How much CPU overclocking is possible with a 980 processor?
How much CPU overclocking is possible with a 980 processor?
Hi there.
I just joined after reading a lot and have to say this platform is quite active!
Well done to all the experts and helpful tips!
I’m trying to customize my motherboard/CPU for compatibility with the new 980, since my system is a bit old but still performs well.
I’m hoping someone with a similar setup or close by can help me out. Thanks ahead of time!
I came across information about bottlenecks and believe the CPU is currently the limiting factor. I’m aiming for around 3.5 Ghz+ without affecting RAM speed.
Here’s what I have:
- AMD Phenom II X6 1055T
- 16 GB RAM (maximum supported by my motherboard)
- Kingston HyperX 1866 MHz 10 CL
- Crosshair IV Formula
- Kuhler 620 - water cooling
- GTX 980 Strix
- 120 GB SSD
Currently, the RAM is running at 1866 MHz, but the motherboard caps performance much lower. Even though the manufacturer claims up to 2000 MHz OC in their specs, I’m not sure it will work with this configuration.
I’m quite confident some adjustments could improve things.
For reference, I checked CPU-Z and found an overview here: http://valid.x86.fr/ph46pz
I also ran an automatic CPU overclock just to test functionality, which matches the information in the link.
Appreciate any advice!
Yes, the CPU is definitely limiting the GPU performance in some games. With the Black Edition, overclocking becomes straightforward. Disable turbo mode and boost the clock multiplier. The maximum increase you can achieve while maintaining stability depends on various factors. Every chip and board behaves differently. However, raising the multiplier will eventually require increasing the core voltage to restore stability. Keep it below 1.5V. That should be your main consideration. Determine how far you can push the multiplier without exceeding AMD's suggested maximum of 1.5v (riskier if you go further). The bad news is that even with higher clock speeds on the aging hexacore, the GTX 980 will still face limitations.
Yes, the CPU is definitely limiting the GPU performance in some games. With the Black Edition, overclocking becomes straightforward. Disable turbo mode and boost the clock multiplier. The maximum increase you can achieve while maintaining stability depends on various factors. Every chip and board behaves differently. However, raising the multiplier will eventually require increasing the core voltage to restore stability. Keep it below 1.5V. That should be your main consideration. Determine how far you can push the multiplier without exceeding AMD's suggested maximum of 1.5v (riskier if you go further). The bad news is that even with higher clock speeds on the aging hexacore, the GTX 980 will still face limitations.
I'll give it a shot eventually.
Currently, when I play at very high settings, the CPU temperature is about 45°C. This isn't the overclocked version, so it might not be necessary to overclock until I start playing more demanding games. I'll keep updating here.
Thanks for now.