Total OC Noob
Total OC Noob
Go check a few how-to's...here's one to start:
https://www.tweaktown.com/guides/8703/ry...ndex3.html
I'd also suggest getting started with AMD's overclocking software: RyzenMaster. You can DL it from their website. Advantages are: it comes with an overclocking guide written by AMD (so you know it's going to give safe guidelines) and it works from within windows.
Working within windows means you can make changes to overclock processor (multiplier and VCore) you don't have to restart Windows. Just make the changes and they 'take' immediately.
If you make some other changes-- like clock speed changes to memory or disabling cores or multi-threading-- it will ask to restart Windows.
Your setup with RyzenMaster and the AMD guide isn't matching the online versions, and you're having trouble making changes. Check your configuration settings carefully.
Don't attempt to overclock with Ryzen Master by manually adjusting the clock multiplier in BIOS. Familiarize yourself with your BIOS settings. Avoid being a beginner on this topic.
Overclocking is fairly simple if you follow the necessary precautions, such as using a powerful cooler and a high-quality power supply like a Seasonic or EVGA. Make sure the combined power usage of your CPU and GPU under stress doesn't surpass the PSU's rated wattage. Low-quality PSUs might just fail when under pressure. Inadequate cooling can harm the CPU, and overvolting is also risky. Always verify the safe voltage and recommended temperature limits for each CPU and never exceed them.
Look up your motherboard model and PSU number to see if there are any overclocking recommendations. Also, assess the VRM configuration on your motherboard to ensure it's compatible with overclocking. Since you'll be increasing the CPU voltage, it will draw more power than usual, resulting in increased heat output.
The process can become complicated because standard or entry-level coolers may not perform well under high loads. Depending on your chassis size and preferences, you might need a powerful air cooler like the NH-D15, an AIO water loop such as the Kraken 62, or a custom loop that cools just the CPU or includes GPU cooling. Depending on the CPU you're targeting for overclocking, a large air cooler is usually sufficient.
Switching to a water cooler requires adding a fan to the VRM area to replace the airflow from an air cooler, along with additional chassis fans to improve circulation. The decision ultimately comes down to what fits best in your case.
If you opt for premium components, evaluate whether the overclock will significantly boost performance beyond the default speeds. There aren't typically free MHz options, but you can usually gain around 10% more performance, which might make a noticeable difference in frame rates.
The cost of overclocking extends beyond the CPU to the cooler, PSU, and chassis. The next generation of CPUs often outperforms the previous one at default settings, so it depends on how much you invest in cooling solutions. A quality PSU is essential for reliability and longevity, and you can sometimes compromise on the chassis if it means fitting everything neatly.
For a clean build, you might spend more on a large water cooler or custom loop, but it's manageable. I can install a water cooler into a $40 chassis with side panels off, though I usually leave them on for experimentation.
Never rely on software to overclock; it often raises the CPU voltage too high. While it's easy to adjust the clock multiplier in BIOS and the VCore, you must understand the increased power draw and thermal demands. Ensure your PSU and cooler can handle the load.
Don't rush into maximum overclocking. Test each stage with benchmarking software and run a stress test (like Prime95 version 26.6) to confirm temperatures stay within limits. Gradually increase clock speeds by 0.1GHz across cores, then test again until you reach your target. Monitor voltages using tools like HWINFO.
If your cooling and PSU are sufficient (and the PSU is reliable), everything should work fine. Premium parts ensure better reliability, though they come at a cost. You'll need to invest time in testing before finalizing.
Stress testing will push the system beyond normal usage, helping confirm stability after overclocking. Some people also overclock their memory on Ryzen, but I prefer buying a dimming module for the rated speed and using XMP instead. Mixing DDR4 memory or using lower-rated modules with DDR4 is risky and not recommended.
Overclocking memory alongside the CPU can be complicated and error-prone. It might save a few dollars, but the effort and potential risks are higher than the benefits. Reading reviews and understanding your board's specifications is crucial before proceeding.
If you manage to balance everything, overclocking could be worth it for a short period of extra FPS. However, a reliable PSU that lasts years is more valuable than risking failure or damage. If parts are on sale, you might get good value, but always prioritize stability and safety.
You may be in the Current Mode tab...that just displays what the (umhmm) Current mode is doing.
Go to Creator Mode tab to make some changes. Be sure to also click 'apply' at top.
Here's a youtube that may help...
View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IS0ogbzbPl8
but read that guide too. lots of good stuff there.
The advantage of working on Windows is the ability to observe the results 'in real time'. This provides a clear understanding of how your overclocking adjustments impact the system. To achieve this, you'll need a tool that imposes a substantial workload on the CPU: install Cinebench 20 from the Windows app store. It serves as a benchmark and can also execute long loops to act as an effective stress test. Next, use HWInfo64 to accurately track voltages and temperatures. You'll need two main Core voltage readings: 'Vcore' and 'CPU CoreVolts (STI2 TFN)'. The key is where these are measured; STI2 provides the most relevant data as it reflects the internal CPU voltage. For temperature, only 'TDie' matters, and for a 2700 series chip it will appear in HWInfo as TDIE/TCtl because those values are identical on that processor. Adjust settings in RyzenMaster, observe changes in voltage and temperature during both load (Cinebench running) and idle states. This approach will help you replicate conditions more easily when setting up BIOS overclocking.
And yes... a 650W power supply should work well for boosting a 2700 with RX480/580/590, even if it's already overclocked. However, if you're using a brand from Rosewill (with the case included), consider upgrading for better performance.
You'll likely want to improve your cooling setup. The standard cooling on Ryzens is sufficient, but Wraithes only allows moderate overclocks. This shouldn't prevent you from trying, though. Just keep in mind that maintaining good temperatures during extended all-core stress tests won't be ideal.
Thank you, David. This was really detailed and helpful. I'm excited to get the new cooling system this Friday and will definitely follow your suggestions!
No worries! I’ve gathered a few useful tips from here. It’s important to maintain control over the vCore as much as possible. Use offset mode, add only small 0.005 increments each time, and keep track of the vCore values at different LLC levels and clock speeds to ensure they stay within your desired range. After identifying the right vCore through testing, adjust a few settings (which will vary by BIOS) such as CPU current control, and avoid the highest settings. Instead of leaving everything on auto, which could cause unexpected increases, stick to manual control.
You should also have monitoring in place to warn you if a pump or fan fails—something like CPU fan error alerts built into the BIOS. It’s likely there are options to set temperature thresholds in the BIOS or through software so it can shut down if things get too hot. As long as you stay alert and keep temperatures low, especially for overclocking, you should be fine. Just make sure to keep voltages within safe limits and maintain a comfortable distance from the recommended max.
Be mindful of rising ambient temperatures in summer, which may require slight adjustments to idle temps. Also, consider adding a fan to improve airflow over the VRM area if needed—there’s no easy place to mount one, but you could use an L-shaped bracket near the top exhaust fan or install a 120mm fan on the GPU back.
Overall, it’s about staying informed and applying careful precautions.