Overclocked to 3.7ghz, not exceeding the 3.5ghz limit.
Overclocked to 3.7ghz, not exceeding the 3.5ghz limit.
The system’s current power supply is sufficient for running the machine smoothly. Raising the power cap would enable the processor to operate at its peak capacity whenever temperatures allow. It’s straightforward: PL1 and PL2 represent the maximum draw limits. PL1 defines the continuous power ceiling, while PL2 sets the peak performance threshold. The peak can be maintained for up to 2.5 minutes without BIOS interference, assuming the CPU operates within its default 57W limit for Haswell HQ chips. This mechanism essentially provides a temporary boost, useful when sudden spikes occur—like intense gaming sessions or loading large assets. If your CPU usage jumps to 90% during demanding moments, PL2 would allow up to 57W for about 30 seconds before the system throttles back due to sustained load. On the flip side, if your game consistently demands a steady 55W, PL2 becomes irrelevant after a short time, forcing you down to PL1 limits. All Intel 4xxxHQ chips are capped at 47W for PL1, and altering this requires BIOS changes that aren’t feasible on most consumer models due to security features. The only workaround is using ThrottleStop’s “Power Cut” feature, which simulates lower draw without changing the hardware limits. You can’t permanently restrict CPU power without modifying the firmware, which is blocked by Secure Flash and Digital Signature requirements. Alternatives include lowering voltage (which reduces heat), repainting the laptop with better thermal paste, or elevating the device to improve airflow. Raising fan speed during heavy tasks might help, though it’s not always practical.
I've reorganized my laptop multiple times, applied fresh thermal paste and kept fans spinning at 7000rpm around the clock. I've undervolted it by 0.085v, which didn't significantly improve cooling but reduced thermal throttling from 3.14ghz to 3.25ghz. Occasionally I hit power limits, though most issues are due to heat rather than voltage. During a stress test, I reached 88°C.
I'm running fans at full power, emptied the laptop completely, lowered voltage, applied fresh thermal paste. I have a laptop cooler (not a pad) but placed it behind the machine with stands to boost airflow. I plan to use the throttle stop power cut feature. I also read a Google post suggesting you can turn off power limit throttling and will run stress tests to check the results.
Disabling power limit throttle on 4xxxHQ requires a power cut. This approach isn't feasible. The information I provided comes from my own i7 mobile guide, and other claims won't apply. It was intentionally designed by Intel to reduce power consumption.