Programs for overclocking the pentium 3060. The best programs for overclocking an AMD processor

Overclocking veterans: this Asus P2B motherboard evokes good memories about the past. Click on the picture to enlarge.

Variety of software

In this article we will tell you about several different applications, allowing you to overclock the processor and video card. Some of them can even change the memory frequency and latency. It's clear what you're using similar programs at your own peril and risk, but if you do not go beyond reasonable limits, then great danger There is no damage to the hardware, and the advantage in additional performance is often significant.

Two favorites: CPU-Z and GPU-Z

Before we begin describing overclocking programs, we would like to highlight two applications that, in our opinion, are necessary sources system information: CPU-Z and GPU-Z. These two small utilities (which actually have nothing in common except similar names) allow you to display information about the components of your system. CPU-Z reports information about the processor, motherboard and memory, and GPU-Z provides information about the video card.

CPU-Z

CPU-Z is a very complete and effective program, written by French developers, which is regularly updated to provide support for most processors and chipsets available on the market. It allows you to get details about the installed processor, frequencies system bus, CPU voltage, memory frequencies and latencies (via SPD), etc. This utility also includes functions to check the validity of overclock values ​​to avoid fraud.

Before you start overclocking your system, we recommend downloading the CPU-Z program.

Tip: Make sure you have the latest version of CPU-Z if you want to have a function to validate overclock values. If you use more old version program, the plausibility check may not work.

Despite the similar names, the GPU-Z program is not the brainchild of the CPUID development team that created CPU-Z, and has no connection with them. GPU-Z is a compact program that is capable of displaying extremely important information about video cards: its exact name, type of GPU used, graphics processor, memory, shader unit frequencies (if the video card is compatible), number of raster operator units (ROP), memory bus width and much more. This utility is still under development, and from a practical point of view it can still be improved, although it is already fully usable.

The latest version of GPU-Z can be found.

SetFSB utility for overclocking CPU

SetFSB is easy way overclock the processor. This small program allows you to adjust the FSB frequency directly from Windows. It supports a wide range of motherboards and only requires you to know the PLL used by your board.

PLL of our motherboard. Click on the picture to enlarge.

PLL (Phase Locked Loop) is a chip on the motherboard that generates frequencies for various components. Many modern motherboards have at least four reference frequencies: FSB, memory, bus PCI Express and PCI buses; it is the PLL that generates these frequencies. In practice, on most motherboards, the FSB and memory frequencies are related (using a coefficient that can be selected in the BIOS), while the frequencies PCI bus Express and PCI are fixed (100 MHz and 33 MHz, respectively). On some motherboards, like the one shown in the picture above, the PCI Express and PCI bus frequencies are also related.

Tip: PLL chips are usually produced by ICS. You only need to find a chip with that name to find out the PLL version.

SetFSB in progress. Click on the picture to enlarge.

Changing frequencies

Select the name of your PLL chip from the drop-down menu and click on "Get FSB". The program should find current frequency FSB, after which it will allow you to change it simply by moving the slider.

It's important to remember two things. Firstly, do not get carried away with excessive frequency changes, otherwise it may harm your computer. Second, not all PLL chips provide the same frequency ranges; Some motherboards limit the available frequencies. Please also note that if you check the "Ultra" mode, you will have access to additional frequencies (depending on the PLL). Once you select a new frequency value, click on "Set FSB" to start using that value (and pray that nothing bad happens to your computer). If the system crashes, reboot it and try again. You are not adjusting the voltage here, so... at least, the hardware will not be damaged.

SetFSB is an essential overclocking utility that is updated frequently to support new versions of PLL chips. The latest version of this program can be downloaded.

Utilities for motherboards

If you are not interested in an application like SetFSB, then it will be useful for you to know that large manufacturers motherboards provide overclocking programs included with their boards.

Asus

Asus includes a fairly wide range of software in the package. Perhaps the most notable utility in the AI ​​Suite is the AI ​​Booster program. It allows you to overclock your system from Windows, like many other overclocking programs. It is worth noting that here you do not have to look for the type of PLL chip, since the AI ​​Booster utility only works with motherboards Asus boards. In addition to adjusting the FSB frequency, it allows you to change the CPU voltage (VCore) and memory frequency. Therefore, despite the limited compatibility, in fact this program much more functional compared to common universal utilities.

The EasyTune6 utility is much less attractive in appearance than Asus program; in its ergonomics it resembles CPU-Z. However, EasyTune6 is a completely complete program that allows you to obtain information about your hardware, as well as overclock the processor and fine-tune the frequencies and voltages of components on the motherboard.

MSI

If Gigabyte's utility looks very modest, then MSI (like Asus) likes to dress up its product (in in this case even too much). Utility Dual Core Center, included with some motherboards MSI boards, is a rather catchy program with its own vision of beauty. However, like competing apps, Dual Core Center allows you to overclock the system and adjust voltages. In any case, it is a functional alternative to SetFSB.

Other manufacturers also include overclocking software with their high-end motherboards; we just stuck with the utilities from the largest vendors.

nTune and OverDrive: overclocking from AMD and Nvidia

AMD and Nvidia also provide their own overclocking utilities: OverDrive and nTune, respectively. They are less specialized than utilities from motherboard manufacturers, although they are limited to specific chipsets rather than motherboards.

nTune only for nForce

Nvidia nTune utility. Click on the picture to enlarge.

Nvidia's own nTune utility only supports chipsets from this manufacturer (at least when it comes to CPU overclocking). It will not work with first generation Nvidia chipsets or mobile versions. But if you have an nForce chipset, then the nTune program will allow you to overclock the processor and memory, change their voltages, as well as the chipset voltage.

The latest version of nTune can be downloaded.

Tip: nTune will run on platforms that do not use the nForce chipset, but will only allow you to configure video card parameters, but you will not be able to overclock the processor.

OverDrive: AMD and overclocking

AMD OverDrive utility. Click on the picture to enlarge.

The AMD OverDrive utility is equivalent to Nvidia program nTune: This is an application for monitoring motherboards that use manufacturer's processors. OverDrive only works with AMD chipsets (7 series) and AMD processors. At the same time, you can overclock your processor in very measured doses. For example, you can choose different frequencies for each Phenom core. Of course, the memory and performance of the HT (HyperTransport) channel can also be adjusted, as can the voltages.

The latest version of OverDrive can be downloaded.

Tip: We tested OverDrive with Phenom processor in one of our articles entitled " New AMD 790GX chipset: RV610 integrated graphics for enthusiasts?". However, new options south bridge SB750s such as ACC (Advanced Clock Calibration) are only available on motherboards that feature the new I/O logic.

The applications discussed above are very good for overclocking the processor and memory, but their capabilities are limited when it comes to memory. Fortunately, there is a utility called Memset, another program written by French developers, that provides fine tuning memory latency, eliminating the need to access the BIOS (by the way, if you are using an AMD or Nvidia board, OverDrive and nTune utilities will provide you with many of these functions).

Arsenal of delays

Memset allows you to change memory delays. And not only standard parameters CAS and RAS-to-CAS, but also less common settings such as Read Delay, Write to Read Command, Read to Precharge, etc. However, keep in mind that changing latency on the fly is quite dangerous, and if you configure the memory subsystem for the highest possible performance, then system failures are possible.

Tip: Underclocked memory (eg DDR2-800 in 667 mode) generally allows for more aggressive latency, and some overclockers prefer latency over raw clocks.

Drivers make overclocking easier

Unblocking frequencies using Catalyst. Click on the picture to enlarge.

The simplest way is AMD drivers

The easiest way to overclock a video card is to use drivers. In the case of AMD, this is easy to do because there is an "ATI OverDrive" panel right in the Catalyst driver. The downside is that there is a limit to the available frequencies, as AMD apparently doesn't want to show frequencies that will likely cause the system to overheat and become unstable, causing frustrated gamers to attack tech support.

The most fresh drivers for AMD video cards can be found.

Tip: The "Auto-Tune" feature takes care of everything: it automatically checks your overclock settings for stability and then automatically applies the new frequencies. This method is less effective than manual overclocking, but it is simpler.

Nvidia ForceWare + nTune

ForceWare + nTune. Click on the picture to enlarge.

In the case of Nvidia, overclocking features are not built into standard drivers ForceWare, but they can be activated using nTune. As is the case with AMD drivers, this method limits the available frequencies. Please note: To use nTune with a graphics card, the nForce chipset is not required.

Fresh Nvidia drivers can be downloaded.

"Overclocking" tab of the RivaTuner program.

Eat effective solution for overclocking video cards: RivaTuner. This feature-rich application is not limited to Nvidia graphics cards; it can also be used to overclock AMD video cards. (If you remember, the first Nvidia accelerators were called Riva. You can read about the history of Nvidia video cards in the article " History of nVidia in video cards: 13 years of success ".

Metered acceleration

RivaTuner allows you to overclock the system without any frequency restrictions (in any case, you can go much further than AMD and Nvidia would like when using the overclocking interface in their own drivers), and can also desynchronize certain frequencies. Interesting feature RivaTuner program is that it can change the frequency of shader units regardless of GPU, while other programs can only act according to the GPU (shader unit frequency is set relative to the GPU frequency).

The RivaTuner utility can be downloaded. By the way, it was this utility that we used to adjust the fan speed of the 4800 family video cards before the Catalyst 8.10 driver appeared.

PowerStrip cannot overclock GMA 950.

One of the oldest overclocking programs is PowerStrip. This utility for managing PC graphics options has been helping overclock video cards for many years and is quite mature. Its only drawback is that it is not free, unlike other programs that we have discussed. However, PowerStrip can be used for more than just overclocking.

A program that is worth the money

The big advantage of PowerStrip is that it works with most video cards on the market, not just models from AMD and Nvidia. It can be launched from the panel Windows tasks, which means you can set the necessary parameters faster than through drivers. In addition, PowerStrip can customize many display parameters, such as refresh rate, and, more interestingly, output resolution: a necessary option for some HDTV users.

The PowerStrip program can be found.

ATI Tray Tools and ATITool are two different programs

The next two utilities have very similar names, but in fact they are completely different. ATI Tray Tools only supports AMD video cards, and ATITool (despite the seemingly obvious name) works with both AMD models, and with Nvidia.

ATITool and its test image.

This overclocking program is compatible with all Nvidia and AMD graphics cards and is interesting for at least one reason: it has 3D animation rendering that loads the graphics core of the video card and allows you to check if the overclocking settings are working by detecting artifacts. It also has a function for determining the maximum frequency that the GPU can accept (similar to the Auto-Tune function of the Catalyst driver).

The latest version of ATITool can be downloaded.

ATI Tray Tools for AMD only

ATI Tray Tools. Click on the picture to enlarge.

This little program sits in the system tray (hence the name) and helps tune AMD (formerly ATI) video cards. ATI Tray Tools has one small problem: its maximum frequency detection function is too optimistic, which leads to crashes. Like some other applications, this utility is capable of storing profiles that can be loaded in accordance with a particular program, for example, a profile for games, a profile for office applications etc.

Updated versions of the ATI Tray Tools utility are located.

Using the utilities we described, it is quite possible to overclock laptops, although they rarely have a programmable PLL, and the cooling system is not designed for overclocking. Of course, this doesn't stop specialty shops from assembling and overclocking "desktop replacement" machines.

EeeCTL

EeeCTL is a program that can change the processor frequency of laptops that are equipped Celeron processor M (factory clocked at 900 MHz) such as the Eee PC 701 and 900, and models using the Atom N270. Regarding the latter, 2 GHz (compared to the factory clock speed of 1.6 GHz) seems quite acceptable. EeeCTL also allows you to adjust display brightness, fan speed and CPU voltage.

The latest version of EeeCTL can be found.

Conclusion

In this article, we've outlined some of the most useful overclocking utilities, most of which are available for free (provided you purchase the required hardware from a qualified vendor). Of course, we have not covered all available applications.

We also wanted to show you that the image of an overclocker armed with a soldering iron and jumpers is a thing of the past. Even the most advanced overclockers use overclocking programs; this is much more convenient than adjusting in the BIOS (even though the Extensible Firmware Interface specification has improved the situation; read more about EFI technology, in English).

Finally, remember that the art of overclocking is constantly evolving. All the utilities presented here evolve very quickly, since processors and video cards are components that are updated frequently. In fact, the release of the Core i7 will likely usher in a new generation of software as new processor very different from the current Core 2 in the way they control frequencies.

Finally, we will give this recommendation: sometimes it is better to overclock the system through the BIOS. This makes sense for two reasons: firstly, because of efficiency (for example, some programs do not display frequencies correctly), and secondly, because of the choice operating system(most of the programs we've covered are for Windows only).

Every user, one way or another, has come across the concept of processor overclocking. Quite a lot of words have already been said about this. This was especially true for the period when computer hardware manufacturers themselves began to adapt to the first full-fledged operating systems, starting with Windows’95 (Windows 3.x does not count). That’s when the idea of ​​overclocking processors began to emerge, from which it was possible to “squeeze” much more than their nominal characteristics implied.

Overclocking

The very concept of overclocking implies not only overclocking the central processor, but also accelerating the entire system by increasing the performance of one or another “hardware” component. Please note that this applies not only to the central processor, but also, say, to the processor installed on the graphics accelerator.

Here, an important role is played by how the entire system will react to all this. It is absolutely impossible to say that after overclocking the same processor everything will not go to hell, as they say. Here you need to take into account all the fundamental characteristics and performance reserves that the manufacturer himself has included in his own device, present inside a stationary computer terminal, laptop, netbook, ultrabook, etc.

Another important condition is that today physical overclocking methods are not used by the most knowledgeable and far-sighted people. Advanced users use, say, overclocking an Intel processor through a program, which is ultimately the simplest and safest solution.

A little history

If you delve a little into history, you will notice that previously the procedure for overclocking processors was associated purely with physical methods of influence. It was necessary to change jumpers, remove processors from the motherboard, resolder contacts, change bridges, apply increased voltage, etc. and so on.

All this boiled down to the fact that with the wrong approach, all computer hardware was rendered unusable even when the computer was turned on normally (short circuit due to improper soldering, incorrect installation processor or jumper into connectors, etc.).

Now this problem has disappeared by itself. Few manufacturers of the same processor systems leave a wide field for overclockers to operate. But software developers have gone much further. They did the most in a simple way: If you cannot physically increase the system performance, you can overclock the processor using software.

And it turned out to be even more effective method than overclocking in terms of physical intervention and reinstallation of some components on the motherboard.

Where to begin?

First, you need to understand that processors, like any other devices, have, so to speak, a margin of safety. Main and end result It is generally accepted to increase the clock frequency at which the processor is capable of operating, or increase the frequency of the bus on which it is installed. So, absolutely any processor, despite the specified operating clock frequency, can also operate at frequencies that exceed the nominal by 1.2-1.5 times (everything depends only on the manufacturer and what power reserve factor was invested in the device during its creation or production).

If you are already doing overclocking, you should first evaluate the capabilities of the processor itself, the chipset and the motherboard on which it is installed. For example, any program for overclocking an Intel processor will, of course, immediately display the characteristics of the device.

But don't rush. It's better to use apps like Everest. Although this utility is shareware (requires activation after 30 days), it is the one that is capable of providing the user with the most detailed data not only about the central processor, but also about all other components, including even information about the “motherboard” or the same system bus.

Having assessed all the factors, you can begin. True, there are several basic methods.

Physical overclocking

If we talk about what physical overclocking is, then the same program for overclocking an Intel processor is not required in this case. There is no need to solder anything either.

In principle, in this case the simplest example can be given. Take a regular light bulb and connect it to a power supply equipped with a voltage regulator. As the voltage increases, the light bulb begins to glow brighter and vice versa. The same thing happens with processors.

However, with this overclocking option, you need to be extremely careful not to apply too high a current to the input, otherwise not only the processor, but also the motherboard and everything on it will crash.

It’s better to look at the characteristics of the card and the processor in advance in terms of what maximum voltage current can be supplied to them.

Using the BIOS

The program cannot always overclock an Intel processor. The most in a simple way in this regard is the use of BIOS settings (note, at your own risk). When you boot your computer or laptop, you must log in BIOS settings, called by keys like Del, F2, F12 (depending on the manufacturer), and then go to the Advanced tab.

After this, you need to use the Jumper Free Configuration line, where you select manual adjustment of the system bus or processor frequency (Manual) in the All Overclocking field. First you need to fix the bus frequency (PCI-Express Frequency) at 101 MHz, and then increase the processor frequency (CPU Frequency) in 10 MHz increments. Now you need to save the parameters, usually using the F10 key (Save & Exit command).

After the reboot, if the system is stable, you can start increasing the processor frequency again. Only in this case it is necessary to use a step of no more than 1 MHz, again, each time saving the changes and testing the entire system for performance.

Program for overclocking Intel processor

Regarding applications applicable to processors of this type, then there are quite a lot of them today. For example, a utility for overclocking an Intel processor such as SetFSB will be suitable for this.

True, there is one important factor to consider here. The fact is that the application does not overclock the central processor itself, as such, but can vary the system bus frequency. There is a special slider for this. By moving it, in the value fields you can see the initial and current value of the frequency indicator in real time.

It’s worth saying right away that such a program for overclocking an Intel processor is not recommended for beginners. Rather, it is designed for professional overclockers, because by moving the slider too quickly to set extreme values, you can simply “ruin” the entire system, not even in terms of failure of the operating system, but also in the aspect of complete inoperability of the entire hardware.

Overclocking AMD processors

Programs for overclocking Intel and AMD processors have a lot in common. However, according to many specialists and experts, the best application counts AMD utility OverDrive.

Compared to the program described above for Intel processors, it has a lot of advantages. First of all, it is worth noting automatic settings(presets), which allow you to customize the overclocking of absolutely all components without damaging the system. It should also be noted that in this software product The same principle of sliders is used. However, when you configure one component, the application is able to automatically align the settings of all the others. So the “crash” of the system can be avoided.

For experienced users, the program provides a special mode in which the sliders do not depend on each other, and the settings are made in manual mode. But even here you need to be careful.

Problems after overclocking

It’s worth saying right away that not a single application, be it a program for overclocking an Intel processor or utilities for AMD chipsets, cannot give any guarantee that after applying all the steps described above, the computer system will operate in normal mode. This applies not only to the excessive load on the main “hardware” components, which may simply become unusable over time. For example, after overclocking the processor, useful programs and utilities can affect both RAM and even the battery of the same laptop, which will use electricity in high mode when the voltage supply to the central processor increases.

Bottom line

Apparently, every user has already realized that even a program for overclocking an Intel or any other processor cannot guarantee stable operation computer system. In this case, you can only give advice not to do this if you are not a real specialist in this field.

For inexperienced users, I would like to note that all the methods described above can be used, but only if this is done consciously, at your own peril and risk. Even hardware manufacturers, and even more so software developers, do not provide guarantees of system performance.

Increasing processor performance for some - the desire to have the highest available characteristics PC, and for others - a necessity for stable and comfortable work. Both categories of users need proper overclocking, otherwise it may lead to unpleasant consequences and financial waste instead of the expected savings.

First of all, in this case you will need a good overclocking program that will be compatible with motherboard. We talked about similar programs for overclocking Intel processors, and now we want to look at analogues for AMD.

This program was created specifically by AMD for users who want to get a performance boost. It is completely free, but at the same time truly effective and functional.
Let's start with the advantages, of which this program has plenty. For AMD OverDrive, it doesn't matter what kind of motherboard you have, as long as the processor is compatible. Full list The supported processors are as follows: Hudson-D3, 770, 780/785/890 G, 790/990 X, 790/890 GX, 790/890/990 FX. Actually, products are supported both new and “not the first freshness”, i.e. those released 5 years ago or more. But most a big plus program is a list of its capabilities. It has everything for high-quality overclocking: control sensors, testing, manual and automatic overclocking. You will find a more detailed description of the possibilities by clicking on the link located just below.

The only downside that can be noted is the lack of Russian language, which, however, does not interfere with most home overclockers. Well, and the fact that Intel owners, unfortunately, will not be able to use AMD OverDrive.

ClockGen

KlockGen is a program that, unlike the previous one, is not as beautiful or convenient, but the main thing is that it is functional. In comparison with many small analogues, it is of interest because it works not only with the FSB bus, but also with the processor, RAM. For high-quality overclocking, there is also the ability to monitor temperature changes. The lightweight and compact utility supports many motherboards and PLLs, does not take up space on your hard drive and does not load the system.

But not everything is so wonderful: there is no Russian language again, and ClockGen itself has not been supported by its creator for a long time, so new and even relatively new components are incompatible with it. But old computers can be overclocked so that they get a second life.

SetFSB

This program is universal, as it is suitable for both Intel and AMD. Users often choose it for overclocking, noting such advantages as support for many motherboards, simple interface and use. One of the main advantages is that SetFSB allows you to programmatically identify the chip. This is especially true for laptop owners who cannot recognize their PLL. SetFSB works in the same way as ClockGen - before rebooting the PC, which significantly reduces possible risks, such as failure of the motherboard, overheating of devices. Since the program is still supported by the developer, he is also responsible for the relevance of supported versions of motherboards.

The disadvantages include the fact that residents living in the Russian Federation will have to pay approximately $6 for use latest version programs, and even after purchase there is no need to wait for Russification.

In this article we talked about three programs that are suitable for overclocking AMD processor. The user will have to choose a program based on the processor and motherboard model, as well as their own preferences.

As you already understand, we specifically selected programs that can work with hardware from different years of production. For older computers, ClockGen is perfect, for those that are newer - SetFSB, but for owners of medium and new ones AMD help OverDrive.

In addition, the capabilities of the programs also differ. ClockGen, for example, allows you to overclock the buses, RAM and processor; SetFSB additionally helps identify PLLs, and AMD OverDrive has great amount functions for full overclocking with checking, so to speak, quality.

From the very beginning I want to note that good programs I couldn’t find one for overclocking the processor in Russian.

Bios is the most The best way, (by following the link you will receive complete instructions).

Only it’s also in English, but don’t despair, I’ll tell you good method, how to use English versions.

To do this, you will need to download and install the free Russian utility QDictionary. With its help, you can easily find out what a particular word means in English.

Programs for overclocking the processor

AsRock OC Tuner is one of the most popular utilities for determining processor parameters.

It contains 4 sections: overclocking, temperature control, monitoring of key system parameters and voltage control. Here is the download link:

Http://www.asrock.com/feature/octuner/download.asp

ASUS TurboV EVO - this program overclocks it by increasing the multiplier of installed cores.

This can be done manually or automatically, with just one keystroke. You can download it from here:

Http://download.chip.eu/ru/ASUS-TurboV_181020415.html

Gigabyte EasyTune - this program is also capable of overclocking the processor in a Windows system.

It has the ability to set a maximum threshold for speed changes, after which it itself will automatically notify you that you are at the limit. Link:

Http://www.gigabyte.com/support-downloads/utility.aspx

Intel SetFSB- this program overclocks Intel processors. It adjusts the bus frequency directly from under Windows.

The archive contains instructions, and you can download them from this link: http://hotdownloads.ru/setfsb

MSI Control Center- This new program to overclock the processor. Use it to configure your operating system to maximum performance very simple.

Just be careful not to overdo it. Here is the link:

Http://www.microstar.ru/program/support/software/swr/spt_swr_list.php?kind=1

By overclocking your processor, you risk permanently damaging it. Be careful and attentive. The site administration is not responsible for your actions after reading this article.

Helper utilities for overclocking the processor

First of all, in order to overclock your processor, you will need a small set of utilities that will help you monitor the health of your system and its stability, as well as the temperature of the processor. Below we list a list of utilities and programs and briefly describe what they are responsible for.

CPU-Z– small, but very useful utility, which will show all the main technical information your central processor. Useful for monitoring frequencies and voltages. Free.

CoreTemp- another one free utility, is somewhat similar to CPU-Z, but does not delve so deeply into technical indicators, but displays the temperature of the processor cores and their load.

Speccy– shows detailed technical information not only about the processor, but also about the entire computer as a whole. There is also temperature information different components systems.

LinX – free program, which we will need to test the stability of the system after each stage of increasing processor performance. It is one of the best programs for stress tests. It loads the processor at 100%, so don’t be alarmed, sometimes it may seem like the computer is frozen.

CPU overclocking

Before learning how to overclock a processor, I strongly recommend that you stress test your computer in an unoverclocked state (for example, with a program FurMark). This is necessary in order to determine the approximate potential for overclocking and generally check the system for errors.

If in an unoverclocked state the test produces any errors or the temperature during testing is prohibitively high, then it is better to end your “overclocking” at this point.

If everything works stably and then we can continue. And better mark for yourself key characteristics non-overclocked system, such as minimum processor temperature, maximum processor temperature, voltage, etc. Better yet, take a screenshot of the screen or take a photo on your phone so that you have it at hand just in case. detailed information. This is necessary to analyze deviations of indicators from nominal values. Not critically important, but very useful and inquisitive.

In general, there are two ways to overclock a processor - manually through the BIOS and using special programs. These methods are equally easy to use, but there are people who are afraid to get into the BIOS, so we will tell you how to overclock the processor using both methods.

Do not forget also that overclocking the processor may be hampered by insufficient power supply power. When buying a computer, it is better to buy a power supply with a small power reserve. This will allow you to painlessly upgrade your hardware, and also, as in today’s topic, will provide an opportunity for overclocking.

Overclocking the processor via BIOS

First of all, I will tell you how to overclock a processor through BIOS. On our website we have already repeatedly told how it is possible. It depends on the manufacturer of your computer's motherboard. When you turn on (or restart) your computer, even before the operating system starts loading, you need to click key to enter BIOS settings. You can find out which key to press from the prompt when you turn on the computer or in the instructions (documentation) of your motherboard. Most often these are the keys: Del, F2 or F8, but there may be others.

Once you are in the BIOS, you need to go to the Advanced tab. Next, I will tell you using my computer as an example, but everything should be very similar for you. Although, of course, there will be differences. This is due to different BIOS versions and different available settings for the processor. Perhaps this tab will be called, for example, CPU Configuration or something else. You need to wander through the BIOS and understand which section is responsible for setting up the central processor.

OverclockTunner by default it is in position Auto. Move it to position Manual in order for you to have access to additional manual settings processor operation.

After this, please note that you will have the FSB Frequency item, where you can adjust base frequency processor buses. Essentially, this frequency multiplied by the processor multiplier (CPU Ratio) gives us the full operating frequency of your processor. That is, you can increase the frequency either by increasing the bus frequency or by increasing the multiplier value.

What is better to increase, the bus frequency or the multiplier?

A very relevant question for beginners. Let's start with the fact that not all processors will allow you to increase the multiplier value. There are processors with a locked multiplier, and others with an unlocked one. For Intel processors, processors with an unlocked multiplier can be identified by the suffix “ K" or " X" at the end of the processor name, as well as the series Extreme Edition, and for AMD - by the suffix “ FX"and for the Black Edition series. But it is best to carefully look at the detailed characteristics, because there are always exceptions. Please note that everything has an open multiplier.

If possible It is best to overclock the processor by increasing the multiplier value. This will be safer for the system. But overclocking the processor by increasing the bus frequency is highly not recommended, especially for overclocking beginners. Why? Because by changing this indicator, you not only overclock the central processor, but also affect the characteristics of other computer components, and often these changes can get out of control and harm your computer. But if you are aware of your actions, then everything is in your hands.

Stages of overclocking a processor via BIOS

In principle, there is nothing complicated about this. But everything needs to be done slowly and carefully. So, for example, if you are planning to overclock your processor to the maximum, then you should not increase the processor frequency by 500 MHz at once, increase it gradually, first by 150 MHz, conduct a stress test, make sure that everything works stably. Then raise the frequency by another 150-100 MHz and so on. Towards the end it is better to reduce the step to 25-50 MHz.

When you reach a frequency at which the computer cannot cope with the stress test, go into the BIOS and return the frequencies to the last successful stage. For example, at a frequency of 3700 MHz the computer passed the stress test successfully, but at a frequency of 3750 MHz it already “failed” the test, which means its maximum possible operating frequency will be 3700 MHz.

Of course, you can still go through various specific tests and identify the “weak link” (power supply or cooling system), but why do we need these extremes, right?

Overclocking the processor with special programs

In general, I would recommend overclocking the processor manually in the BIOS, but if the BIOS environment is alien to you, then you can use special programs to overclock the processor. There are many such programs. Some of them are more suitable for INTEL processors, while others are more suitable for AMD processors. Although the principle of operation is almost identical. So let's find out how to overclock a processor using special programs.

Utility SetFSB designed to overclock the processor on the bus. This is clear from the name. The developers are proud that SetFSB is lightweight and performs all its functions perfectly.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION!!! I downloaded the program from the “official website” and from the SOFTPORTAL portal. The contents of the archives vary greatly. If on the soft portal the archive weighs less than 200 KB and, in addition to the utility, has instructions for its use, then on the “official website” in the archive there is another archive, which contains a suspicious .exe file weighing more than 5 MB and there are no additional instructions. When you run the file, Windows says that the license has been verified, but the license belongs to some Ukrainian shipbuilding company, judging by the name “SUDNOBUDUVANNYA TA REMONT, TOV”. I decided to cancel the installation.

Download the program from the SOFTPORTAL website, and not from the official one. Apparently the official website is fake.

So, before entering the program, it is strongly recommended to check the list of motherboards that this utility works with. This list is in the file setfsb.txt. If you find your motherboard, continue. If not, then you are taking a huge risk by continuing to use this utility.

When you run SetFSB, you will need to enter a temporary ID in the required field. Just retype the name of the small window in the field in it. Why is this? The creators assume that if you have not read the instructions, then you will not be able to go beyond this window and will go read the instructions to find out what you need to enter into it, and at the same time read another useful information, which can prevent damage to your processor (and motherboard).

Next comes the hardest part - you need to choose your parameter Clock Generator. To find out, you need to disassemble the computer and carefully examine the motherboard in search of a chip with a name starting with the letters “ ICS" There may be other letters, but these are found in 95% of cases.

When you do this, click on the Get FSB button and your sliders will be unlocked. And you will need to move the first slider quite a bit to the right, each time pressing the SET FSB button, so that the example = thread changed parameters. And you will have to do this until you reach the desired processor frequency characteristics. If you overdo it, the computer will freeze and you will have to start all over again.

Overclocking a CPU Using CPUFSB

Utility CPUFSB Not much different in functionality from the SetFSB just discussed. However, there is something to praise her for. The first and quite significant plus is that the utility is completely Russified, which is very convenient, you will agree. The program is more tailored for Intel processors, but it can also be applied to AMD processors.

To overclock the processor in the CPUFSB program, you will need to sequentially:

1. Provide the necessary information about your motherboard and the type of clock generator (Clock Generator).
2. Then click on “ Take frequency».
3. Move the slider to the right to change the processor frequency.
4. At the end, click on " Set frequency».

There is nothing complicated. You can understand the settings intuitively even without prompts.

Other programs for overclocking the processor

We examined in more or less detail the most frequently used programs that are used to overclock the processor. However, the list of programs does not end there. But we will not describe them in detail, because the principle of their operation is similar to the previous ones. Here is a small list of programs for overclocking the processor, which you can use if the first ones did not suit you or you could not download them.

1. Over Drive
2. ClockGen
3. ThrottleStop
4. SoftFSB
5. CPUCool

Conclusion

Now you know how to overclock a processor, and maybe you’ve even already tried to do it yourself while reading the article. I hope everything went well for you and without unpleasant consequences. Remember Golden Rule – Better a bird in the hand than a pie in the sky! Therefore, do not overclock with overclocking, otherwise you will have to buy a new processor, and maybe even a motherboard.

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