Some queries from a beginner about non-k skylake overclocking i5-6400
Some queries from a beginner about non-k skylake overclocking i5-6400
Hello, I’m looking to purchase some PC components at a low cost and plan to assemble a new gaming PC for myself. I’ll also try to push the overclocking limits. Since I’m just starting with overclocking, I have a few questions in mind. Here’s what’s on my mind:
My current setup includes:
- Intel Core i5-6400 2.7GHz Quad-Core Processor
- CPU cooler ARCTIC Freezer i32 CO CPU Cooler
- Motherboard MSI Z170M Mortar Micro ATX LGA1151
- Memory Kingston HyperX Fury Black 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR4-2133
- Video Card MSI Radeon RX 480 4GB GAMING X
- Case Zalman Z3 Plus ATX Mid Tower
- Power Supply Corsair VS 550W ATX
First, regarding the motherboard:
The Z170M MORTAR supports non-K BIOS, so overclocking should be possible. If you’ve ever done non-K on this board or any MSI model, do you know what to expect? I’ve heard that with a stable voltage, it might not cause issues, but sometimes problems arise during high overclocking. I’m aiming for around 4 GHz with 1.25V and don’t plan to go much higher.
Next, the power supply:
Is 550W sufficient for this build when running at overclocked speeds?
About downgrading the BIOS:
Can I upgrade the motherboard to an older BIOS version? For instance, if I get a new motherboard with 04/2017 BIOS and want to revert to 12/2015 which doesn’t support non-K overclocking. Would that be feasible? I’ve also heard some concerns about voltage stability, but I’m not sure if it’s a big issue unless I push the limits.
Concerning updates:
Will Windows updates cause any problems with an older BIOS? Some incompatibilities are possible. Also, I’ve read that a new update might fix non-K overclock issues via microcode. Should I be worried about that? Probably not if it’s been a year and we’re using a Kaby Lake.
Regarding RAM:
My DDR4 RAM is 2133 MHz. If I overclock the CPU, will the RAM also need to be overclocked? Can I safely push both to higher speeds?
Lastly, voltage longevity:
What voltage should I use to ensure my CPU remains stable for at least two to three years under overclocking? I know Skylake is designed for 1.5V, but I don’t want to go that high.
Thanks for your help!
I'll share some insights based on my experience with that board and i3-6100.
1) The combination of this board with i3-6100 delivered solid results for me. The absence of LLC controls isn't a major issue because it simply requires handling higher voltage, which still maintains stability during vdroop under load. I started with BIOS from overclocking.guide (version A.1), then upgraded to the official BIOS A.6, which significantly improved stability and eliminated any problems—even though it came after a microcode update intended to break overclocking.
2) Consider using a tier-2 or higher power supply unit for overclocking.
3) There should be no issues flashing older models; just ensure the flash tool isn't complaining about backward compatibility.
4) Some misleading information exists regarding microcode updates and Windows. The microcode is embedded in the BIOS and applied automatically at startup. Whether Intel implements these updates is optional and not managed by Microsoft, so it doesn’t impact Windows or its updates.
5) RAM performance depends on BCLK speed, but Skylake offers finer multiplier adjustments compared to Haswell, allowing you to maintain near-stock speeds without overclocking if desired.
6) Maintain low temperatures, keep voltage below 1.44V, and you’ll extend the board’s life significantly.
Side note: The BIOS on this board behaves a bit oddly. If certain settings aren’t responding, try resetting the CMOS—it often resolves the issue. Pay attention to the sequence in which you adjust CPU and RAM parameters; trial and error can lead to great results. GL!
I’ll attempt to offer some guidance based on my experience with that board and the i3-6100.
1) The combination of that board with the i3-6100 worked quite well for me. The absence of LLC controls isn’t a major issue because it simply means you operate at a slightly higher voltage, which still maintains stability under load. I started with BIOS from overclocking.guide (A.1), then upgraded to the official BIOS A.6, which improved stability and eliminated any problems—even though it came after a microcode update that was supposed to break overclocking.
2) Consider using a tier-2 or higher power supply for overclocking.
3) There shouldn’t be any trouble flashing older RAM. Just ensure the flash tool doesn’t complain about reverting changes.
4) Some misleading information exists about microcode updates and Windows. The microcode is stored in the BIOS and applied at startup. Whether Intel implements these updates is optional and not managed by Microsoft. It doesn’t influence Windows or its updates.
5) RAM speed depends on BCLK; Skylake offers finer multiplier adjustments than Haswell, so you can still achieve close-to-stock speeds without overclocking if you prefer.
6) Maintain low temperatures, keep voltage under 1.44V, and avoid stressing the system.
Side note: The BIOS on that board behaves a bit oddly. If certain settings aren’t responding, try resetting the CMOS—it might resolve the issue. Pay attention to the sequence in which you adjust CPU and RAM parameters; experiment carefully. Good luck!
Thanks for reaching out—your experience is valuable! I’d like to ask about overclocking your 2133 RAM: is it safe to push it up to 2400 or 2666? Wouldn’t that cause excessive heat?