Intel I7-3740QM lacks turboboost functionality.
Intel I7-3740QM lacks turboboost functionality.
Thanks in advance, Panda
Hello from Germany, I recently purchased a used Dell Precision m6700 with the specified CPU. It turns out the processor doesn’t turbo at all above its base clock of 2.7GHz. I checked the BIOS and even installed Intel Extreme Tuning utilities, but nothing pushes it beyond the base speed. Anyone familiar with this situation? A first-time Intel user, any advice would be appreciated Thanks in advance, Panda
Offenbach966
02-27-2016, 03:44 PM #3Review the Maximum processor state in Windows Power Options. It must read 100%. Lower readings will turn off Intel Turbo Boost. If Intel Extreme Tuning Utility (XTU) doesn’t resolve your issue, install ThrottleStop from TechPowerUp and give it a shot. It unlocks advanced CPU configurations unavailable through XTU. https://www.techpowerup.com/download/tec...ottlestop/ For troubleshooting help, ensure Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributables are installed and download both x86 and x64 versions from the provided link. https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help...le-package Share relevant images of ThrottleStop if needed to assist with setup. Verify two key settings: Disable Turbo should remain unchecked, and confirm your Turbo Ratio Limits are correctly configured (defaults: 37, 37, 36, 35 from top to bottom). This processor also allows limited overclocking, enabling performance beyond its standard specifications. I’ll assist further once the initial issue is addressed. Run the TS Bench test with a single thread setting and capture a screenshot of ThrottleStop during execution to review its configuration and reported multipliers.
Phineus1002
02-27-2016, 04:28 PM #4Here we are. The spec is 3.5GhZ with one core, but in the settings it only shows choices like "37 36 35 35." Not the double "37." I’m getting closer now.
vicvic531531
03-01-2016, 10:11 PM #5I usually use CPU World to find out what the default Turbo Ratio Limits are supposed to be but for the 3740QM, I think CPU World is wrong. CPU World 3740QM - (probably wrong) http://www.cpu-world.com/CPUs/Core_i7/Intel-Core i7-3740QM Mobile processor - AW8063801105000 - BX80638I73740QM.html 37, 37, 36, 35 Wikipedia 3740QM - (probably right) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_In...processors 37, 36, 35, 35 During the TS Bench 1 Thread test, you need to close background apps including the Task Manager. Only have ThrottleStop open on the desktop. Show a screenshot of what ThrottleStop shows for the multiplier while the CPU is loaded. The Task Manager, etc., will keep more than 1 core active which will drop the maximum multiplier. Show me a screenshot of the TRL and TPL windows. I am pretty sure that the 3740QM supports +4 bins of turbo overclocking. That means instead of 37, 36, 35, 35 this CPU might be able to go as high as 41, 40, 39, 39 Even though your CPU supports limited overclocking, it is possible that Dell locked out this feature.
squirreler1023
03-01-2016, 10:53 PM #6Here we are. As you mentioned, there was nothing in the background. Not even Task Manager. Restarted and ran the test. I’m hoping this provides a clearer picture of what’s happening.
When examining the main display of ThrottleStop, the monitoring table on the right lists a value under Modulation. It reveals that all your CPU threads are operating at a Clock Modulation setting of 75.0. Dell frequently applied this throttling during that time, often without clear justification. This practice could cause significant performance drops, sometimes rendering the laptop unusable.
In a well-functioning machine, both the Mod and Chip columns should read 100.0, confirming no throttling. Your CPU temperature is only 53°C, so throttling shouldn’t occur. Even at higher temperatures, it shouldn’t be restricting clock speed. Other manufacturers avoided this approach; Dell was the exception.
The original purpose of ThrottleStop was to counter such excessive throttling. For more context on Dell’s actions, refer to the well-known Throttle Gate paper (24 MB download). It provides detailed insights into this issue.
To address it, in ThrottleStop’s left panel, verify the Clock Modulation setting and ensure it’s at 100.0%. After adjusting, run benchmark tests and monitor the table on the right. This should help maintain the desired 100.0% threshold.
Regarding Turbo Power Limits, ThrottleStop reveals Dell locked both Long and Short Turbo Power limits, plus PP0 Current Limit. These cannot be changed—this was standard at the time. Consequently, the CPU will disregard any adjustments. Without a modified BIOS, no further changes are possible.
If you’re using an authentic Dell power adapter, consider testing with a genuine one. Some Dell devices can throttle if you use third-party adapters. Share more images for better analysis. Clock Modulation should read 100, and the multiplier should be significantly higher during single-thread tests.
Your images convey a different message. Within the Turbo Ratio Limits area, it displays Turbo Overclocking as Locked with a value of +4. This indicates that your 3740QM can indeed handle four levels of turbo boost, theoretically allowing you to push your CPU to 400 MHz. The issue arises because Dell, aiming for a business-focused design, chose to disable this capability by setting the Lock bit. All controls in the Turbo Ratio Limits panel are fixed, and the BIOS locks the CPU once started.
When examining the main display of ThrottleStop, the monitoring table on the right lists a value under Modulation. It reveals that all your CPU threads are operating at a Clock Modulation setting of 75.0. Dell frequently applied this throttling during that time, often without clear justification. This practice could cause significant performance drops, sometimes rendering the laptop unusable.
In a well-functioning machine, both the Mod and Chip columns should read 100.0, confirming no throttling. Your CPU temperature is only 53°C, so throttling shouldn’t occur. Even at higher temperatures, it shouldn’t be restricting clock speed. Other manufacturers avoided this approach; Dell was the exception.
The original purpose of ThrottleStop was to counter such excessive throttling. For more context on Dell’s actions, refer to the well-known Throttle Gate paper (24 MB download). It provides detailed insights into this issue.
To address it, in ThrottleStop’s left panel, verify the Clock Modulation setting and ensure it’s at 100.0%. After adjusting, run benchmark tests and monitor the table on the right. This should help maintain the desired 100.0% threshold.
Regarding Turbo Power Limits, ThrottleStop reveals Dell locked both Long and Short Turbo Power limits, plus PP0 Current Limit. These cannot be changed—this was standard at the time. Consequently, the CPU will disregard any adjustments. Without a modified BIOS, no further changes are possible.
If you’re using an authentic Dell power adapter, consider testing with a genuine one. Some Dell devices can throttle if you use third-party adapters. Share more images for better analysis. Clock Modulation should read 100, and the multiplier should be significantly higher during single-thread tests.
We finally reached 3.5GhZ!!! Wow! Yep, I’m using a real Dell power adapter and cable. I got a replacement from a Dell reseller for this model. You mentioned a "modified" BIOS—got it? I’m curious about that. Wouldn’t mind trying it out. Especially since I’m planning to tweak the graphics card too. I really hate being stuck at 135MHz on this machine—it’s nowhere near its advertised over 600MHz base clock speed. Thanks a ton for your help!
Dan_playz_MC
03-24-2016, 10:22 AM #9Excited to hear another success. A consistent 35 multiplier with all four cores running is impressive. Expect a significant boost in power use and CPU temperatures—this indicates the processor is operating at its intended capacity, no longer being limited by throttling. Hopefully you’re using or have access to an SSD for installation; this can make a big difference. I noted you’d need a modified BIOS for overclocking, but I don’t have one for your laptop—maybe MSI Afterburner could help manage GPU performance. You might not need to adjust chipset modulation unless you’re targeting specific settings. Avoid unnecessary checks on throttling settings; they’re usually harmless and probably not required. Best of luck pushing your M6700 further!