerous, and can cause major
damage to the system and can result in electric shock. |
