Safely Overclocking i5-2500k with a Noctua NH L12

7homsen

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Nov 13, 2011
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Right, so I'm new at even trying to overclock. I've got the Noctua NH-L12. As far as i know the manufacturer doesn't recommend using this CPU cooler for overclocking, but I've heard mixed things about it. Does anyone have any experience with it or know how much I can OC it to while it still being safe?
 
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this is designed to fit in mini itx/htpc cases and still run a high end cpu for overclock. it probably isn't quite as good as a common cooler master hyper 212, it still is much better than the stock intel and probably the best low profile air cooler around. i see no reason why you shouldn't be able to get a decent 4.2-4.3ghz overclock out of the 2500k. you should download hwmonitor, intel burn test, and prime95. then you should just plug in a 42x multiplier and run intel burn test on maximum real quick for a few minutes to see what your temps are getting up to. as long as you are not going over 80c your good.

i guarantee you will be stable, but check the bios and what the cvid automatically changes your vcore voltage to and note...
this is designed to fit in mini itx/htpc cases and still run a high end cpu for overclock. it probably isn't quite as good as a common cooler master hyper 212, it still is much better than the stock intel and probably the best low profile air cooler around. i see no reason why you shouldn't be able to get a decent 4.2-4.3ghz overclock out of the 2500k. you should download hwmonitor, intel burn test, and prime95. then you should just plug in a 42x multiplier and run intel burn test on maximum real quick for a few minutes to see what your temps are getting up to. as long as you are not going over 80c your good.

i guarantee you will be stable, but check the bios and what the cvid automatically changes your vcore voltage to and note that and then compare that value to what hwmonitor says the min/max vcore voltage is in windows. you can then start moving the voltage down manually in the bios one increment at a time to lower the heat output. i personally use intel burn test at max for like 20 minutes a few times to check voltages and temps until i feel comfortable and then run prime95 small fft overnight for like 8-12 hours to check long term stability.
 
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