Macbook Air 2011 Fan + Gaming

[Pooky]

So I know the fan speeds up when doing CPU/GPU intensive tasks, and one can hear it, and the Air gets quite hot.

My question is, is this bad for the computer?

I bootcamped Windows and installed Kingdoms Of Amalur, and it actually runs very well on lower graphics settings (I was surprised), but the fan does speed up to an audible level and the Air heats up. I am just a bit worried that I am damaging my Mac...

 

[PsyWulf]

They got thermal sensors builtin to kill the system before it hits critical levels

That said any form of heat for extended times tend to shorten the life ( 10 years rather than 20 years lifetime? ) Just keep it resting on a well ventilated area rather than on your bed where the vents can't get air

 

[[)roi(]]

So I know the fan speeds up when doing CPU/GPU intensive tasks, and one can hear it, and the Air gets quite hot.

My question is, is this bad for the computer?

I bootcamped Windows and installed Kingdoms Of Amalur, and it actually runs very well on lower graphics settings (I was surprised), but the fan does speed up to an audible level and the Air heats up. I am just a bit worried that I am damaging my Mac...

No need for concern; Macs are well designed... if you'd however prefer to run your Air cooler -- look at smcFanControl (create a custom gaming setting that increases the minimum fan speed while you are playing games).

 

[ponder]

... look at smcFanControl (create a custom gaming setting that increases the minimum fan speed while you are playing games).

I doubt that works on windows...

 

[[)roi(]]

I doubt that works on windows...

For Windows via bootcamp try:
http://sourceforge.net/projects/macfan/
http://sourceforge.net/projects/lubbofancontrol/

 

[Rishalin]

As long as the vents are not covered you are good. I play MW3 on my pro for hours and have no issues.

Maybe get one of those stands which have built in fans for some extra cooling.

 

[Synaesthesia]

Perfectly normal. You can monitor temperatures via the free dashboard widget iStat, or iStat Nano. As long as temps stay below mid-80's, you're OK. And in my experience they do with the 2011 MBA, unless the ports are covered by a blanket or somethings.