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How to overclock a processor - the right way. How to overclock the processor on a computer or laptop

Using the experience of other users, we can confidently say that the universal and most commonly used programs for overclocking the system are:

  • setFSB;
  • CPUFSB;
  • SoftFSB.

We will talk about them, but at the end of the article, but first we will study the theory and carry out preparatory work.

What is important to know before overclocking an Intel processor?

Of course, you can immediately go to the end of the article, download the software and get started. But thoughtlessly, without understanding the process itself, pressing the “pedals” in the program can lead to a somewhat unexpected result. And the instructions say that this software is intended for “experienced users.” Therefore, for now we just read and delve into it.

Frequency increase

So, an increase in system performance can be obtained by increasing the clock speed of the central processing unit (CPU) or the system bus (FSB - front system bus). But most modern CPUs do not allow increasing the clock frequency, because this limitation is imposed by the computer manufacturer. In this case, it is necessary to increase the FSB clock frequency. At the same time, you need to understand that changing the system bus parameters will entail a change in the operation of not only the CPU, but also other modules of the personal computer - memory, video card or network card.

Changing the multiplier

The frequency at which the processor or system bus operates is the clock frequency of the generator itself, multiplied by some number, a multiplier. You can determine the multiplier using specialized computer testing software, such as CPU-Z. In essence, “overclocking” is an increase in this particular parameter. You can change it both in the BIOS subsystem, before loading the operating system, and using programs launched already under the Windows operating system.

Increasing supply voltage

Increasing the clock frequency multiplier often leads to unstable operation of the system as a whole and does not give the expected effect without increasing the supply voltage. This is especially noticeable with a significant increase in multipliers. Consequently, it is necessary to increase the supply voltage of both the processor and the bus itself. However, when changing the voltage, care must be taken not to exceed the permissible limits. Also, you should be aware that increasing the supply voltage inevitably entails an increase in the CPU temperature and the need for effective cooling.

Preparing to overclock the processor

We have studied the theory and finally move on to practice.

We go into the BIOS and see if the manufacturer allows changing the frequency multiplier, processor supply voltage, etc. We are not changing anything for now, we are just studying the situation. We also find a jumper with the inscription “clear cmos”. It will be useful to us if, by changing the parameters, we cannot start the computer.

We boot the computer and run the CPU-Z program. This is free software and can be easily found and downloaded online. We study the system in detail, the current values ​​of frequencies and multipliers. There, on the Internet, we find another program - HWMonitor. Using it, we determine the current readings of the system temperature.

We try to load the computer with a stress test from the first program and measure the temperature with the second program.

If the temperature values ​​exceed 60 degrees without “overclocking”, you can stop there. Unfortunately, this system cannot be overclocked.

If the temperature test passes, you should search the Internet for information about the processor and motherboard installed in the computer. In addition, you need to determine which PLL chip - frequency generator - is installed on the motherboard. We need this information when using specialized software.

Overclocking an intel processor on a laptop

Let's take a short break and talk about laptops. The situation here is not very good, because laptop hardware systems are the worst to overclock, and there are several reasons for this:

  • an “overclocked” processor generates more heat, and cooling a hot chip in the limited space of a laptop case is quite a task;
  • The laptop power system is not designed for the increased power consumption of an “overclocked” processor or bus;
  • It is not always possible to find the necessary data (find out the frequency generator chip and select software) to overclock the processor or FSB of a laptop using software. And if it succeeds, then the practical implementation fails - the system freezes for one reason or another: either the laptop memory cannot operate at the specified frequency, or the built-in video card fails.

Therefore, laptop manufacturers limit as much as possible the possibilities of increasing the processor or bus frequency, as well as voltage values, using the BIOS subsystem.

Despite all this, sometimes it is possible to increase the performance of standard laptops, but as side effects we get an increase in fan noise and a decrease in the battery life of the laptop.

Overclocking the processor via BIOS

Let's continue! The simplest method, used since the days of the first Pentiums, is to increase the frequency values ​​directly in the computer BIOS. Modern BIOS subsystems do not always allow you to change the set parameters, but if the manufacturer provides such an opportunity, then a wide field of activity is open to the user. The screenshots below show an example of BIOS settings before and after overclocking.

Changed parameters are marked in red.

If, after adjusting the values, the system freezes and access to the bios setup is impossible, you should reset the default settings by closing certain contacts on the motherboard or removing the battery.

Programs for overclocking Intel processors

If the motherboard manufacturer has limited overclocking capabilities by changing settings in the BIOS, you can try to overclock the system using special programs.

SetFSB

A very popular program among overclockers. Allows you to set the bus frequency, contains a large PLL database. It’s easy to work with the program, but it’s just as easy to crash the operating system. Therefore, we change the frequency values ​​smoothly, in small steps.

An unpleasant nuance. Starting from version 2.2.134, the program is paid, the setfsb button is inactive, and the command line mode does not work. There are two solutions to the problem: either use older versions of the software, or look for ways to register later versions.

So, step by step:

  • select “our” clock-generator
  • press the “get fsb” button
  • smoothly move the slider a couple of steps
  • press the “set fsb” button

We determine the stability of the system using stress tests. We repeat until we get BSOD or satisfaction from overclocking. Since all manipulations are performed only at the time the program is launched, after restarting the computer, the original settings are returned. To permanently use clock frequency settings, you must enable the program's command mode. Details are specified in the setfsb.txt file in the program folder. The same file contains a list of supported motherboards and frequency generators.

CPUFSB

An application similar in functionality. In this case, there is a correct translation into Russian.

Essentially, CPUFSB is a dedicated CPUCool software module - a utility for monitoring and overclocking the processor. The program supports a large number of motherboards from various manufacturers.

The operating procedure is similar:

  • select the type of motherboard;
  • select the PLL chip type;
  • “take frequency” - get current values;
  • change the current frequency values ​​- “set frequency”.

Frequency settings are saved until the system is rebooted.

SoftFSB

Another application for changing the clock frequency of the bus or processor. Unfortunately, the program is not currently supported by the author. Consequently, it may not run on modern systems, since it “does not know” about the latest PLL releases.

The principle of operation of the program is the same - select the correct motherboard and clock generator, read the data, smoothly change the current settings and write them.

Consequences of overclocking are the user's responsibility

As a result, we have the following:

  • overclocking a computer involves increasing frequencies and voltages;
  • You can change the frequency values ​​both in the BIOS and programmatically;
  • Overclocking software operates in the same way. The differences between the utilities lie in the ability to support particular equipment;
  • not every equipment can be “overclocked”;
  • increasing frequencies and voltages should occur step by step.

And the most important thing -

Responsibility for all actions taken related to changing the standard settings of the equipment rests entirely with the person who made these changes.

Today we will talk about overclocking Intel processors and look in detail at the program with which it will be easiest to do this. But, in the beginning, we will find out what overclocking is, why it is needed at all, and what consequences of overclocking await us in the future. People who overclock are called overlockers.

Conventionally, all overlockers are divided into three categories

  1. The first type is beginner and economical overlockers. In order to save money, they want to get maximum productivity while spending as little money as possible. In this case, the computer is assembled from not the most expensive components, which may be obviously outdated. In general, they buy what they have enough money for. Naturally, the performance of such a computer system is far from the desired level. Therefore, owners of such equipment are starting to overclock the processor in order to at least slightly increase the performance of their PC.
  2. The second type includes the so-called experienced overlockers. Their goal is to get maximum performance and enjoyment from the overclocking process itself, without spending extra money. Experienced overlockers, even at the stage of purchasing not the cheapest equipment, try to choose it with the expectation of a further upgrade. They thoughtfully choose every component of their future computer. If it is a motherboard, then it must have ample capabilities to support various components; if it is a processor, then it must have built-in overclocking capabilities, etc. As a result, very often such systems, after overclocking, have at least comparable performance to top-end computers operating in nominal mode. But often such productivity is not vitally necessary, and the overlocker simply likes to enjoy a job well done.
  3. The third type of overclockers are extreme overclockers. For them, the goal of overclocking is to achieve the highest possible performance by any means necessary and regardless of price. They are constantly looking for older models, the most powerful components, achieving extremely low temperatures, etc. The main thing for them is to end up with a system with parameters that are inaccessible to most PC users.

Of course, such a division is conditional and there are no clear boundaries between overlockers. Over time, beginners move into the group of experienced ones; experienced ones, if they have the desire and opportunity, become extreme sports enthusiasts. But, one way or another, they all started somewhere, and any serious undertaking is preceded by theoretical preparation. So, first of all, we will deal with a little theory of processor overclocking.

Collecting system information

Before you start overclocking your processor, you need to have an idea of ​​what you're dealing with. First you need to start studying your system. Identify all the components, study the motherboard manual, use information and diagnostic utilities, conduct performance tests, note the maximum and minimum temperatures under various system loads, etc. After overclocking the processor, you can compare the data obtained with the indicators that the system had before increasing the processor frequency. In addition, with the help of preliminary tests you can make sure that the system operates stably at the rated frequency and voltage.

Required programs

Both before and during overclocking, you will need special programs and utilities. Again, they are conventionally divided into several categories: programs for diagnostics, monitoring, overclocking, checking system stability, and utilities for measuring performance.

In real life, the clear boundaries between these categories are very blurred. Using diagnostic programs, you can measure performance, and utilities designed for monitoring can overclock the processor. It’s just that each program has a main direction for which it is optimally suited and several auxiliary non-core functions.

Diagnostic information software is designed primarily to determine the configuration of your system. The most powerful and functional of them are Lavalys Everest and SiSoftware Sandra.

But these packages are not limited solely to defining the system configuration. These software systems are capable of monitoring, measuring performance, and testing the stability of a computer. However, the use of such programs for all areas at once is not always justified, especially since they are distributed for a fee, and only a part of the capabilities are available in free packages. Such cumbersome programs can be replaced with lesser-known, but no less effective utilities. For example, the CPU-Z utility is very popular among overlockers, capable of reporting information about both the processor itself and the motherboard and RAM. To carry out detailed control and manage memory timings, you can use the small MemSet program.

To overclock the processor, the best option is to use the BIOS. But, unfortunately, computer manufacturers do not always provide such an opportunity. In this case, you can use the universal SetFSB utility, which we will look at in more detail later. In addition, you should always familiarize yourself with the contents of the CD that comes with the motherboard. Manufacturers often supply their own programs with drivers, which have the ability to overclock the processor from Windows.

You should always remember one important truth: none of the existing processor overclocking programs can give you a 100% guarantee. But the chances will increase significantly if you use several different utilities for overclocking, monitoring and testing. The OCCT or S&M utilities will help you check the stability of the system.

Hundreds of special programs have been written to measure system performance. Such utilities test either the system as a whole or its components separately. An example of a simple but functional program is NovaBench.

CPU Overclocking Basics

Overclocking is the forced operation of the processor at frequencies higher than the nominal frequency. The reasons why overclocking is even feasible can be different. This reason may be a large safety margin built into the processor architecture by the manufacturer or some kind of marketing ploy. This is not so important, the main thing is to skillfully use the opportunities provided.

Despite the huge variety of computer components inside a PC, everything is largely standardized. This is caused by the need to synchronize components from different manufacturers. The starting point is the system bus frequency –FSB. At the same time, various buses on the motherboard (channels), which connect various components of the board, have an information transmission frequency lower than the FSB. Therefore, when setting their nominal frequencies, dividers are used. But since modern processors have a noticeably higher frequency, multipliers are used in order for it to operate at its nominal frequency.

Let's give an example. The Intel Core 2 Duo E6300 processor operates at a bus frequency of 266 MHz. Its multiplier is x7. The product of the FSB frequency by this multiplier will give the final processor frequency of 1.86 GHz. Therefore, in order to overclock the processor, it is necessary to either increase the FSB frequency or the multiplier.

Older models of modern processors are characterized by free multipliers. But such processors have a high cost, which can be an order of magnitude higher than that of the younger processors of the family. Therefore, purchasing such processors is not entirely rational, since with the help of overclocking it is possible to achieve performance of younger processors comparable to the performance of their older brothers.

Therefore, overclocking any processor usually means increasing the FSB frequency. If we take as an example overclocking an intel core 2 duo processor, then by increasing the bus frequency to 400 MHz, the processor frequency can increase to 2.8 GHz. If we increase the FSB to 500, then in this case the processor frequency will already be 3.5 GHz. This information is basic and already knowing it, you can head to the BIOS and start increasing the FSB frequency, thereby overclocking your processor. But still, before starting overclocking, you should carry out some preparatory work, which we will consider below.

Preparatory stage

Before you start overclocking the processor, you have to perform a couple of mandatory steps. The first step is to go to the website of your motherboard manufacturer and check if a more recent BIOS version is posted there. There are many cases where completely unsuccessful motherboards, after updating the BIOS, found a second life, literally. In addition, updating the version can not only correct the errors found, but also introduce new parameters and capabilities into the board’s BIOS. You can find out which BIOS version you are currently using when the motherboard starts. If information appears for a very short period of time and you do not have time to read it, then press the Pause key on your keyboard. The BIOS version can also sometimes be seen using information and diagnostic utilities. Of course, not in all cases the new BIOS version is better suited for overclocking than the old one, but the new version at least eliminates the errors of earlier versions.

Nuances of overclocking Intel Core processors

A characteristic feature of all processors with Core microarchitecture is high performance. Since they lend themselves well to overclocking, we will pay special attention to them.

Core processors, in addition to a large number of advantages, also have a number of disadvantages unique to them, which still complicate the overclocking process. Such processors have their own feature - the so-called FSB Wall. This concept describes the maximum bus clock speed at which this processor can operate. By reducing the multiplier to x6, you can find out what maximum bus frequency your instance can operate at.

By the way, a processor with a nominal bus frequency of 200 MHz is almost never overclocked to a frequency exceeding 400 MHz FSB. This factor should be taken into account when choosing a Core series processor. Why pay for a processor from an older line, if it is much cheaper and easier to overclock a junior processor. It must be remembered that younger CPUs with a nominal x8 multiplier will most likely be limited due to the FSB Wall, and therefore the frequency after overclocking will not be able to go above 3.2 GHz. Therefore, in order not to limit yourself in advance to the maximum possible frequency, when purchasing, pay attention to processors that have a x9 multiplier.

Processors with a nominal bus frequency of 266 or 333 MHz are also selected as low-end ones and have a x7 multiplier. But here, in addition to the notorious FSB Wall, overclocking can be complicated in addition by the capabilities of the motherboard and RAM. Such processors should also be chosen with a multiplier of x8 or higher. However, here too a new danger awaits overlockers - FSB Strap.

FSB Strap, a parameter that characterizes not the processor itself, but the chipset and motherboard. This is the frequency at which the chipset switches operating modes. For example, after overclocking the processor, the performance of systems built on a Gigabyte motherboard and Intel P965 Express chipset immediately drops. But the motherboard from the manufacturer Asus, built on the same chipset, shows high performance even at 400 MHz. When testing the Asus Striker Extreme motherboard with the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI chipset, performance dropped during the transition from FSB frequency 420 MHz to 425 MHz.

Overclocking the processor using the SetFSB program

Now that the theoretical part is over, we can start overclocking the Intel processor. As an example, let's take the very popular and effective SetFSB program.

After launching the utility, a similar window should appear on your screen.

At the very beginning you select a PLL chip. You can see which chip is installed either visually on the motherboard or using special utilities. It may happen that your chip is not on the list, then you will have to look for other utilities that support your chip type. As a last resort, you can contact the author of this utility and ask to add the chip you need to the program. But this procedure will take a lot of time and it is not a fact that the developer will even respond to your request.

After you have selected your chip, click the Get FSB button.

The window will display various frequency values, including the frequency at which the processor is currently operating. The current frequency is highlighted in the Current CPU Frequency window. In our case, this is a frequency of 1198.2 MHz.

We will overclock the processor by increasing the system bus frequency. To increase the named frequency, you need to move the slider located in the center of the window to the right. Tabs and sliders that are located nearby are best left as they are to avoid unexpected problems. If you want to increase the frequency adjustment range, check the box to the left of Ultra, as shown in the previous figure.

Now move the slider a little to the right. As a result, the frequency should increase by 10-15 MHz.

For the changes you have made to take effect, you must click the SetFSB button.

If after you clicked the SetFSB button, the computer freezes or turns off, do not be alarmed. This just means that you either specified the wrong PLL, or you overestimated the frequency very much. After a reboot, everything will return to normal and you can make changes. If you did everything correctly, the processor clock speed will increase. Look at the picture below.

In order to make sure that your computer is stable after overclocking, you will need to test it using a utility. We chose Preime95.

After launching the utility, click on the Just Stress Testing button, as shown in the figure above. Afterwards, the following window should appear on your PC screen:

Select the third item and click OK. After this, testing your system should start.

If you wish, simultaneously with the Preime95 utility, you can run the HWMonitor utility, which will monitor the temperature of your processor, as well as other components during the test.

The Prime95 program has the ability to generate a serious load on the computer processor. Testing will be successful if the processor works stably for at least fifteen minutes and does not freeze. After successful completion of testing, you can try to further increase the processor frequency and run system testing again.

If you want to abort the test earlier, you can do this using the menu, as shown in the figure below.

By increasing the frequency and immediately checking the stability of the system using Prime95, you can achieve the maximum processor frequency at which it will work stably for a long period of time under maximum loads. After all the manipulations with overclocking and determining the optimal frequency, you need to add the SetFSB program to startup. Otherwise, all your changes will be lost after the first reboot of the PC.

First of all, create a bat script. Why do you need a regular standard Notepad, in which you need to make something like this:

c:\Program Files (x86)\SetFSB 2.2.129.95\setfsb.exe -w15 -s668 -cg

c:\Program Files (x86)\SetFSB 2.2.129.95\setfsb.exe is your path to the SetFSB utility on your computer. Naturally, it may differ for different users.

w15 – with this parameter you set the required delay before starting SetFSB. Time is indicated in seconds.

s668 – entry indicating the overclocking setting. This parameter is very important. In the figure, in our case, this is the number 668 (the first number to the right of the slider, which is located in the green field)

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