F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop Using the Intel tool while your XMP settings are enabled doesn't work.

Using the Intel tool while your XMP settings are enabled doesn't work.

Using the Intel tool while your XMP settings are enabled doesn't work.

S
ShaneTV
Member
162
04-06-2022, 08:31 PM
#1
I'm not sure why enabling my XMP profile in the BIOS blocks me from running Extreme Tuning Utility. It just displays an error about needing devolt protection enabled. I try setting it but still can't launch the software. Since I'm not very familiar with this MSI motherboard, I usually rely on Extreme Tuning Utility to tweak my CPU from Windows. I'm wondering why that's the case. Could you help me find a guide for the MSI Z790-a PRO WIFI BIOS and show me how to make adjustments there? I used to have a smoother experience with my previous Asus ROG BIOS.
S
ShaneTV
04-06-2022, 08:31 PM #1

I'm not sure why enabling my XMP profile in the BIOS blocks me from running Extreme Tuning Utility. It just displays an error about needing devolt protection enabled. I try setting it but still can't launch the software. Since I'm not very familiar with this MSI motherboard, I usually rely on Extreme Tuning Utility to tweak my CPU from Windows. I'm wondering why that's the case. Could you help me find a guide for the MSI Z790-a PRO WIFI BIOS and show me how to make adjustments there? I used to have a smoother experience with my previous Asus ROG BIOS.

G
galoxy
Member
62
04-06-2022, 10:14 PM
#2
I don’t really like XTU much. It tends to malfunction whenever I attempt to use it. If you’re after a Windows OS modification tool for MSI boards, Dragon Power usually comes out ahead. It has a few small quirks—like resetting the LLC to level 1 when you try tweaking VCore, and missing some key voltage controls. Plus, I’ve only used it on premium models, so it might not suit lower-end systems. Still, for an OS-focused utility, it’s top-notch: lightweight interface, fast navigation. All the essentials for overclocking are neatly placed in the advanced settings. The setup differs from ASUS boards, though I’d say MSI’s layout is more intuitive if you’re not used to it (after a year without a board, figuring out where things sit can be tricky).

In short, I still favor ASUS overall, but once you get comfortable, MSI BIOS remains the most user-friendly among manufacturers. The main menu starts with CPU options—ratios, mode settings, core limits, etc. The advanced CPU section controls features like C States, power caps, and E-core disablement. Underneath, you’ll find BCLK tweaks, memory configurations, and voltage controls. Most of it is straightforward; just scroll until you locate what you need.

Below that, you’ll see voltage settings for LLC and VRM parameters, with the VCore option managing both core voltage and mode. After that, memory settings dominate, especially if you’re planning overclocking or XMP support.

Finally, the power menu is where you adjust the LLC and related protection values. Everything seems clear, though some boards may vary slightly. For a deeper dive, there’s a video showing an OC on a Z690 board—though it uses older hardware, MSI hasn’t significantly updated their BIOS in recent years.

For most users, MSI BIOS remains the slowest to navigate for overclocking, but its learning curve is relatively gentle compared to others. If you stick with ASUS, it’s still solid; if you’re after speed and simplicity, MSI’s BIOS is worth considering despite its quirks.
G
galoxy
04-06-2022, 10:14 PM #2

I don’t really like XTU much. It tends to malfunction whenever I attempt to use it. If you’re after a Windows OS modification tool for MSI boards, Dragon Power usually comes out ahead. It has a few small quirks—like resetting the LLC to level 1 when you try tweaking VCore, and missing some key voltage controls. Plus, I’ve only used it on premium models, so it might not suit lower-end systems. Still, for an OS-focused utility, it’s top-notch: lightweight interface, fast navigation. All the essentials for overclocking are neatly placed in the advanced settings. The setup differs from ASUS boards, though I’d say MSI’s layout is more intuitive if you’re not used to it (after a year without a board, figuring out where things sit can be tricky).

In short, I still favor ASUS overall, but once you get comfortable, MSI BIOS remains the most user-friendly among manufacturers. The main menu starts with CPU options—ratios, mode settings, core limits, etc. The advanced CPU section controls features like C States, power caps, and E-core disablement. Underneath, you’ll find BCLK tweaks, memory configurations, and voltage controls. Most of it is straightforward; just scroll until you locate what you need.

Below that, you’ll see voltage settings for LLC and VRM parameters, with the VCore option managing both core voltage and mode. After that, memory settings dominate, especially if you’re planning overclocking or XMP support.

Finally, the power menu is where you adjust the LLC and related protection values. Everything seems clear, though some boards may vary slightly. For a deeper dive, there’s a video showing an OC on a Z690 board—though it uses older hardware, MSI hasn’t significantly updated their BIOS in recent years.

For most users, MSI BIOS remains the slowest to navigate for overclocking, but its learning curve is relatively gentle compared to others. If you stick with ASUS, it’s still solid; if you’re after speed and simplicity, MSI’s BIOS is worth considering despite its quirks.