Overclocking Gigabyte P45 Process
Overclocking Gigabyte P45 Process
Specifications:
Mainboard: Gigabyte GA-EP45-UD3R
Processor: Intel Xeon X5470 @4.00 GHz
Memory: 16 GB DDR2 @830
@830 MHz
Graphics: Gigabyte Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060
Storage: Samsung 850 Evo 500GB, Western Digital Blue 500GB
Power: Rosewill Glacier 700W 80+ Bronze
Additional details:
Load-Line Calibration: ENABLED
Virtualization: DISABLED
Spread Spectrum: DISABLED
CPU Voltage: 1.38v
RAM Voltage: 1.80v
FSB: 400 MHz
CPU Multiprocessor: 10x
CPU Fine Control: OFF
I have disabled nearly all unnecessary CPU parameters, including thermal throttling and stepping.
The problem remains unchanged regardless of adjustments. I attempted to run Prime95 small FFTs for extended periods without crashes, maintaining a maximum temperature around 70°C. Memtest86 also completed without errors during overnight use. The RAM is not overclocked despite its 800 MHz rating. I modified timings and increased voltage, but the instability continued.
I have reviewed previous discussions and tweaked some voltage settings, yet results were inconsistent or worse. Despite software trials using Windows 7 and Windows 10, removing the Page File, updating drivers, and adjusting microcode, crashes persisted. The memory is set to double the FSB speed, which was expected per older advice, but any further tweaks failed to resolve the issue. I have also turned off unused motherboard features.
Testing every memory slot, resetting CMOS, and applying simple fixes yielded no improvement. I require a solution beyond standard configurations. When stable operation occurs, performance exceeds 100 FPS in DOOM at high settings. This system is exceptionally unstable, especially in games. Possible causes include driver issues, software conflicts, or incomplete updates. All troubleshooting steps on a clean Windows installation have been exhausted. Drivers were downloaded directly from the manufacturer’s site.
I’m at a loss and would appreciate your help—this machine frequently crashes during editing, even without overclocking the RAM.
Just to note, replace the thermal compound under the MCH since they are outdated.
The max core voltage for the MCH is 1.36/1.38 as I've used; I wouldn't recommend using 2.4-2.6V on the RAM without a heatsink.
My CPU voltage was high only during benchmark tests, not for extended use.
I'm uncertain about the safest voltage for FSB, but you can look it up online.
To achieve a 1:1 ratio, for example, if your RAM runs at 900Mhz, your FSB should be 455Mhz.
Sorry for cluttering this post, I had to edit and add details to prevent losing my typing progress as my phone refreshes and loses data.
I suggest lowering the RAM divider to the lowest possible ratio, then when increasing the FSB you should reduce the CPU multiplier to maintain higher performance.
Just to note before, replace the thermal compound under the MCH since they’re considered outdated. The maximum voltage for the core is around 1.36 or 1.38, and I haven’t found it safe to use 2.4-2.6V on the RAM without a heatsink. My CPU voltage was high only during benchmark tests, not for extended use. I’m uncertain about the safest voltage for FSB, but you can look it up online. To achieve a 1:1 ratio, if your RAM runs at 900Mhz, your FSB should be set to 455Mhz. I apologize for posting too much at once; I had to edit and add details to prevent losing my typing progress as my phone would refresh and lose data. I recommend lowering the RAM divider to its lowest possible setting, then adjusting the multiplier for the CPU when increasing FSB to maintain a 1:1 ratio. Aiming for a RAM divider of 1:1 means both components should run in sync—ideally around 800Mhz. As you raise the FSB, your RAM speed will increase and you’ll reach that target more quickly. For load line calibration during high overclocks, it’s usually not necessary unless you’re monitoring voltage drops. You’ll need to boost the MCH (North Bridge) voltage; the safe RAM voltage is about 2.1V. Experiment with settings—your motherboard should show the voltage level, changing from blue through yellow to red as it approaches the maximum. If you find a guide for my Q6600 at 3.6GHz with stock cooling (OCZ 1066→1200Mhz), it worked with a multiplier of 5-5-5-18-1T (first three values sum to the fourth, or 6-6-6-18-1T which are slightly more relaxed). Using UD3R-P45 is recommended.
Do you have instructions for swapping out the MCH thermal compound? Also, is the type of paste you choose important? You mentioned using Thermal Grizzly, Arctic Silver 5, and Noctua paste.
So just an update...I thoroughly cleaned the motherboard, removed everything from the chassis and started from scratch (even removed a USB 3.0 Header and replaced it with a USB 2.0 Header - just because the motherboard can't use it), then reassembled and now it seems to be working fine. Was just averaging above 100 FPS in DOOM, ran a stable 60 FPS in Naruto Shippuden: Ultimate Ninja Storm 4 and Dark Souls 3. All of these games were played at ultra settings. This machine doesn't feel that old anymore. The only thing I can say is one of the fans appear to be making noise, and I don't think the Noctua NH-D14 CPU Cooler can keep up with the heat of the processor, though maybe this could be due to overall poor airflow in the case (it does have cheap fans after all.)