Thermal Design Power (TDP)

Thermal Design Power (TDP) is a metric that indicates the maximum amount of heat a computer component, like a CPU or GPU, is expected to generate under typical maximum load. It helps engineers determine the appropriate cooling solutions to keep the component operating safely and efficiently. TDP isn’t the exact power consumption but a guide for designing cooling systems, ensuring the component doesn’t overheat during normal usage. Essentially, it’s a benchmark for cooling requirements, aiding in maintaining performance and preventing damage due to excessive heat.