Dust is a problem. Cat hair or any other airborne material is a problem. Why not exacerbate it with forced air. Instead of designing software or systems that stay cool, why not put a fan. And if you are going to have a fan, why not make it the noisiest thing in the world.
My Lenovo Thinkpad A31 is actually quieter than most computers, even new ones, that I have seen or used, but I fail to understand why such computer forced cooling features were ever designed. When working on anything you want peace and quiet. Concentration should never be compromised.
Here are some tips to keep your computer quiet, reducing CPU load, and thus the possiblity of your fan turning on :
* Turn off "Correct as you type" in Word or Firefox. In Openoffice, there was no change in performance, but the grammar checker Language Tool does make your CPU load go up and down. Perhaps newer versions of Word have the same problem with their grammar checker. Nevertheless, have some readover what ever you write.
* Use a "Limited Account" : Doing this will remove the need to install an anti-Virus/Malware suite that takes memory and CPU load. Though I like AMD`s idea of a third core for virus protection, most people just like to type. A 486 would still be adequate for many people today.
* Disable themes : My Computer icon - Properties - Advanced - Performance > Best Performance
* If you are technically inclined - spend about 1-5$ on Ebay and get "Thermal Paste". Apply some to your CPU and Heatsink. Go all out if you need a special grade but a simple dab of silicone fluid grease caused my CPU temperature to go down a whole 8C!
I will list more steps as I figure out how to make the best silent notebook I can!!!
