A technician is troubleshooting a desktop computer that shuts down suddenly after being used for several hours. The vents, fans and internal casing are free of dust and obstructions. The technician suspects that the computer is experiencing overheating problems. What should the technician check FIRST to address the overheating issue?
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Update the BIOS firmware to the latest version to ensure optimal system regulation.
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Perform a thorough cleaning of the case and ensure all dust is removed.
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Measure the ambient room temperature to ensure it is within recommended operating levels.
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Reapply the thermal paste on the CPU after checking its condition and reseating the heatsink.
The technician should first check the thermal paste because it facilitates heat transfer from the CPU to the heatsink. If the thermal paste is old, improperly applied, or missing, the CPU may overheat, leading to sudden shutdowns after prolonged use. The question states the internal components are free of dust and debris, so cleaning does not making sense as a next step. Checking the ambient room temperature is important for overall heat management, but the first point of heat transfer that should be checked is between the CPU and heatsink. BIOS firmware updates could resolve overheating only if the issue is related to improper fan control; this step is typically considered after verifying the physical heat transfer mechanisms.
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What is thermal paste, and why is it important for CPU cooling?
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What are some other cooling solutions if the thermal paste and heatsink are in good condition?