Overcoming Stability Issues At 4.1 GHz
We took the Core i5-750 to 4.1 GHz using a 1.465V BIOS Vcore, but the system would not return from peak performance to idle without crashing. Further voltage modifications on the processor or platform side didn’t help. We were able to continue increasing clock speed after switching off C-states support in the BIOS.
Unfortunately, the system idle power went up by a massive 34W after performing this operation. While it allowed us to reach higher frequencies, this action also emphasizes how important it is to keep the processor in the lowest possible operation state when it's idle, meaning that transistors and entire functional units have to be switched off when they are not needed.
Final Speed: 4.3 GHz
A step up to 1.52V was required to reach 4.2 GHz reliably.
We reached 4.3 GHz on the Core i5-750 by applying 1.55V core voltage, but this setting wasn’t dependable. It was stable enough to run Fritz and take CPU-Z benchmarks, but we could not complete our entire benchmark suite. However, this setting isn’t something we recommend for everyday operation anyway, as power consumption has increased by 127W over standard settings. Let’s look at the performance levels you can reach through overclocking to as much as 4.2 GHz and how these changes affect efficiency.
Please have a look at our CPU-Z image gallery to look at all the speeds and settings.
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I think the AMD Athlon II x4 620 could give it a run for it's money, especially considering not only the price/performance ratio, but also the upgrade options. Even if you go Intel, the ATI cards are knocking out come great results at reasonable prices..what does Intel have to counter both ATI and nVidia?
I think this chip is a great little product, I just don't think Intel is sitting that pretty, and the motherboard upgrades (or lack of them), will catch them out. They did good with the BX chipsets in terms of stability and upgrades but those days are long gone..they replaced that solid product with the likes of Intel GMA
You'd buy an AMD CPU, because they make better GPUs than intel?
I'm still curious to see how far bclk can be pushed while keeping turbo made enabled...
In the chart on the second page, "Processor" is spelled wrong. :-)
You'd buy an AMD CPU, because they make better GPUs than intel?
Depends on the criteria..I base any decision on several factors: price, performance, usage and longevity - a systems design choice rather than one weighted entirely in favour of brand loyalty. Most of the clients won't spend the money, so their choice is restricted..but.an AMD 780G chipset with reasonably fast Athlon II x4, does practically everything they want, right from acting as a HTPC solution to a machine that can run 3D games. It's either that a more expensive Intel rig, sporting an nVidia chipset. Most clients simply request a CPU upgrade, they don't need DDR-3 and in most cases they don't even need a new power supply. The machine's down for 20 minutes whilst I update the BIOS and viola..new lease of life.
Both have been ahead - and behind - each other at one stage. I have always used most AMD at home and in my system builds, unless the client or the workplace/study environment dictates otherwise. I can't really fault either, it mostly comes down to my personal preference. Yes, I like AMD, but I now try to spend more learning the Windows-based software - I think it's more beneficial, taking into account the rate at which technology is changing and the performance both camps offer.
Not a bad review PS and AR ... not bad at all.
I have previously been a harsh critic of you both.
The point raised about max OC and still having the CPU internal power management switched on is worthy of following up with a few CPU's.
Saving a few trees and having a fast rig ... having the cake and eating it too ... is the go!!
We don't want D805's pushing 4Ghz and chewing 200Watts thanks.