OCing without adding more cooling...?

[ikari120378]

I wonder if there's any indicator for us OCing a processor or vga in how far can we go without having to add more cooling system, but with a special condition like already cool room temperature, or "open case" which fresh air from room fan can get into freely.
Is it only a trial-error situation, where u have to do it step by step and see how things are working, or maybe u can just try to touch the heatsinks to find any unusual overheat, or else?
Is there any same heat-limit number that shouldn't be exceeded (100 degree C for any processor or vga, regardless the speed or brand or types, maybe?)
Thx :D

[Kov-Ice]

For a cpu, you can expect temps between 45 and 60C under full load. That's with stock cooling. Anything over 70C can be cause for some concern. Just monitor and see what temps you get.

I wouldn't leave case open, due to the amount of dust that can get into your case or accidentally touching a sensitive component. It also hampers the air flow caused by your fan setup.

[David M]

Don't expect much with stock heatsinks. I personally don't think the reward is worth the risk with stock cooling. Just keep a sharp eye on the temperatures.

[ror_b211]

I overclocked my 3.0ghz Prescott to 3.73ghz using the intel boxed cooler, and it peaks at 65 degrees (which is ok for prescott). I do have a well ventilated case, but Its summer over here (in UK) and the ambient temps get to about 30 degrees.

Not bad I thought anyway for std cooling