Overclocking AMD FX 8370 may cause throttling problems
Overclocking AMD FX 8370 may cause throttling problems
I've been trying a multiplier overclock on my CPU to boost VR performance before the next generation release, which would require an upgrade.
I successfully turned off all BIOS features that were hindering me (such as powernow), activated custom power states and HPC, set it to 4.5Ghz, and achieved stable results.
The main problem is that under load, it usually works well but then drops to 1.4Ghz for a brief moment before recovering. After testing until late last night, I identified this as the reason for the consistent performance drops in VR. My stock settings seem to perform better without these unusual CPU spikes. The overclocked version shines when it doesn’t throttle.
I’m trying to understand what’s happening. My PSU is more than sufficient, and I have a Gamaxx 400 cooler, so I suspect the issue might be related to VRM throttling (the CPU never goes above 57°C, but even then it stays below 52°C, which is well under its max).
I’m not sure how to confirm this, as I’ve only overclocked one CPU before and haven’t experienced this before. Anyone have any advice?
The motherboard seems to feature a 4+1 VRM configuration, which is considered a weak setup. It does have a heatspreader that gives it an edge compared to some other boards, but it isn’t ideal for overclocking a 125w CPU. I strongly believe the issue lies with the VRMs.
The motherboard seems to feature a 4+1 VRM configuration, which is considered a weak setup. It does have a heatspreader that gives it an edge compared to some other boards, but it isn’t ideal for overclocking a 125w CPU. I strongly believe the issue lies with the VRMs.
Thank you for your questions. I’d like to understand how you came to that conclusion and where you obtained that information. I searched the site for my mobo but didn’t find any mention of VRMs. Regarding overclocking, would you prefer a more cautious approach or should I suggest starting higher? You’re thinking about pushing it to 4.2Ghz (100mhz above boost) to test performance, then gradually increasing it—this seems like a reasonable strategy based on your previous experience.
I noticed a review mentioning 5 phases, but they likely refer to 4 plus one. The impact depends on how critical the issue is if the motherboard stops working. Online protections exist, yet many users still seek assistance when their budget motherboards fail over time.
It was a budget motherboard, but if it breaks I can use it as a reason to upgrade to one with better VRMs. I intend to start a new build with Ryzen in about two years, so an AM4 board will be necessary. I've tested this morning and 4.3ghz is stable under load without throttling or extra voltage needed. Going to 4.4 and above needs more voltage, which seems to cause more random throttling, so I'll stick with 4.3 for now and consider it a success!
Wow, it seems almost impossible to purchase new AM3+ boards these days. I saw a recommendation for a Gigabyte GA-970A-UD3P ATX AM3+ board due to its 8+2 phase delivery, but I haven't been able to locate any stock for it. Probably best to consider refurbished motherboards if this one fails. Thanks!