Problem when trying to increase performance on Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 by overclocking
Problem when trying to increase performance on Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550 by overclocking
Hi everyone, here are the details of my setup:
CPU: Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550
Motherboard: ASUS P5E-VM DO
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 260
RAM: 4 GB PC2-6400
Cooling: Arctic Cooling Freezer 13
Power Supply: FirePower ModXStream Pro 600W 80Plus
The problem is that I can't exceed 340 FSB without raising the PCIe speed. I've tried various FSB speeds, CPU voltages, and DRAM frequencies, but the only time the PCIe frequency goes above 340 MHz is when I set the BIOS PCIe frequency higher than the standard 100 MHz. My current BIOS settings are:
CPU Ratio: 8.5
FSB Freq: 360
PCI Freq: 105
DRAM Freq: DDR2-864Mhz
CPU Voltage: 1.2500V
CPU PLL Voltage: Auto
DRAM Voltage: 1.90V
FSB Termination Voltage: Auto
North Bridge Voltage: Auto
CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
I understand that boosting the PCIe frequency can be risky for other parts, though many say 110 MHz is safe. I’m unsure if my RAM and motherboard are truly limiting me to 400 MHz FSB, but something seems off. Any suggestions or advice would be greatly appreciated.
It's likely that when you adjust your PCIE, your North Bridge and FSB also rise automatically since they're set to auto mode. These increased voltages can help boost your CPU speed.