Hi there, clockers! I'm just starting out with overclocking and could use some tips to keep my system running smoothly.
Hi there, clockers! I'm just starting out with overclocking and could use some tips to keep my system running smoothly.
I own an Intel i7 4790k 4Ghz processor, a Z97 Gigabyte HD3 Rev 2.1 motherboard, Crucial Ballistix 16GB DD3 plus GSkill Triden X 8GB DDR3 (24 GB DDR3 memory), a Samsung 850 Evo 250GB SSD, a Gigabyte GTX 780 3gb Windforce overclocked GPU, a Corsair CX600 power supply, and an Intel Liquid CPU cooler 120mm by Asetek. Here is my stability test link: https://youtu.be/RiGjS0g7E8s
First: why are you increasing the speed beyond normal? What benefits are you hoping to gain from it? Are you aiming for everyday performance, faster execution of demanding tasks, or just wanting to impress others?
Second: remember that each processor has its own boundaries. Just because someone can achieve 4.6 on a 4790K doesn't guarantee the same result with your unit. My testing reached a maximum of 4.55 GHz at 1.28V.
Third: your motherboard might also be a constraint. Even with a powerful CPU, it won't perform optimally if the hardware isn't suitable.
Hi red. Thanks for the reply. I rely on it for creating 2k-4k videos and handling some heavy multitasking. I wonder if it comes with the box of my processor. My motherboard is quite user-friendly, offering easy tuning options, fan system adjustments, and a VTuner for graphics cards. To sum up, what should be the base vcore voltage for a 4.6ghz overclock?
It's important to recognize that a 4790K is essentially a factory-optimized version of a 4770K (using the same chip, just improved power circuits). Therefore, it already operates with a base clock of 4.0 GHz and a turbo boost at 4.4 GHz. This means you won't see significant gains from further adjustments. The typical outcome is maintaining the current turbo frequency.
I can't provide specific voltage requirements for stability at 4.6 GHz, as each chip behaves differently. I believe exceeding 1.3V causes unnecessary stress on the chip, and I wouldn't exceed 1.28V on a 4790K myself. For higher performance, set the VCore to 1.28V with a multiplier of 45 and observe the results.
If you're working in professional video production, remember that using overclocked hardware isn't just about speed—it can void warranties. Overclocking often introduces minor issues like glitches or artifacts due to rounding errors during computation.
I usually run mine from the BIOS, but you're free to choose another method. Certain operating system tools, such as Intel XTU, allow dynamic programmable settings depending on the app you're using—similar to how a programmable mouse can change its function based on the software. This feature is useful if you need to increase CPU performance for specific tasks. Generally, CPUs remain stable at higher clock speeds when the workload isn't too demanding, so you can maintain solid performance at 4.6 GHz while gaming even without running Prime95 AVX. The only drawback is that another process runs in the background.
I don’t do this because I believe it’s not worth risking my CPU’s longevity. My 2600K can reach up to 4.8 GHz, but I keep it at 4.0 to avoid extra power consumption, heat generation, and noise.
Thank you, but I'm having trouble with my BIOS. I need to perform pgup/pgdwn/+/- to set it up, but I can't double-click or enter the CPU core and vcore voltages. Using those + and - causes crashes, so I'm using software instead. I'm currently running at 4.6ghz with 1.305v and peak heat of 70sh at idle. Really appreciate your help online. :-D Does my different kind of RAM affect the overclock?