Accuracy of CPU temperature information

[nurbs]

When I use software to look at the temperature of my CPU is that measured by the CPU itself or is there a sensor on the mainbord/socket that does that. The reason that I'm asking is that the temperature of my core i7 under full load (50 °C) is lower than I would have expected.

[Asmodian]

When I use software to look at the temperature of my CPU is that measured by the CPU itself or is there a sensor on the mainbord/socket that does that. The reason that I'm asking is that the temperature of my core i7 under full load (50 °C) is lower than I would have expected.

There is a sensor inside each core of the i7, which temperature program are you using to read the temp? Are you getting each core's temperature?

I like RealTemp, it is free and has worked well for me.
RealTemp 3.40 (http://www.techpowerup.com/downloads/1691/Real_Temp_3.40.html)

[nurbs]

I used a program that came with my mainboard and RealTemp agrees with the 50° +/- 2° on each core. Thanks for the help.