Very unlucky cpu? Oc troubles
Very unlucky cpu? Oc troubles
Hi everyone. I'm just starting out as an overclocker and would really value any advice you can offer.
I have an AMD FX 8320 with an MSI Gaming 970 motherboard. Some forum members claim they reached 4.2 to 4.4ghz at a stock vcore of 1.36v. My concern is, are they exaggerating? Or am I just unlucky? I need around 1.400v to hit 4.1ghz, but I haven't managed a steady 4.2 after 4.162v failed. I tried 4.1ghz at 1.400v on a 52c and got max temps of 0.6s. Any suggestions?
Ps: By unstable means I can’t complete a Prime95 run after a restart.
They likely have 990FX boards with robust power phases and improved VRMs with cooling. I believe the issue isn't with your CPU, but possibly your motherboard. I'm inclined to agree. I recently installed a new motherboard about four months ago, so I probably won't be upgrading again. For my next build, I plan to switch to Intel. I need to make the most of what I have now. I achieved 4.2 on 1.424 and it seems stable, though I think it might be limited by my motherboard. The tpin1 (NB or VRM) reached 96c after 20 minutes of prime time at 95. It probably would have hit the 100s. What are your thoughts? Should I clock down to 4.0GHz and stop?
They likely have 990FX boards with robust power phases and improved VRMs with cooling. I believe it's not your CPU, but possibly your motherboard. Adding small heatsinks to the VRM MOSFETs could help stability, though it might cost more than expected. I've added sinks to MOSFETs on a 970 board myself, but I was overclocking a 955 Deneb and felt safer that way. You might be right. I recently got a new motherboard about four months ago, so I probably won't be upgrading soon. For my next build, I plan to switch to Intel. I need to make the most of this now. I managed to get stable 4.2 at 1.424 GHz, but that feels high for 4.2—maybe my motherboard limits it. The tpin1 (likely NB or VRM) reached 96°C after 20 minutes of prime time 95. It probably peaked in the 100s. What should I do? Just clock to 4.0 GHz and stop?
Thank you for your message. Here are some recommendations for VRM cooling, including brands and items.