Are the HWiNFO64 readings accurate for these voltage measurements?
Are the HWiNFO64 readings accurate for these voltage measurements?
The CPU core voltage is configured at 1.300, while VCCSA and VCCIO are set to 1.220 with the LLC in High. The CPU-Z displays the core voltage at 1.320. I'm wondering why the voltages appear higher on the VID readout. I understand what VID is, but perhaps my interpretation is incorrect. Temperatures remain stable between 22°C and 28°C during idle, and around 80°C under load. All drivers, updates, and the BIOS are current.
VID and actual core voltage (Vcore) are distinct concepts.
The mentioned settings for VCCIO and VCCSA appear quite high. Of course, I haven’t performed any overclocking or tested a 9900k yet, but for older generations in general, even with moderate overclocks, voltages typically range from .95 to 1.12v based on the specific level and hardware.
Also, at 5Ghz it’s still within a reasonable range since the all-core boost is already around 4.7Ghz; I’m not sure a very high LLC would be necessary.
The VID and actual core voltage are distinct concepts.
These configurations for VCCIO and VCCSA appear quite high. Of course, I haven’t performed any overclocking or tested a 9900k yet, but for older generations in general, even with moderate overclocks, voltages typically range between .95 to 1.12v, depending on the specific level and hardware.
At 5Ghz, which is a reasonable increase from the current 4.7Ghz boost, I’m not convinced a high LLC is essential. A medium LLC setting would be a safer approach, allowing you to test stability first. You might be risking your thermal setup unnecessarily. Very high or extreme LLC should generally only be used under extremely demanding overclock scenarios where vdroop causes significant instability. If that’s the case, it makes sense; otherwise, begin lower and adjust as needed. I wouldn’t jump to the highest settings without proper testing.
I have carried out a lot of overclocking on a 9900k and completely support Darkbreeze. You seem to have excessive LLC and probably too much VCCIO/VCCSA. The voltages you apply depend on the memory kit you're using. I wouldn't expect to need more than 1.1v on either unless you're pushing very high memory speeds or tight timings. Running LLC at such high levels is not advisable. When you switch from a heavy current load to a lighter one, voltage spikes can become significant enough to damage your CPU due to excessive LLC. If you're increasing voltage beyond what the BIOS sets for a high-current situation, you risk this issue. Boosting voltage from the BIOS setting in a high-current scenario puts you at risk. LLC is meant to raise voltage to the CPU to counteract voltage drops when it draws a lot of current. The issue lies in its inability to cut off instantly once the CPU stops drawing much current, which can lead to dangerous short-term spikes if set too high. I usually prefer seeing 10-20 mv of droop between idle and load at sensible V-core settings, especially if you're pushing the CPU's safe limits. Running the V-core a bit higher and using less LLC would be better. I never exceeded turbo at 1.3V on that board during my time there. That should maintain stable voltage across both low and high current conditions. At 1.3V this should work well. If you can really increase the voltage, lowering LLC slightly would help you notice a small droop between idle and full load.