Thursday, November 29, 2012

Overclocking a Processor


All processors come with a preset frequency at which it works. These types of processors don’t work above the maximum preset frequency by default. But the new ones like the Intel Core i5 and i7 processors come with internal Overclocking option. These processors have the capacity to over clock near 700 MHz. But the old processors won’t do it by default as they are designed not to do so. There are a lot of tech support websites that offers articles on different types of overclocking; but not all of them describe the harmful effects of manual overclocking.

What is Overclocking?
Overclocking is the process in which you set the processor to work at a frequency that is higher than its preset max value. When you overclock the processor, it can cause the processor do overwork and this causes overheating, increases RAM speed, leads to voltage drop etc. So, if you are planning on overclocking your processor on a whim, you will definitely smolder that piece of silicon.
Overclocking effects on processors are totally different. Same model processors will show different charts and levels when overclocked. If one shows performance, other will literally be on fire. The thing is that most Quad Core or Core 2 Duo processors don’t show any difference when overclocked. You should have an external cooler and good ventilation cabinet. Here are some instructions for Overclocking.

Instructions
1. Download the programs - CPU-z, OCCT, Prime95.
2. Open the BIOS settings from boot. In the advanced tab, change the FSB by 10 MHz, this is the minimum increment.
3. Go to Windows, check and continue this process until FSB equals 60 MHz. After that go to Windows and monitor the temperature with Real Temp. The CPU temperature should not be above 60oC.
4. Using the Diagnostic tools, check the RAM speed. Don’t let the RAM speed cross the rated speed. Also set PCIe frequency to 100. You can go to BIOS again and raise the FSB by 10 MHz. After that check the Processor and RAM status using OCCT for 1 hour.
5. Overclocking increases power consumption. So in case a BSOD occurs or black screen occurs or if the system restarts abnormally, go to BIOS and raise the VCORE voltage by minimum level.
6. When you find that FSB hits the limit, stop it there and drop it to the last point. In case you hit black screen or non boot situation, do a CMOS reset and restart.

If you check other tech support forums you can know about various other problems caused by Overclocking.

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