Here is my situation:
I built this computer with the following:
P4 2.53
Asus P4PE
Ti4200s
512mb DDR333
Chieftec case
My computer idles around 42deg/C, and reaches 54deg/C under heavy load. (MOHAA, UT2003).
These temperatures seem a little high to me, especially since I am not overclocking the system.
The following conditions can be taken into account:
a.) I am monitoring the temp w/ ASUS PCProbe. (which I've heard reads a little on the high side.)
b.) I did not use thermal paste when installing the heat-sink. (Intel's instructions said there was no need, due to the heat transfer strip.)
c.) I only have the two OEM 80mm exhaust fans in the back of the case. (I installed an intake fan in the front, but it did not decrease the temperature, and was thus removed.)
d.) I upgraded the PSU to an Antec True430. (the stock case PSU was garbage.)
e.) I have rounded IDE cables to maximize airflow. (as shown below.)
Now, should I worry about the temperature, or am I just paranoid? Is this average for a system like this? I've seen a lot of members with temperatures in the mid 30's.