Overclocking specific cores in the i7 7740x
Overclocking specific cores in the i7 7740x
Hi there,
I'm a user of flight simulators and specifically use Prepar3d. It's a very CPU-heavy program, often running CPU #0 at full capacity continuously. The remaining seven cores are kept at lower usage levels (around 60-70%).
Given this setup, I want to attempt an overclock on my i7 7740x to reach 5 GHz for the main core while keeping the other three at a reduced frequency (like 4.6 GHz). However, when starting up, the system maintains synchronization with the lower frequency in this scenario.
I've tried adjusting settings in the BIOS but haven't found a clear reason why the cores stay synchronized. I'm seeking guidance on how to properly overclock my i7 7740x so that only Core #0 operates at 5 GHz, while the remaining cores run at 4.6 GHz.
Best regards
I've experimented with setting threads individually before – it's really problematic, especially for overclocking.
There are two main problems with this approach:
1) You should be aware that each thread behaves differently; its maximum overclock potential and response to different voltages vary greatly. You'd have to determine the stable Vcore for every thread, which is much more time-consuming than checking all cores.
2) This method completely disrupts overclocking efforts: you can't adjust AVX settings per thread.
When AVX is activated—whether enabled or not—all threads will operate at the same frequency. And if you don’t grasp what this means...
I've experimented with setting threads separately before – it’s really problematic, especially when trying to overclock.
There are two main problems for those who overclock:
1) You should be aware that each thread behaves differently; its maximum overclock potential and compatibility with specific voltages vary a lot. You’d have to determine the stable Vcore for every thread, which is time-consuming compared to handling all cores.
2) This approach completely breaks the process for overclockers: you can’t adjust AVX settings individually per thread.
When AVX activates—whether due to an offset or not—all threads will run at the same frequency. And if you don’t grasp what that means...
If you’ve already done individual thread OC and experienced AVX activation during a game, browsing, or benchmarking, then your slower cores are now forced to match the highest frequency of the fastest thread, no matter the offset—leading to crashes or BSODs!
You need to rely on auto voltage control for each thread.
Wow, I didn't expect such a high number of purchases for this chip.
When games utilize every single core, aim to exceed the standard 4.3 GHz in an all-core load situation. Many models reach 4.6-4.7 GHz without problems (the 7700K also hits that range, and the 7740X is just a rebranded version for socket 2066 with a 100 MHz boost under full core usage), which could set a solid target for maximizing all four cores.