cpu temp vs case temp

[alexXx]

I have my new a64 3000+ @ 2ghz(since i just got it) When i run motherboard monitor the case temp is higher than the cpu temp when idling. ie. cpu 35 case 41.
How is this possible? where is the 'case' sensor.. is it the sensor that came with the powersupply ro is it on the montherboard?

mobo, msi k8t neo 2-fir(k8t800pro chipset) updated to latest bios.
under load, the 'case' temp doesnt really raise much but the cpu temp does, which is how it should be

 

[alexXx]

i wanna know about this stuff before i overclock more

 

[Navid]

I don't know that motherboard.
But, it is not unusual for the motherboard temperature to be higher than the CPU at idle. It is mainly because of the voltage regulator components (MOS transistors) that get too hot.

Edit:
Motherboard monitor does not have access to your PSU sensor. It has access to the sensor on the motherboard.

 

[imported_asfd]

I believe something must be wrong with the sensor or software. I have run both P4 and
a64 on with antec true 430 psu, and never observed that momb's temp is higher is than
CPU, IMHO that does not make sense at all.
my rig: asus k8n nforce-3, a64 3000+, oced to 2.2ghz, 1g crucial pc3200, true430 psu.
The cpu temp is around 40, and 40-50 when loaded; case temp 33 idling.
If not oced, the cpu's idling temp is only 31-35 etc.

 

[Navid]

There are many motherboards that are warmer than the CPU AT IDLE. This is because voltage regulators dissipate a lot of power.

One exmple is P4P800 from ASUS (P4).

Under load, the CPU is usually warmer than the motherboard.