Hey guys, need a little help with a laptop/fan question.

[dem629]

I have a laptop that I got in January, so it's less than a year old. I THINK the fan has started to run more often, but I can't tell if I've just started to notice it more. (Sounds weird, I know, but I had a problem with a previous laptop, so I'm paranoid about it.)

Anyway, I do not run very intensive programs. I use Word a lot, browse blogs, etc. I don't play games on it, I don't use any graphics programs, etc. The only thing that has changed recently is that I just switched from dialup (I know, I know) to DSL, and I have been checking out more stuff on youtube and videos like that.

The other thing I have paid attention to is that when the fan runs louder, it doesn't do it for very long. And when I stop using the laptop, it quiets down within just a few minutes. Maybe that's a good sign of normal functioning? I don't know.

So...is there anything going on here or am I worrying about nothing?

Thanks in advance for any input.

[trotsky]

1. That is normal - the fan kicks into high gear only when needed.

However what's also normal is for dust to collect in there, and for the cooling to be less efficient as time goes on, causing the fan to run more.

Got an air compressor? If not, go to just about any electronics or office supply store and get one of those cans o' air. Take the laptop outside, and blow full blast into the fan intake. You'll be surprised at the stuff that flies out.

[dem629]

2. Thanks. I checked the fan and there was indeed some

dust buildup on the outside and in the little slots and I was able to brush it off (mostly). I do have one of those air canisters which I use on the keyboard for cleaning. Sometimes, though, I have noticed the cold air coming out forms a light frost and one time a key was stuck for a few minutes. Whoops! Maybe I was doing it too close. Is there any danger in doing that with the fan? Should I just hold it further away?

Thanks again for the help. I'm a novice with hardware, as you can tell.

[trotsky]

3. Just use short bursts.

However you're unlikely to cause any harm with that light layer of frost - so long as the computer isn't running when you do it. ;)

[RC]

4. Do NOT shake the can before using it.