General FAQ's

[FZ1]

If you spend any amount of time on computing forums, invariably you'll see these questions asked on a daily basis. If you don't see the answer to your question here, please try searching for it before asking. Even though you might not find your answer, you might find other information that would be helpful in determining the answer.

Q: Why does (insert software app name here) say that my vcore voltage is X when I have it set at Y?

A: There are no 100% accurate readings from software or even the BIOS (many software apps report BIOS readings). There can be major differences between what is reported and what is actually used. They only way to accurately measure is with a voltage multimeter tool and if you don’t know what you are doing it is a risky procedure. Use the value you set in the BIOS as your most accurate estimation. Some boards may run a little higher or lower than this but it should be close.
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Q: What is the highest voltage I should use for my AMD64 CPU?

A: There is no simple or exact answer to this due to the array of CPU's available and the variances in tolerances even within the same CPU types (http://www.amdcompare.com/us-en/desktop/Default.aspx ). Using high voltage can kill your processor. If not instantly, then by reducing it's useful lifespan (Google electron migration). People have reported a reduction in overclock ability over time in chips that have been run with high voltage. The generally accepted rule of thumb is (temperatures not withstanding):
- 0-10% over stock voltage – no worries.
- 11-15% over stock - relatively safe, may reduce long term CPU life
- 16-20% over stock - somewhat risky, odds are the longevity of the CPU will be impacted
- 21%+ over stock - very risky, will almost definitely limit lifespan of CPU in proportion to the amount used.
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Q: Why does (insert software app name here) report my CPU temps to be x? That seems high/low.

A: Again there are no 100% accurate readings from software or the BIOS (many software apps report BIOS readings). There can be major differences between what is reported and the actual temp as they are typically estimated using temps from outside the core. There can be as much as a 10 degree difference between the reported temperature and the actual core temperature.
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Q: How hot is too hot for my AMD64 CPU?

A: Again, no easy answer. Different chips have different rated temperature thresholds (http://www.amdcompare.com/us-en/desktop/Default.aspx). Most people will not go over 55c and most try to limit the max load temp to 50c. The max rated temperature for most AMD64's is 65 or 70 degrees. Bearing in mind the potential 10 degree difference in actual temps versus reported temps, it would be prudent to stay 10 degrees below the max rated temps for your chip. Generally, the cooler it is, the more stable it will be (to a point). Heat can and will kill your processor if you let it.
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Q: How can I reduce my CPU temps?

A: There are several ways:
- Use a better air cooling solution (especially if you are using the stock heat sink)
- Make sure you have good overall case airflow, especially when cooling on air.
- Move to an alternative cooling medium such as water or phase cooling.
- Removed the HIS (integrated heat spreader) on your CPU (VERY RISKY)
- Use quality TIM (thermal interface material) paste such as AS5
- If you are overvolting, reduce your voltage (more voltage = more heat).
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Q: What is the best motherboard/RAM/CPU/case/etc for me?

A: No one can answer this for you. However, people may be able to guide you in your quest if given some info. In order to assist you it is helpful to know the following:
-your existing equipment
-how much money you are willing to spend
-what hardware you had in mind (if any)
-what you plan to do with your hardware (i.e. gaming, video editing, etc)
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Q: Why can't I overclock to X? My friend has the same processor as I do and he can overclock to X.

A: All CPU's are unique and no 2 will perform the same. Sorry, life's not fair. Not to mention it is heavily dependent on your other components and cooling.

[ThunDA]

Nice faq opty killer..ummm I mean Joe.. !! :D

Definitly covers some of the most frequently asked questions..

[Capper]

Originally Posted by THunDA

Nice faq opty killer..ummm I mean Joe.. !! :D

Oh man, thats so messed up

[killswitch83]

haha, he's Joe the Silicone Ripper, roflmao