Tips for boosting performance on AMD FX-8320 with case and cooling upgrades
Tips for boosting performance on AMD FX-8320 with case and cooling upgrades
Hello everyone, I’m looking for some guidance on overclocking my AMD FX-8320 (stock cooler). Here are my details.
No aftermarket coolers.
Case: Sirius 206
http://www.azzatek.com/m/2010-1307-126179.php?Lang=en
PSU: 650 xfx ts edition (bronze)
https://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a...6817207014
CPU: Amd fx 8320 black edition 3.5 ghz (4.0 ghz turbo)
Motherboard: Gigabyte 990FXA-UD3 (Rev 4.0)
GPU: Asus GTX 660 2gb
I’ve read a lot about overclocking and followed the Bulldozer guide everywhere. I’m considering switching to Ryzen or Intel, but I haven’t done it before and was wondering if now would be a good time.
Currently, I manage to reach around 4.2ghz during overclocking, though I suspect my temps are too high—around 70°C or more under load. This might be due to the lack of an aftermarket cooler and the fact that the front fan isn’t working. I’m not sure why it’s not functioning properly, and searching online hasn’t helped much.
Since I was planning upgrades anyway, I thought about getting a new case and cooling system. I was thinking of keeping my current setup until I replace everything for the new one.
https://pcpartpicker.com/product/xjZ2FT/...phec416pbk
I think this case is likely the best option unless I find something discounted or more efficient. If a cooler is needed, do you have any affordable recommendations that could work temporarily?
Also, some questions I couldn’t find answers to: Should I turn off features like Cool & Quiet and AMD Turbo when I set up my optimal overclock? Which ones should I re-enable? Also, when I checked the BIOS version using msinfo32, it showed American Megatrends Inc. F2, 7/15/2013. When updating, do I need to download a version with F2 or the latest one (F3)?
Thanks for any advice you can offer, and have a great day.
Don't waste a $70 case on an old build. Just purchase a fan—it's affordable. Avoid attempting to overclock the processor on the stock cooler. The term "stock cooler" is misleading; it only maintains temperatures at standard speeds, not for high performance. I wouldn't invest in this setup personally. If necessary, swap out the existing case fan with a better one and consider a future CPU cooler upgrade.
Don't ever push your stock cooler beyond its limits. Prepare your system properly before attempting any overclocking. Verify that all case fans function correctly in the right sequence—front fans should draw cool air in, while top and rear fans should expel heat out. Replace the stock thermal paste with a high-quality aftermarket product, remove the old paste carefully, apply the new one following the recommended procedures, install the upgraded cooler, and begin the careful process of overclocking.
For the most reliable and stable results, use Babysteps for thorough testing before taking further steps. Avoid using speedstep coolers or similar software. Ensure all BIOS updates are tailored to your motherboard; incorrect flashing can render your system unusable.
Supahos shares some advice on upgrading his setup. He suggests opting for a more affordable fan instead of investing in a high-end case. He warns against trying to overclock the processor using the stock cooler, explaining that it's marketed as one that maintains safe temperatures at standard speeds, not due to ample cooling capacity. He advises saving money by replacing the existing case fan with a cheaper alternative and considering a future CPU cooler if needed. He also mentions his current purchase of a case and how it fits both his existing and upcoming systems, noting uncertainty about how aftermarket coolers perform across different builds.
LunarUmbra :
Supahos :
Avoid spending a $70 case on an old build. Opt for a more affordable fan instead. Don't attempt to overclock the processor in the stock cooler—it's marketed as keeping temperatures down at standard speeds, not as offering significant performance gains. I wouldn't invest in that setup unless necessary; if you must, consider swapping the existing case fan with one that suits your needs and getting a future-proof CPU cooler.
I'm purchasing this case because it matches my current configuration, and I plan to use it for my upcoming build once I acquire it. I've already decided on the components for my new rig. I'm not entirely confident about how aftermarket coolers perform across different builds. While I assumed they work for both my rigs, I want to verify if the motherboard or processor influences their effectiveness.
Make sure you select an aftermarket cooler that matches your socket type—AM3+, 1151, 2011v3, etc.—since many come with adapters for various socket configurations.
Rhinofart:
Avoid pushing your stock cooler beyond its limits. Prepare your system properly before attempting any overclocking. Ensure all case fans function correctly in the right sequence—front fans should draw cool air in, while top and rear fans should expel heat out. Invest in a reliable aftermarket cooler and apply proper thermal paste. Remove the old paste, apply the new one following the correct procedures, then install the new cooler and begin the overclocking process.
The most stable and effective overclocks come from using Babysteps, which offers extensive testing for stability before making further adjustments.
For your specific concerns: disable Speedstep Cool&Quiet and similar tools. Update only to BIOS versions compatible with your motherboard. Be cautious—flashing incorrect BIOS can brick your system.
I’ve followed most of your advice (except I still lack an aftermarket cooler), but I’ll likely purchase a new case that fits both my old and new rigs. Does this mean aftermarket coolers might be impacted by your processor and motherboard? I assumed it was mainly about placement, but thanks for the guidance.
LunarUmbra :
Rhinofart :
Avoid ever pushing your stock cooler beyond its limits. Prioritize system setup before attempting any overclocking. Ensure all case fans function correctly in the proper sequence—front fans drawing cool air in, while top and rear fans expelling heat out. Invest in a reliable aftermarket cooler and apply thermal paste according to manufacturer guidelines. Install the new cooler and begin the careful process of overclocking.
The most stable and effective overclocks typically come from using Babysteps, which involves extensive stability testing followed by gradual adjustments.
Regarding your specific concerns: disable Speedstep Cool&Quiet and similar tools. Update only to BIOS versions compatible with your motherboard. Flashing incorrect BIOS can render your system unusable.
I’ve followed most of your advice (except I still lack an aftermarket cooler), but I’ll likely purchase a new case that fits both my old and current systems. This raises the question—do aftermarket coolers affect performance based on your processor and motherboard? I assumed it was mainly about space and placement, but I appreciate the clarification.
The physical fit and placement of the cooler are crucial. The mounting base must align properly with the motherboard’s system to ensure optimal heat dissipation. Improper installation can compromise cooling efficiency.
Rhinofart shared some tips with LunarUmbra. They advise against overclocking with stock coolers and recommend checking that all fans are functioning correctly in the right sequence. Front case fans should draw cool air in, while top and rear fans should expel heat out. Using a quality aftermarket cooler along with proper thermal paste application is suggested. The process involves careful steps, often using Babysteps for stability testing before moving forward.
For your specific concerns, they recommend disabling Speedstep Cool&Quiet and similar software. Updates should be tailored to your motherboard model to avoid bricking the system. They mention having completed most of the advice except for not yet owning an aftermarket cooler.
They also stress that the cooler's fitment is crucial—ensuring the right base connects properly to the motherboard’s mounting system. Mismatched dimensions can cause damage.
The cooler height must also match the available space between the CPU case and the case wall. It’s essential to balance these factors for optimal performance.
They acknowledge that choosing between Ryzen and Intel could significantly impact the build, and they’re looking for a case and cooler system that works with both their old and upcoming hardware.