CPU throttling without clear cause
CPU throttling without clear cause
I increased my FX-8300 to 4.2GHz with Turbo core turned off, C6 state and Cool & Quiet disabled. After stress testing with Intel Burn Test, the CPU stayed stable, and both CPU and MoBo temps stayed within limits. However, when CPU usage reached 100% across all cores, it throttled down to 1.4GHz for a short period. Then I tested Cinebench R15, which scored only about 20 points higher than the stock settings. Is this typical behavior? Should I expect performance issues while gaming? (I’ve heard R15 and burn tests can push the CPU beyond normal limits)
Looking at the board, it appears to support up to 140w CPUs, which should accommodate most FX CPUs available (except the 9000 series). Regarding overclocking options, it mainly depends on trial and error. I recommend beginning with stock settings, ensuring stability at 100% before gradually increasing frequency in 100mhz steps and re-testing.
I experienced comparable problems with an FX 8320 system a few years back. The problem seems to stem from the motherboard's VRM - if they can't handle the load, they may overheat and cause the CPU to reduce clock speeds to stabilize. What motherboard model are you using? Boards built around the 970 chipset, such as my previous one, are known for throttling under overclocking conditions.
Thanks for the question. I'm trying to understand the maximum OC frequency possible for this motherboard.
Thank you for the reply! But how do i do that maxing out part? From the bios or something?
The board appears to support up to 140w CPUs, which should accommodate most FX CPUs available (excluding the 9000 series). Regarding optimization options, it largely depends on experimentation. Begin with the stock configuration and verify that the frequency remains stable at 100% during initial testing. Gradually increase the frequency in 100mhz steps and reassess.
Additionally, consider adjusting the CPU voltages—reducing the core voltage slightly (under-volting) can enhance performance by easing VRM load. This might help avoid stability problems such as blue screens or system freezes. On my experience with the 8320, keeping the speed at stock while lowering the core voltage by around -0.2v improved both temperatures and power efficiency. You might find success by reducing the core voltage slightly (approximately -0.05 to -0.1V) without sacrificing much frequency.
Enhancing cooling for both the CPU and VRM is also beneficial, as cooler components consume less power and provide more headroom. Improving airflow around the VRM can further boost performance by maintaining lower operating temperatures.
There appears to be an option in BIOS related to long and short power limits.
I'm considering either reducing the voltage or improving the cooling setup. My CPU cooler has a solid 180W TDP, but I might need to add a heatsink for the VRMs.