Phenom II x4 955 automatically reduces clock speed to 800MHz
Phenom II x4 955 automatically reduces clock speed to 800MHz
Hello guys, pardon me about my lack of knowledge about OC-ing and my language. It's my first time doing OC on a fully unlocked processor and I'm talking via my non native language.
So here's the thing. I've managed to OC my Phenom II x4 955 125w (BE I think, haven't got time to check the part number) around 3.7 stable on Prime95 for about an hour without any errors or BSoD. Core temps are good at around 49-58 (they say 61 is the roof max recommended) since i've tightened the voltage down to 1.32. If im right I can still push through 4.0+ without any problem and I did boot through 4.0 successfully, just stepped down to 3.7 to avoid heat and heavy power consumption.
But the problem is that whether stock clock, stock overclock or manual overclock.. CPU clock speed automatically downclocks itself to 800mhz each and everytime it hits 61 or 65 degrees celsius ONLY WHEN STRESS TESTED and WHILE 100% CPU USAGE, but normally without being stress tested and while gaming, it looks like it runs at a stable OC speed without downclocking itself. So this is just literally when stress testing.
Ok so to narrow down the issue, I've already uninstalled Cool N Quiet driver and just disabled it via BIOS, same as the fan controls are raised to max rpm and the power plan set to high performance.
SPEC:
Procy: AMD Phenom II X4 955 125w Quad Core
Motherboard: Asus M4N68T-M LE V2
Cooler: Coolerman M-X4 Tower Cooler (Dual Fan, 4 Heatpipe)
RAM: Kingston DDR3 6GB (4GB + 2GB) 1333mhz
OS: Win 10 Pro
GPU: GT220 Gainward 1GB
I'm well aware I have a poor motherboard for OC-ing (lacking VRM heatsink and of quality), that's the reason why i don't push too much but the problem still persist even at stock speed. I am well aware that my after market cooler is not that popular but it does the job well as a tower cooler, i don't think that's the problem. PSU is a generic Intelligent 700 Watt (temporary, will buy a corsair CX before adding a GPU).
If your stable operates at 3.7GHz in P95, maintain that setting.
Your CPU will reduce performance beyond 61C to protect it from overheating.
You shouldn't anticipate higher speeds since your memory isn't built for overclocking; excessive heat will cause shutdowns.
While some users manage higher frequencies, you'll require superior cooling solutions for both the Northbridge VRMs and the CPU.
If your stable operates at 3.7GHz in P95, maintain that setting.
Your CPU will reduce performance beyond 61C to protect it from overheating.
You shouldn't anticipate higher speeds since your memory isn't built for overclocking; excessive heat will cause shutdowns.
While some users manage higher frequencies, you'll require improved cooling for both the Northbridge VRMs and the CPU.
Sure! Here’s a good budget-friendly option for overclocking this processor.
There are some significant challenges with this request. First, using older AM2/AM3 boards for overclocking can be quite costly in the used market. For instance, an old 990FX board to boost a 125W FX CPU usually costs between $100 and $200, sometimes even higher than its original price a decade ago. Second, availability is limited—you’re restricted to what’s actually on sale, which changes based on location and timing. Lastly, the CPUs are so outdated that even if you manage performance gains now, they may not meet expectations later. Spending this much could also slow you down from upgrading to a Ryzen processor. It’s disappointing to note that I still own a Phenom IIx4 965 Black, which were much more enjoyable than the AM3+ CPUs that came after them.
I completely concur with DSzymborski.
Upgrading to Ryzen would be a better choice since funds used for the older system are wasted, and the performance gap is significant.
You captured a valuable insight accurately. I believe I might be able to reach those boards, though they remain somewhat costly for their age. I’m aware of spots where they’re sold at lower prices, but I’m unsure if I can secure even better deals than the AM4 boards. If I can find a way to get them at a much lower cost, that would be ideal.
Thanks for your advice—it really helps.
Thanks
@MeanMachine41