Optimal configuration: Combine no LLC with a higher voltage setting or pair Mid-LLC with a lower voltage.
Optimal configuration: Combine no LLC with a higher voltage setting or pair Mid-LLC with a lower voltage.
I'm testing a 3770k at 4.5GHz with a +0.08V offset and no LLC. It's cooled by a Cryorig M9, so temperatures are near your target. The motherboard VCore reads 1.112V, and under Prime95 the load/VID/VCore ratio is 1.271/1.216. I know how LLC functions and don’t plan to change it beyond mid (50%). My goal is to see if a moderate LLC setting can reduce the positive offset for better stability without raising the reported voltage above the current 1.216V. Or should I stick with the present settings? In short, which approach keeps heat and voltage more in check? This applies broadly, not just to this model. I also have other CPUs I’d like to adjust based on this guidance. Appreciate your help.
This is not a thing, there is always a load line calibration. I assume you mean you are using the Intel default spec. This is definitely a simplification. High LLC can result in voltage spikes (and dips) that won't be captured by software voltage reporting. Running lower LLC is better. You can achieve the same overclock with lower Vcore, due to smaller transient spikes and dips. Basically, Vdroop is good, and it is okay to set a higher voltage in the BIOS with a lower LLC. Here is a good visualization and demonstration from Buildzoid:
Mid LLC benefits from effective voltage control up to the current level, with performance beyond that relying on board quality.
Thanks for the clarification. This GN/Buildzoid tutorial on LLC gives me a solid starting point. It's a straightforward summary that should be useful for anyone curious about the topic. Since the Cryorig M9 performs similarly to a 212 EVO, I'm not aiming for extreme overclocking. However, achieving stable overclocks with voltages above 4.5 isn't feasible, so I'm exploring LLC as a potential solution without risking damage.