Do you want to build a new system but are worried about the lifespan of a CPU? Are you concerned about whether your expensive system will last long or not?
If this is the case, you have just come to the right place.
I have been building computers and gaming rigs since a young age. I believe I can explain to you about CPU’s longevity and share many more valuable tips.
So read the full article to know everything regarding this topic.
What is a CPU?
Every electronic device which can compute has a CPU. CPU is abbreviated as Central Processing Unit. It’s also called a microprocessor or a processor.
It is one of the most crucial elements of a computer system.
The CPU is the brain of the computer. It’s in charge of all the instructions that need to be processed.
The CPU’s primary role is to interpret data from a peripheral (keyboard, mouse, printer, etc.) or a computer program. The CPU then either sends data to your monitor or executes the instruction asked by the peripheral.
There are two popular CPU brands in the market right now. One is AMD, and another one is Intel. Both of them have a good reputation across the tech community. And have a long life span.
How Long Should a CPU Last
As you might have known, the CPU works relentlessly. It doesn’t stop computing for a single moment. So the lifespan of a CPU is quite uncertain.
Even though they operate nonstop, they may survive a very long period if the components surrounding them are adequately maintained.
A CPU should last until you decide not to use it anymore. Apart from that, an ideal lifespan of a CPU is 8-10 years. That means you can use a CPU for a more extended period if it doesn’t fail.
Now you might be wondering which famous CPU brand has a better lifespan than others between Intel and AMD.
You would be happy to hear that Intel and AMD have a great lifespan. The failure rate of these CPUs is shallow. If you can maintain your components correctly, a CPU can easily last 10 years or more.
What Are The Symptoms of CPU Failure?
There are some significant symptoms that users can experience. Some of them are very common, and others are pretty rare. However, a partially damaged CPU still works and it is difficult to detect the problem. It requires extensive testing.
Here are the symptoms of CPU failure:
- Random Computer Freezes: Random freezing of your computer generally happens after logging into the operating system. This is one of the most common symptoms that CPU failure may occur. None of your commands will be followed by the system. If you try to use the keyboard, it constantly gives brief beeps and the mouse freezes on the screen. It’s pretty possible that restarting the computer won’t fix the problem.
- System Faces Booting Issues: When you turn on your computer, you should hear a beep sound. However, if the CPU fails, there may be difficulties starting, such as blank displays, no beep after the startup and no response when pressing keyboard keys or clicking the mouse. It’s sure evidence of a CPU failure.
- Random Computer Shutdowns: When you perform an intensive task that heats up your CPU, the motherboard often shuts down the system to cool down the CPU and prevent it from damaging. But if these shutdowns occur frequently, there is a probability of CPU failure.
- Blue Screen of Death: A blue screen with a lot of information and some error words is referred to as the Blue Screen of Death. It can happen due to many factors, and CPU failure is one of them. If other components of your system seem okay, then there is a high chance your CPU might be in danger.
- Continuous Beep Alerts: At the time of booting, you always hear a beep sound. It is called the Post Test. If any distinctive beep sounds happen, then there is a high chance of CPU failure.
Why Does the CPU Failure Occur?
CPU doesn’t die unless you damage it’s hardware components. Apart from that, there are still some reasons that can result in CPU failure.
Here are the reasons for CPU failure:
- Overheating Issue: Overheating leads to CPU failure. When the processor is not cooled correctly, the heat it generates can damage itself. Anything above 90 degrees celsius is dangerous. It does not melt the CPU, however.
- Overclocking CPU: Overclocking is the easiest solution to get an instant performance boost. However, it comes with the cost of a smaller lifespan of the CPU.
- Short Circuited Motherboards: There is another typical case where the processor gets partially or permanently damaged due to the short-circuited motherboard. It happens when the negative and positive terminals get connected somehow. It can deal severe damage to your system, including the CPU.
- High Voltage Pass: It can happen due to a lightning strike near you or a high voltage signal from your power supply. Generally, it occurs through a bad power supply unit. When your power supply can not regulate the voltage, it sends an abnormal amount of high voltage. Which results in a dead or fried CPU.
- Physical damage: Processors with damaged pins are another common issue. It will not be able to work correctly if one or more of the processor’s pins are damaged or bent.
How to Increase the Lifespan of a CPU
If you want to use your computer for a more extended period of time, then you need to make sure that all of the components work perfectly. And you need to save them from any internal or external damage to extend their life span.
Here is how you can extend the lifespan of a CPU:
- Always have an eye on CPU temperature. For any system, 65 to 70 degrees Celsius is ideal. You should be worried at 75 to 80 degrees celsius. Anything more than that is alarming. Stop working and try to find out the heating issues. If you are unable to find issues, then seek the help of an expert.
- Keep your system clean because any Microparticles can damage your CPU and other components. So make sure to keep your system as clean as possible.
- Use a quality cooling system. It is a must thing to do if you want to increase the CPU performance and lifespan.
- Use an excellent power supply unit to prevent your CPU from failing. A quality power supply can save your system from sudden voltage spikes and other voltage-related issues.
- Save your CPU from any liquid substances. If you have a liquid cooling system, then make sure it doesn’t leak and damage your system components.
Follow these tips, and I’m sure your processor will last longer.
FAQs
How long do RAMs last?
Rams can last way longer than processors. Typically they can last at least 10-12 years. However, any internal or external damage can reduce the life span of rams. Make sure to use them in a safe manner.
How often should you change your CPU?
If you want the latest technologies, then you should upgrade your CPU every 3-4 years. If you upgrade your GPU or motherboard, you should definitely buy a newer CPU as well. Otherwise, it may bottleneck your system. Otherwise, as long as your computer is up and running, you’re good to go.
How long do Laptop processors last?
If you take care of your laptop CPU, it may live virtually as long as a desktop processor. Your laptop CPU can last from 6 to 10 years unless you use it for intensive gaming or graphic creation. Finally, It depends on how you use your laptop and how good your laptop components are.
Conclusion
A CPU in a laptop or a desktop can last for decades if you use them on a day-to-day task. But heavy use or any major external or internal issues can significantly reduce the life span of a processor.
Make sure you read the article thoroughly and improve your CPU’s longevity.
Thanks for your patience. If you have any other questions related to it, feel free to contact me.
I’ll definitely come up with a response.
