Intel microcode version 0x129 problems
Intel microcode version 0x129 problems
Today I worked with the final Intel system I built, which is now the last one (others switched to AMD). I brought it in for a BIOS update. Before flashing, I ran some tests and everything seemed normal for an Intel rig. The client reported a few blue screens with random timing issues. I ran MemTest twice with 2x4 runs and everything passed. I updated the Z790 Taichi motherboard BIOS using the latest AsRock microcode (0x129 update). After that, the PC started cycling to BIOS with memory set higher than the default (4800MHz), which was fine at 7600 XMP. Once I confirmed the memory speed was correct (6000MHz max) and loaded Windows, the CPU ran at 78°C idle and only 1% utilization during load. I suspect the thermal paste might have been faulty—removed the AIO, cleaned the old paste, applied a new one, and temperatures dropped to 71–79°C across all cores. Before the update, it was around 55°C idle and 100–105°C under load. The VDD_CPU voltage also changed slightly to 1.296V from 1.425V. Any thoughts? Have others tried this fix? Is there something missing?
So after several tries to locate a stable configuration that wouldn’t turn the system into a fanheater, the CPU decided to fix the issue by essentially shutting down itself—basically committing a self-destruct. Now it’s completely dead, and I sent it back to my dealer via RMA. If I had to guess, it was likely already beyond repair and heading straight toward failure. The lesson here is to be cautious when installing new microcode updates and to check the feedback on the Intel website before proceeding.