Can't adjust the CPU ratio beyond 42 for i5 3570k
Can't adjust the CPU ratio beyond 42 for i5 3570k
I've just acquired an Oculus Rift and am eager to maximize its performance with my 3570k. I'm attempting to overclock it at 4.5 but the ratio is stuck below 42. Despite understanding the basics, I'm puzzled as to why it can't reach higher levels. I've also tried using a BIOS tool (Toverclocker) to adjust the speed, but the ratio remains capped at 40. CPU-Z indicates my core speed is 4000.50 MHz, which shouldn't be 4200 MHz. It's unclear why I'm unable to set it to 45. I've updated my BIOS to the latest version, yet the issue persists. Any insights would be greatly appreciated.
I've attached a video of my overclocking attempt here:
https://streamable.com/oz3lx
Your setup probably has all FOUR CORES active, which explains the "x40" boost. Even without full utilization it should still reflect that level.
*Consider adjusting every core to 42 and observe the outcome. Proceed to 43 and beyond.
If the system starts up but then crashes, you might need to tweak the voltage. I suspect the POWER LIMIT is involved. If that's the case, begin with the lowest power setting and gradually increase it. Should a crash occur, try increasing the POWER setting to possibly stabilize performance (though this may raise temperature).
Generally, the balance lies between multiplier and voltage, aiming for minimal power consumption.*
I tested an i7-3770K at 4.5GHz, increased to 4.6GHz and experienced a crash, so I settled on 4.4GHz for stability. The PSU, motherboard, CPU (silicon lottery), and cooler all played a role.
I attempted 4.6GHz but adjusting voltage raised the temperature by about 15°C, possibly triggering some power-saving mechanisms. I doubted that would be worth it for minimal performance gain.
A decent cooler such as the Cryorig H7 or H5 Ultimate would help reach higher clock speeds (assuming other components are fine).
My current Noctua NH-D14 uses older 3-pin fans, but for most users a $45 cooler is better than a $70 one with similar cooling.
If you check CPU temperatures via HWMonitor, aim for around 75°C as your maximum under full load (like Handbrake at 100% usage). However, under realistic conditions—such as Prime95 which is very demanding—temperatures could exceed 80°C.*
Your setup seems to have all four cores active, which likely triggers the "x40" multiplier. Even if they aren't fully used, the system may still interpret that way.
*Consider adjusting each core to a lower number like 42 and observe the outcome. Proceed to 43, then higher values.*
If the system starts up but then crashes, you might need to tweak the voltage settings. I suspect the power limit configuration is involved. If that's the case, begin with the lowest power setting and gradually increase it. If issues persist, try raising the power level, which could help stabilize performance (especially at higher temperatures).
This process usually involves balancing multiplier and voltage while keeping power consumption minimal.
*I used an i7-3770K with 4.5GHz, increased to 4.6GHz and experienced a crash. To remain stable I reduced the clock speed to 4.4GHz. The PSU, motherboard, CPU (silicon lottery), and cooler all played a role. Voltage adjustments caused temperature spikes of about 15°C. I thought cooling might help but found it too noisy for significant improvement.*
You'll likely need a decent cooler such as the Cryorig H7 or H5 Ultimate to support higher clock speeds (assuming other components are functioning).
*My Noctua NH-D14 uses older 3-pin fans, but for most users, a $45 USD cooler would offer better value compared to a $70 Noctua unit with similar cooling. I've experimented with 4.6GHz and found that adjusting voltage increased temperatures by around 15°C, possibly disabling power-saving features. Cooling might be the key here.*
*Using CPU IDs and monitoring tools like HWMonitor, aim for a maximum temperature of 75°C under full load (like Handbrake at 100%). For realistic stress, consider 100% load but avoid extreme software like Prime95, which could push temperatures over 80°C.
I've tried disabling Turbo Mode and setting Core Ratio Limits to 43, but the system automatically reverts to 42 for the first two cores and then to lower numbers. I haven't adjusted voltages yet since I'm not exceeding 4.2 GHz. It's puzzling why it keeps changing back. Thanks for your help.*
update your bios and attempt once more... turn off turbo mode and check if manual adjustments work. I've reset and disabled turbo mode before, but it still brings everything back to 42 when I go further.