Is it my CPU or my Mobo that's causing the issue?
Is it my CPU or my Mobo that's causing the issue?
I've recently upgraded to an ASRock Z97 Pro3 Mobo with an Intel i5-4670k CPU. The system functions properly with the default UEFI settings. The UEFI includes several straightforward auto OC options. In the main OC area, the top option bar lists; Disabled, 4.0GHz, 4.2GHz, and 4.4GHz all in white, followed by 4.6GHz, 4.8GHz, etc., marked in red. Clearly, it seems safe to increase the frequency to 4.4GHz, but going higher is risky.
I simply applied the auto white settings and tested each level. Everything operates smoothly up to and including the 4.2GHz setting, though attempting the 4.4GHz step consistently causes freezing crashes. Both my CPU and Mobo are second-hand, which might mean they've experienced prior overstressing, but they perform adequately at 4.2GHz during stress tests and in demanding games.
I’ve seen reports of some users pushing the 4670k to 6GHz (exceptional) and many achieving 4.8 and 5GHz. What are your thoughts? Have I purchased a subpar chip or is the Mobo’s auto OC feature compromised on the Pro3?
Your advice and any relevant OC guides or videos for these components would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Xigmatek 120mm fan air cooler paired with an OCZ ZX 1250W power supply.