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Hi, I am trying to work out whether my new lapotop has an issue that requires RMA. I found info below from the msi site, (AI summary) and I am trying to understand its meaning. Can someone advise what is 'frequent' and 'occasionally' in this context?

As far as I can tell my new laptop (with Intel Core 5 120U processor) throttles everytime on start up, momentarily. Does that count as frequent? Does occasional mean outside of momentary spikes (say on start up?)

Thanks in adavnce for any response to this question that is not about and MSI product.

Understanding Thermal Throttling in Intel CPUs​

What is Thermal Throttling?​

Thermal throttling is a safety feature in modern processors, including Intel CPUs. It reduces the power to the CPU when temperatures approach critical limits, typically around 100°C. This mechanism helps prevent overheating and potential damage to the processor.

Is Momentary Thermal Throttling Normal?​

  • Yes, momentary thermal throttling is normal for Intel CPUs. It is designed to protect the CPU from overheating during heavy processing tasks.
  • If throttling occurs occasionally, it indicates that the CPU is managing its temperature effectively.

When is Thermal Throttling a Concern?

  • Frequent Throttling: If thermal throttling happens often, it may signal issues such as:
    • Inadequate cooling solutions
    • Poor airflow within the PC case
    • Dust buildup in cooling components

Current Throttling​

  • Rare Current Throttling: Experiencing current throttling infrequently is generally acceptable. It may occur under extreme load conditions but should not be a regular occurrence.

Summary​

Momentary thermal throttling is a normal and necessary function of Intel CPUs to ensure safety and longevity. However, if it becomes frequent, it is essential to investigate cooling and airflow solutions to maintain optimal performance.
 
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