Hello guys!
Anyone out there with high CPU usage issues by kernel_task when you have two monitors connected by Thunderbolt? CPU usage at 1300%. I have to shut down one monitor.
Have tested all the betas and the GM and nothing. In Yosemite works quiet.
My setup;
MacBookPro 15 Retina 2012
2.3 Core i7
16 GB RAM
2 monitors LG
Saw this thread. Normally run 3 monitors in clamshell mode. Have experienced this issue on and off but could not trace it. I have used Turbo boost (mostly on, sometimes off) Problem with high kernel_task would manifest and could not pinpoint. Restart always fixed
My 3 monitor setup: Main 4k LG (usb-c for power + monitor) Left 2560p 27" monoprice (usb-c to hdmi cable) Right 1080p 24" crap Acer ((usb-c to hdmi via hub)
I rearranged my set-up recently and ran into max kernel_task. It would repeatedly manifest when I opened a Safari window in TradingView. Only when I completely closed the window in TradingView, kernel_task would drop to normal.
A previous post mentioned turbo boost as a fix. I noticed I had turbo boost toggled to OFF. I turned Turbo boost ON and the kernel_task problem went away after repeating test going to tradingView
At this point, I believe the kernel_task issue is solved by using Turbo boost The other suggestion is to use the right side ports to power and run the 4k monitor
Highly recommend ...! purchasing SwitcResX to match resolutions across 3 monitors
Current 3 monitors resolutions (all 60 hz)
Main 4k LG ---> set at mid res = 3008 x1692
Left 2560p 27" monoprice ---> = 3008 x1692
Right 1080p 24" Acer ---> = 3008 x1692
SwitcResX does a fantastic job rendering text, making it legible
Also recommend turning off: (as recommended in one of the posts above) System Preferences -> Battery -> Power Adapter -> DISABLE/UNCHECK "Automatic graphics switching"
MacBook Pro (15-inch, 2018) 2.9 GHz 6-Core Intel Core i9 Radeon Pro 560X 4 GB Monterey 12.7.3
Will post if encounter issues again, but definitely Turbo boost solved my issues right away when Turbo boost was OFF
Hope this helps someone still using an intel MacBook that can easily run 3 monitors gracefully (including a 4th when not in clamshell mode)
Ros