where's the ideal area too place my LCD thermal probe sensor in my case for testing case temp...

[Detoyminador_]

????

 

[Detoyminador_]

?

 

[Primus]

I have a Radio Shack Thermometer, it has a very small probe with long wire. Good for reaching inside heatsink etc....it has 2 probes, one external (long wire) and one on the unit itself for measuring current room temperature. It has a switch for C or F as well.

 

[Howard]

Try putting it next to the motherboard, but keep it away from the chipset.

Primus, good plug.

 

[fast_eddie]

Considering that hot air rises, near the top of the case is the optimal location to measure the highest temps. If you do a lot of work with a CDRW drive (in the top of a tower) put it near the lower rear of the drive. You could also experiment with different positions but just keep the thermistor away from a fans direct air flow, it may give you a false indication (lower temp reading than actual). This is a good way to discover any devices that would need additional attention for a fan.
Also any area that is in a 'dead airflow' area (blocked by the flat IDE/SCSI cables) is a prime location for running hotter than an adjacent part of the case.