How To: Overclocking Your AMD Processor
Test Hardware, Tools, BIOS Settings, And Warnings
Test Hardware | |
---|---|
Processors | AMD Phenom II X4 940 Black Edition (45 nm, Quad-Core, Deneb, AM2+) |
Row 1 - Cell 0 | AMD Phenom X4 9950 Black Edition (65 nm, Quad-Core, Agena, AM2+) |
Row 2 - Cell 0 | AMD Athlon X2 7750 Black Edition (65 nm, Dual-Core, Kuma, AM2+) |
Row 3 - Cell 0 | AMD Athlon 64 X2 5400+ Black Edition (65 nm, Dual Core, Brisbane, AM2) |
Memory | 4 GB (2*2 GB) Patriot PC2-6400 (4-4-4-12) |
Row 5 - Cell 0 | 4 GB (2*2 GB) G.Skill Pi Black PC2-6400 (4-4-4-12) |
Graphics Cards | AMD Radeon HD 4870 X2 |
Row 7 - Cell 0 | AMD Radeon HD 4850 |
Coolers | Arctic Cooling Freezer 64 Pro |
Row 9 - Cell 0 | Xigmatek HDT-S963 |
Motherboard | Asus M3A78-T (790GX+750SB) |
Power Supplies | Antec NeoPower 650 W |
Row 12 - Cell 0 | Antec True Power Trio 650 W |
Useful Tools:
AMD OverDrive: Overclocking Utility
CPU-Z: System Information Utility
Prime95: Stability Test
Memtest86: Memory-Test Bootable CD
Hardware Monitoring: Hardware Monitor, Core Temp, Asus Probe II, other motherboard utilities
Performance Testing: W Prime, Super Pi Mod, Cinebench, 3DMark 2006 CPU test, 3DMark Vantage CPU test
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Recommended BIOS Settings:
Disable Cool ‘n’ Quiet
Disable C1E
Disable Spread Spectrum
Disable Smart CPU Fan Control
Manually set Memory Timings
Windows Power Option: High Performance
Caution:
Here's the obligatory disclaimer about breaking past manufacturer specifications: overclock at your own risk. Most hardware manufacturers, including AMD, do not warranty damage done by overclocking, even when using utilities they provide. Tom’s Hardware or this author cannot be held responsible for any damages that may occur while you overclock.
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