CPU Running Hot?

[ExpresKeep]

So I JUST reformatted my laptop and its still running right around 72 degrees and I have NO idea why? Any help/ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks a lot. I'm running a P4 2.8Ghz and a gig of ram

 

[jpmkm]

Reformatting has absolutely nothing to do with cpu temperatures. Has it always run that hot, or did it start getting that hot over time? Perhaps you have significant dust buildup inside that is restricting airflow.

 

[ExpresKeep]

hey i think it def has something to do with airflow - i had a decent size dust build up on the outside.. do you think there is a significant amount on the inside? and if so, not knowing jack about laptops, would i be able to clean it myself without killing it? lol it just slowly got worse i suppose since it just got more and more hot.. thanks a lot for the help i appreciate it a lot

 

[MaMMa]

i'd take it apart. taking a part electronics is fun, just simple memorization on where each screws should go back. when you lift off any panels, do it slowly because cables and wires could be attachted. take your time and do it on a towel or something so you dont lose any screws.

also are you checking the temps through CMOS or through a windows program? if its CMOS, then take ur laptop apart. if its a program, see if there's a later version.

and WTF were you thinking when you thought formatting a laptop would drop your temps?

 

[ExpresKeep]

i didn't even know it was the temp that was screwing everything up until i did some research AFTER i formatted - before hand i thought i may have had a virus of some sort using all my CPU but i later learned that as a P4 gets hotter system performance goes down so as to not burn the processor out - hence, i learned there was an obstruction in my airflow - after unscrewing the basic panels off the bottom of my laptop (dell inspiron 9100) im now down to 59*C - still to warm right? at least my fans aren't going crazy right now - im using the latest version of SpeedFan to check temps - what temp should i be aiming for and how can i get this SOB cooler?