Increase CPU voltage beyond recommended levels for this processor.
Increase CPU voltage beyond recommended levels for this processor.
I constructed my desktop five years ago using these parts: CPU: i7-7700K @ 4.20 GHz (Turbo boost: 4.5GHz) [delidded]; Mobo: Asus Maximus IX Extreme; GPU: Gigabyte GTX 1080 Ti Waterforce WB Xtreme Edition 11G RAM: 32GB - G.Skill Trident Z RGB; DDR4 3600Mhz; 32GB (8GBx4); 16-16-16-36 PSU: Seasonic PRIME 850W Titanium Custom Cooling; Radiator: two units (520x30x60mm); Fans: eight Noctua (120x120x15mm); Pump: EK-XRES 140 Revo D5. Today I chose to overclock the CPU first time. Using Intel Extreme Tuning Utility, I reached 4.9GHz with Core Voltage at 1.375-1.325V. The outcome was stable; stress tests via OCCT passed without errors. Temperatures stayed around 80-75°C. However, the Vcore value fluctuated during idle—oscillating between 1.408V and 1.424V, while during stress it hovered near 1.408V to 1.344V. Initially I doubted HWiNFO64 readings, but measuring with a multimeter confirmed them accurate. In idle conditions, I recorded Vcore around 1.42V, 1.37V and 1.405V. Should I be concerned? Why does the reading differ? Some forums warn not to exceed 1.4V for this model. I aim to push it to 5GHz but worry about Vcore spiking above 1.4V. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thanks. Edited October 24, 2022 by parmi93 Incorrect data and screenshots
The 1.45V idle works on some chips, and 1.405V is nearly sufficient for long-term use. However, I’d likely opt for overclocking via the BIOS rather than XTU, as XTU tends to behave oddly with older CPUs (though it might have improved since then). Adjusting VRM settings can help achieve a more stable voltage pattern, especially the LLC level. For example, setting 1.3V on the Z170 OC Formula with LLC Level 1 results in 1.36V during load, while 1.4V with Level 4 LLC gives 1.35V under load. You may need to tweak the LLC values to find better regulation—this is especially true for the Maximus IX Extreme, where the best setting probably falls in the middle range. Also, a 4.9GHz build requiring 1.4V at the socket seems problematic for a delidded 7700K; it could indicate either a faulty CPU or an XTU bug making overclocks less reliable (the latter seems more likely given the HWiNFO data). Generally, aiming for 1.4V is better for stable high-frequency operation.
Thank you for your response. I see the data and screenshots were incorrect, so I updated the post with the corrections. I plan to attempt running my CPU at 5GHz but will monitor the Vcore to ensure it stays below 1.4V. Following your advice, I’ll adjust the LLC settings accordingly.
When under load, a voltage below 1.4V is acceptable. If the idle level drops below 1.45V, it’s still okay. You should be able to reach 5GHz on most 7700K boards with a 1.35V load, but consider tweaking the VDroop a bit—especially on ASUS systems where lower LLC levels mean higher VDroop. Adjusting the voltage settings can help too. Also, experimenting with the Uncore frequency (cache speed) may boost performance, particularly for gaming if you aim for around 4.6–4.7GHz.