Vcore LLC's review of Gigabyte 990FXA-UD3
Vcore LLC's review of Gigabyte 990FXA-UD3
Hello, I've been adjusting basic parameters with software for several months now, and recently shifted to BIOS overclocking, believing it offers better customization or better hardware stability. My focus is on Loadline Calibration settings on my Gigabyte 990FXA-UD3 rev 4.1 motherboard. Before anyone dismisses me with "if you don't know these things, you shouldn't overclock," I'm familiar with LLC and its applications, but I've encountered mixed results due to varying preferences and configurations. The presets on my board are Auto, Normal, Extreme, Medium, Low, and Standard, corresponding roughly to 0, ~10-60, ~70-80, ~90-100, with the default set at 100 while the label says Auto. I've observed that certain presets adjust the vcore voltage as CPU load changes, and through experimentation, I noticed a drop in vcore when usage increased. Graphs often display a reference line rising with frequency or load, while idle and load lines either stay below or exceed it—sometimes the idle line is higher, sometimes the load line is higher. I assume by default, my LLC full load line aligns with the lower end, reducing voltage as demand grows, which may help stability beyond just avoiding overheating, power surges, or component failure. Raising vcore simply shifts the reference line upward; if idle or load lines cross it, it risks damaging parts due to excessive power delivery. I currently disable Cool & Quiet, C1E, Core C6 State, APM, and Turbo, and enable HPC and CPU Unlock. Others have reported that LLC behaves differently from graph-based adjustments like fan PWM or temperature graphs, as its settings remain fixed. My motherboard runs AMD FX 9590 with a Lepa Aquachanger cooler, powered by a 1300W PSU connected directly to the wall. Temperatures stay between 20-30°C idle, and CPU stays under 60°C at full load. The case includes multiple dust filters and fans, which I maintain regularly. I've been building and modifying systems since age six, so I'm confident in my approach. TL;DR—could someone clarify how LLC settings differ from the static voltage-performance curve shown in graphs, and what would be a better strategy? I'll continue testing and adjusting."
In mid-high configurations on an LLC typically neutralizes Vdroop without causing excessive overvoltage. Begin with a range of 30-40 based on your motherboard, then track voltages during idle and under different loads using your chosen tool, making adjustments as necessary. Aim for an LLC configuration that brings you close to your desired voltage without ever falling below it. It's preferable to slightly overshoot Vdroop rather than undershoot, since CPUs require more voltage at full load regardless. You might need to fine-tune the Vcore setting a bit once you identify the optimal LLC level.
Thank you for your feedback. I've been adjusting settings gradually and reached 4.8Ghz with an LLC of 50. It doesn't crash, though it slows below 1Ghz. The temps stay within limits, but adding more fans could help maintain a higher stable temperature. I'm considering lowering the Vcore and LLC as you suggested. Getting extra fans might improve stability and clock speed, even if the current temps are acceptable.