Static or offset V-core question?
Static or offset V-core question?
Hi everyone,
I recently upgraded my CPU after spending some time with it in stock overclock (native motherboard boost). I chose to enable XMP mode so that my RAM would run at 1600 MHz instead of the default 1372, which it was intentionally throttling. My CPU is currently running at 100x44 - 4400 MHz for an i5 3570K.
I didn’t prime it yet because I’m short on time, but I decided to set it to a static voltage of 1.38 (monitor shows 1.384). Previously, I ran it at 4.3 GHz and 1.34 GHz at 4.5 GHz, so I didn’t want to limit power usage or risk overshooting.
So far, the only test I’ve done was playing GTAV in a highly detailed setting with lots of cars and explosions. The FPS dropped significantly, but in this case, the CPU also had to work hard. Temperatures stayed under 67°C per core, and the package reached around 70°C. That seems manageable.
My main question is whether it’s okay to keep the voltage static all the time. I tried setting offset mode, but it resets the base voltage to 1.050 and requires an offset of at least 0.250 to reach around 1.3. I see some people in forums suggesting a manual + offset of about 0.055, but I can’t set the base and then adjust the voltage. My motherboard is an Asus P8Z77-V LX with BIOS version 2501.
Any advice on lowering the static voltage, expected temperatures, or what the safe Vcore should be? Also, why don’t the Digi+VRM options save for startup in the AI suite? They always reset.
Are you adjusting settings in AI suite? I’d just apply identical configurations in BIOS.
When it comes to voltages, the so-called "safe voltages" vary depending on the CPU. For a 3570k, I’d recommend keeping under 1.4v for stable temperatures, with around 1.35v being ideal.
Temperatures staying below about 80 degrees is acceptable.
For overclocking, I set my CPU to a fixed voltage since it doesn’t drop in speed. Personally, I’d conduct further tests to determine the lowest voltage that still allows good performance at your clock speeds. If temperatures remain stable, sticking with static is preferable.
This approach might slightly reduce longevity but could be minimal.
In short, more testing and lowering the voltage while maintaining a static setting would be wise.
Are you adjusting performance in the AI suite? I’d just apply identical configurations in the BIOS.
With voltage levels, the so-called "safe voltages" vary depending on the CPU model. For a 3570k, under 1.4v should be acceptable with reasonable temperatures. About 1.35v works best.
Typically, keeping below 80 degrees is acceptable.
For overclocking, I set my CPU to a fixed voltage since it doesn’t drop during testing. Personally, I’d conduct additional tests to determine the lowest voltage your CPU can handle at your clock speeds. If temperatures remain stable, maintaining static is preferable.
Technically this might accelerate wear, but it’s likely minor.
In short, I recommend more experimentation, lower the voltage, and stick to static for now.
Under 80 degrees is fine.
1.4v is generally not recommended for the core in air or water.
Update your vrm settings in the BIOS instead; avoid overclocking or altering those settings in the AI suite.
Good luck! 😉