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Complete Overclocking Guide: Sandy Bridge & Ivy Bridge | *ASRock Edition*

2M views 10K replies 991 participants last post by  assaultwrench 
#1 ·


Disclaimer
Please remember this is a guide, not a set of rules. Some settings may not work the same on every machine. I am not responsible for any damages that might occur from the abuse of this guide. I cannot answer all questions; please do not PM me. Post your question in the thread, so that others may help. If you notice something wrong with the guide, send me a PM please. As always, have fun and please remember not all CPUs can hit 5GHz! Not even mine.


Important Note
This guide was put together using an i5-2500k with an ASRock P67 Extreme 4. Some settings for you may be different or not exist at all in this guide.
Ivy Bridge performs about 5% (more or less) better than Sandy Bridge. So you may have a lower clock CPU and perform the same.
4.3GHz Ivy Bridge ≈ 4.5GHz Sandy Bridge.


Last Updated 5/4/13

Be an Olympian Overclocker and go for some overclocking medals!

It's really simple. Proceed overclocking as normal, except when you get to the Final Test. There will be medals awarded for new constraints.

Each medal will earn the bearer the title "Olympic Overclocker" and deem their overclock stable.

Gold
24 Hours of "The Final Test" at 4GHz (or more)
OR
3 Hours at 5GHz.


Silver
12 Hours of "The Final Test" at 4GHz (or more)
OR
3 Hours at 4.8GHz.


Bronze
6 Hours of "The Final Test" at 4GHz (or more)
OR
3 Hours at 4.7GHz.


The Overclocking Olympics
600

In order by submission date (earliest at top).

Gold Medalists
Mattb2e
Arkaridge
Xinoxide
Jaderaso
jay2nice000
spidey81
Subut
BrownEye02
wholeeo
chronicfx
lilchronic
gregt
ByeByeFive
richro
preston.murrell
-Nick


Silver Medalists
mat459
elito
stickg1
Livefreeordie89


Bronze Medalists
tyguy

Submissions are now closed (I'm not online enough anymore).
 
See less See more
5
#2 ·
Updating...
Always have the latest BIOS/UEFI!
A safe and easy way to update the BIOS is through windows.


Warning
**All current BIOS settings will be reset after the reboot. Be sure to write them down before upgrading, and change them back afterwards to avoid crashes.**


1. Choose your motherboard.
2. Go to "Download" on the top left.
3. Choose "BIOS Download".
4. Get the top most version, and of the 3 types, get Windows.¹
5. Extract and run the installer.²
6. Reboot.
7. Check the computer for the correct BIOS version.

Note¹ - If there isn't a Windows type, you'll need to follow the instructions in "How to Update".
Note² - ᴄʟᴏsᴇ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ ᴀʟʟ ᴀᴘᴘs ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ᴅᴏ ᴀɴʏᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴅᴜʀɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ғʟᴀsʜ!!!



To get into the BIOS, press the Delete key during POST or
spam1.gif
it after you press the power button.
To get into the boot choice screen, press or
spam1.gif
the F11 key.
Having all the latest drivers ensures that your PC runs as smooth and fast as possible!

1. Choose your motherboard.
2. Go to "Download" on the top left.
3. Choose "List All" for a complete list, or choose your Operating System for a finer list.

Station Drivers is back up with a new site restructure..
If you want / need more up-to-date (or even BETA) drivers, go to Station-Drivers.
This is a legit website. Many people use it, including me.
**Usually only the latest motherboard types have up-to-date drivers listed. So this website can be very useful for older motherboards.

For the required section, you should install in order from top to bottom for the best results.

Required

  • Intel® Chipset Device Software
    ~aka INF Update Utility.
    ~Backbone of the motherboard.
    ~You should make run this with command line options "-overall". This will force all the drivers to updated to the version you have regardless of what it deems "latest".
    ~You can make a shortcut and add them there or type them in after the program name in a console window.
    ~Latest version can be found here.
  • Intel® Rapid Storage Technology
    ~Backbone of storage (SATA for AHCI / RAID). Doesn't work for IDE.
    ~Latest version can be found here.
  • Intel® Management Engine Driver
    ~Allows access to BIOS/UEFI from remote locations, such as the OS.
    ~Latest version can be found here.
    ~Note: 5M version is for server boards. 1.5M version is for normal boards. You can see the version type in the download file name.
  • VGA Graphics
    ~this is for Intel HD integrated GPU in the CPU.
    ~Intel, themselves, recommend using drivers from motherboard manufacture (ASRock) because they can customize them to better suite the motherboard. So use the ASRock page.
  • Audio - usually Realtek; use ASRock page or Station-Drivers.
  • LAN (Ethernet / Wired Internet) - can be Realtek or Broadcom; again use ASRock page or Station-Drivers.
  • SATA 3.0 - can be Marvell or ASMedia; again use ASRock page or Station-Drivers.
  • USB 3.0 - usually Etron; use ASrock page or Station-Drivers.
Recommended
  • AXTU - can make small changes to the BIOS from within the OS. (I personally prefer the BIOS to this, though.)
  • AppCharger - charges external peripherals faster (no GUI).
  • Restart to UEFI - only for select boards, lightweight GUI to boot straight into BIOS / UEFI.
Situational
  • 3TB+ Unlocker - use if you have 3TB or more HDD.
  • VirtuMVP - used to switch between integrated and discrete GPU on the fly without removing hardware.
  • Intel Rapid Start - uses SSD to cache programs from a HDD. Use this if you have too small SSD for OS, otherwise useless.
Not Recommended
  • Intel Smart Connect - periodically wakes PC from sleep and updates programs.
  • Anything Else Under Utilities - more info can be found here.

Settings...
Note: Pictures are for reference only and do not reflect the settings that should be set.
Advanced Turbo 30/50/100: Disabled
~Lazy feature that attempts to overclock the CPU for you. It will do a sloppy job.

Load Optimized CPU OC Setting: Disabled
~Lazy feature that attempts to change BIOS settings to best suite overclocking CPU. Another sloppy job.

Load Optimized GPU OC Setting: Disabled
~Same as above but for IGPU. This is a no-no for any self respecting overclocker.

Save 1st/2nd/3rd User Default
~VERY useful feature used to save every BIOS setting to a profile, in case something gets changed unexpectedly.

Load 1st/2nd/3rd User Default
~Changes every BIOS setting to what is currently saved as the profile.

CPU Ratio: All Core
~For the purposes of this guide, we want to work with all cores at once in the CPU.
~You can experiment if you like on setting each core individually. Maybe it might help on those ugly Prime95 Core Errors.
thinking.gif


All Core: 33
~This setting will be changed later.
~Formerly known as Max Ratio.
~Main overclock setting that sets the CPU speed.
~Core Speed = Ratio x FSB (BCLK). So 33 x 100MHz = 3300MHz = 3.3GHz = 3.3 billion decisions a second.
~Total Speed = Core Speed x Core Count = 3.3GHz x 4 = 13.2GHz = 13.2 billion decisions a second.
~Hyper-Threading CPUs get around 10% more performance in gaming, and 20%-50% more performance in multimedia apps.


Host Clock Override (BCLK): 100.0 MHz
~BCLK stands for Base CLocK.
~Also known as Front Side Bus (FSB).
~Do NOT change this. leave it at 100, otherwise you risk damaging things.
~For advanced users: 95 to 105 is OK but should never be exceeded.


Spread Spectrum: Disabled
~If enabled CPU-Z will report 99.8 instead of 100.
~Spread Spectrum is used for labs to help reduce EMI. Read the Nerdy stuff here...


Intel SpeedStep Tech: Enabled
~Also known as Enhanced Intel Speedstep Technology (EIST).
~This feature lets the CPU use multipliers in between the idle and running multipliers.
~Normally the CPU would only be able to be either x16 idle or x33 running.
~With EIST, the CPU can now go from x16 to x20 to x25 to x33.
~Very useful if the CPU does not actually require 100% speed/voltage to do a task.


Intel Turbo Boost Tech: Enabled
~This lets us use Additional Turbo Voltage.

Additional Turbo Voltage: Auto
~This setting will be changed later.
~This is just like the Offset but works ONLY when the CPU is not in idle state.
~The Offset works ALL the time, even at idle. This setting will allow you to keep a low Offset, and low idle voltage, while still getting the Vcore boost needed for full speed.


Internal PLL Overvoltage: Disabled
~Leave this disabled unless you are going for a HUGE overclock. Known to cause several boot problems and sleep issues.
~This settings helps A LOT in getting a huge overclock (4.7GHz+) stable...
~However, it may cause your computer to NOT wake up after you Sleep it.

~This is not always true, so test it to be sure if it causes problems.

Core Current Limit: Max
Long Duration Power Limit: Max
Long Duration Maintained: Auto
Short Duration Power Limit: Max
Primary Plane Current Limit: Max
Secondary Plane Current Limit: Max

~To get "Max", type in 10000 and press Enter.
~These are simply power limits. They are only used to stop the CPU from using a certain amount of watts/amps.
~But since we are overclocking, we don't care for limits and should set them to max.
~It will not hurt the CPU at all (it won't suddenly use 1000 amps and blow up). Its not what it will use, just a limit of what it can use.
~This won't allow the CPU to user more than is should either. These are NOT safety limits.


GT OverClocking Support: Disabled
~Controls whether the IGPU (Internal GPU in the CPU) will be overclocked.

Power Saving Mode: Disabled
~If this option is not shown then don't worry about it.
~No power saving when trying to overclock.
~This is a proprietary feature from ASRock and simply lowers your Vcore by 0.1v to "save power".


CPU Core Voltage: Offset Mode
~Offset and Fixed are explained in the C States part of the next section.

Offset Voltage: +0.005v
~Also known as Vcore, and Vcc.
~Master Control that controls how much voltage your CPU gets.


CPU Load-Line Calibration: Level 2 or Level 3 (whichever one will get you closest to BIOS Vcore)
~When a CPU increases to max speed, the Vcore usually tends to drop down. This is known as Vdroop. If the Vcore drops down too much, it can lead to stability issues. To combat this, CPU LLC was made to offset this loss. Level 5 (0%) will net you the least compensation, Level 3 (50%) an average compensation, and Level 1 (100%) the most compensation. You want to find the setting that will get you the same Vcore that is says in BIOS, during load in Windows as reported by CPU-Z.
~Level 1 seems to spike your Vcore up really high during load, so I do not recommend using that.


IGPU Voltage Offset: Auto
~This option is only shown if your motherboard supports Intel's Internal-GPU (the GPU inside the CPU).
~I wouldn't mess with this setting. You should have a separate GPU card anyways.


IGPU Load-Line Calibration: Auto
~This option is only shown if your motherboard supports Intel's Internal-GPU (the GPU inside the CPU).
~Works the same as CPU LLC but for the IGPU. I wouldn't mess with this either.


DRAM Voltage: 1.5v (up to 1.65v)
~Memory Voltage: Leave this at 1.5v or 1.65v if you have certain memory chips that take 1.65v.
~I don't recommend trying to overclock memory. The performance gain will be unnoticeable and may make overclocking the CPU tougher.
~Do NOT go past 1.65v or you risk damaging chipsets and/or RAM.


VTT Voltage (VCCIO): Auto
~Also goes by the name IMC, QPI / DRAM, and QPI / VTT.
~Controls the voltage sent to the Integrated Memory Controller (IMC) inside the CPU and the PCI-E Controller on the motherboard.
~This rarely will ever affect an overclock. Change only if you get a BSOD related to this.


PCH Voltage: Auto
~Controls the voltage being sent into the Platform Controller Hub (PCH) on the motherboard.
~This should not affect an overclock. Do not mess with this setting.


CPU PLL Voltage (VCCPLL): Auto
~Too hard to explain what this does...
~Stands for Phase Lock Loop. This can can help with a big overclock. Leave it on Auto for now.


System Agent Voltage (VCCSA): Auto
~Controls the voltage sent to nearly everything on the motherboard not already mentioned.
~Do NOT ever change this.

Load XMP Setting: Auto
~Try not to use this. It attempts to auto load DRAM settings based on a pre-defined profile. But you are advanced enough to set this stuff manually (see below this).

DRAM Frequency: DDR3-xxxx
~Set to the speed your RAM is rated at; for me it's 1600.

DRAM tCL, tRCD, tRP, tRAS: x-x-x-xx
~These are written on your RAM chips in that order. For me it's 9, 9, 9, 24.

Command Rate (CR): 2N
~The delay between chip select and command, or the number of clock cycles needed to send data.
~Lower the better. 2N is most likely default.
~1N can be used but has a slight chance to produce instability and provides no real performance gain.


Everything else should be left unchanged or set to Auto.
~These settings don't make much of a difference in performance and can easily make the system unstable.

Intel Hyper Threading Technology: Enabled
~Setting for Hyperthreading for CPUs like i7-2600k / i7-3770k.
~If you have this setting Disabled, you pretty much wasted $100 as this is the one extra thing you get from i5-2500k / i5-3570k.
~Does disabling hyper-threading increase performance? No.


Active Processor Cores: All
~Controls what cores are enabled in your CPU. Don't change this setting.

C States are the main functions of a CPU. Below is an image describing each C State.
C1E does not affect any normal overclock. It can somtimes affect an extreme overclock like 6GHz. Don't change this setting.
The other C states can cause you to BSOD when idling when using Offset VCore mode. You shouldn't BSOD if you are using Fixed VCore mode.

Quote:
So heres your 2 options:
  1. Offset Mode: Your CPU will use VERY LITTLE voltage and speed when idling, ANYTIME you idle. (Even browsing can be considered idling.)
    • Enhanced Halt State (C1E): Enabled
    • CPU C3 State Support: Disabled
    • CPU C6 State Support: Disabled
    • Package C State Support: Disabled
  2. Fixed Mode: Your CPU will run full voltage and speed all the time, even when idling.
    • Enhanced Halt State (C1E): Enabled
    • CPU C3 State Support: Enabled
    • CPU C6 State Support: Enabled
    • Package C State Support: Auto
Which one is better?
Neither is "better". The first one will save you power and money, the second one will ensure you have 100% CPU power all the time. Some choose the 2nd option because they don't care about the electric bill and they like to have the best stability and power they can have. If, like me, you choose the 1st option, you will not be penalized.

Don't forget that each one can still use Sleep / Hibernate both of which will reduce the PC power usage to almost zero.

CPU Thermal Throttling: Enabled
~Do not ever disable this. It will shut your CPU off if it gets to hot and prevent damage.
~This will reduce voltage and speed regardless of Offset/Fixed modes, in an attempt to reduce temps.
~This setting DOES NOT control whether the CPU shuts off. That is built into the CPU itself and cannot be controlled.


No-Execute Memory Protection: Enabled
Intel Virtualization Technology: Enabled
Hardware Prefetcher: Enabled
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetcher: Enabled

~Intel stuff to add more functionality. Don't disable these settings.

Overclocking Limits
Voltage is very important when overclocking. Simply put, too much voltage produces a dead CPU. Too little voltage and the CPU won't turn on.

There are no fail safes for this. It's all up to you to control the voltage.


Intel Voltage Limits
(Sandy Bridge / Ivy Bridge)
1. 2nd Gen Intel Datasheet p. 82
2. 3rd Gen Intel Datasheet p. 86
TypeAKAMinMaxDescription
VᴄᴏʀᴇFixed, Offset, Turbo0.25v1.50vMy recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.
VᴄᴄɪᴏVTT, QPI, IMC1.02v1.08vMay rarely help an overclock.
VᴄᴄᴘʟʟCPU PLL1.71v1.89vLowering may help an overclock.
VᴅʀᴀᴍMemory RAM1.5v1.65vSpecified by manufacturer.
VᴄᴄsᴀSystem Agent0.879v0.971vLeave on auto.
VᴘᴄʜN/AN/AN/ANot much info on. Leave on auto.
VᴀxɢInternal GPU0.25v1.50vLeave on auto.
My recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.
Code:

Code:
[TABLE]  [TR] [TD]Intel Voltage Limits
(Sandy Bridge / Ivy Bridge)[/TH] [/TR] [TR] [TD]1. [URL=http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/processors/core/2nd-gen-core-desktop-vol-1-datasheet.html]2nd Gen Intel Datasheet[/URL] p. 82
2. [URL=http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/processors/core/2nd-gen-core-desktop-vol-1-datasheet.html]3rd Gen Intel Datasheet[/URL] p. 86[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Type[/TD] [TD]AKA[/TD] [TD]Min[/TD] [TD]Max[/TD] [TD]Description[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴏʀᴇ[/TD] [TD]Fixed, Offset, Turbo[/TD] [TD]0.25v[/TD] [TD]1.50v[/TD] [TD]My recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴄɪᴏ[/TD] [TD]VTT, QPI, IMC[/TD] [TD]1.02v[/TD] [TD]1.08v[/TD] [TD] May rarely help an overclock.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴄᴘʟʟ[/TD] [TD]CPU PLL[/TD] [TD]1.71v[/TD] [TD]1.89v[/TD] [TD]Lowering may help an overclock.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴅʀᴀᴍ[/TD] [TD]Memory RAM[/TD] [TD]1.5v[/TD] [TD]1.65v[/TD] [TD]Specified by manufacturer.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴄsᴀ[/TD] [TD]System Agent[/TD] [TD]0.879v[/TD] [TD]0.971v[/TD] [TD]Leave on auto.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴘᴄʜ[/TD] [TD]N/A[/TD] [TD]N/A[/TD] [TD]N/A[/TD] [TD]Not much info on. Leave on auto.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴀxɢ[/TD] [TD]Internal GPU[/TD] [TD]0.25v[/TD] [TD]1.50v[/TD] [TD]Leave on auto.
My recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE]
Temperature isn't nearly as important as voltages now a days. Why? Well, with current technology, fail safes are built directly into the CPU. If the CPU reaches its limits, it will shut off. This prevents any damage from occurring.

So why care about temperatures at all? Well the obvious answer. If the CPU hits the limit, it shuts off. You don't want to be scratching your head for hours trying to figure out why your overclock keeps shutting down the computer. Or worse, it shuts off when your playing games or doing important work.

The CPU also has a throttle limit. If the throttle limit is hit the CPU will reduce voltage and speed. Meaning, your BF3 fps goes from 60 to 10 during a game.

Enough reading all ready. What are the limits?


Intel Temperature Limits
TypeSandy BridgeIvy Bridge
Max98C105C
Throttle93C+98C+
Optimal85C-90C-
Min-50C--50C-
(+) = or above. (-) = or below.
Code:

Code:
[TABLE][TR][TD]Intel Temperature Limits[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Type[/TD][TD]Sandy Bridge[/TD][TD]Ivy Bridge[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Max[/TD][TD]98C[/TD][TD]105C[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Throttle[/TD][TD]93C+[/TD][TD]98C+[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Optimal[/TD][TD]85C-[/TD][TD]90C-[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Min[/TD][TD]-50C-[/TD][TD]-50C-[/TD][/TR][TR][TD](+) = or above. (-) = or below.[/TD][/TR][/TABLE]
Min: Yes, these are negative values.

Optimal: This is the max temperature you should see in a stress program like prime95. It is used to get a little distance from the max. If you go above it, don't freak out. This number is designed just for that. Stop the test immediately and lower the voltage.

"No way.. I'm going all out!!!" - If you had a car that exploded at 98mph... would you be driving 95mph down the highway. 85mph or below would be much more safer.

Overclocking...
Quote:
Overclocker's Survival Kit (x64)
This self-extracting .exe was made by me and is safe.
Move this folder around anywhere you want it.
Contains SSD Life Free, Crystal Disc Info, CPU-Z, GPU-Z, HWMonitor, RealTemp, and Prime95.
Up-to-date as of April 4, 2013.

Recommended for Windows 7/8 64-bit only.
Prime95 | Needed to stress test your overclock.
HWMonitor | Master list of voltages, temperatures, and RPMs being used in a PC.

Real Temp | Records system temperatures; alternative to HWMonitor.
CPU-Z | Records CPU voltage; displays TONS of system info; alternative to HWMonitor.
Either use Prime95 Blend mode or better use...

MY PREFERRED CUSTOM TEST
Match the settings to what is in the picture below and use these settings for every test in this guide.

"Number of torture test threads to run" should be automatically be set to 4 or 8 depending on what CPU you have.

"Memory to use in MB" should be set to 512 x # of GB of RAM installed. 4GB x 512 = 2048. 8GB x 512 = 4096.




Be sure to have these advanced options checked. They are not checked by default.

~Click "Cancel" on the Torture Test popup to unlock the menus.

Overclocking with minimum power.


Set the CPU multiplier to 50. (Unless you got a perfect chip, then the computer will not boot for a couple of these multipliers.)
Set the Offset to +0.005v. Set the Turbo Voltage to +0.004v.

(I do not recommend negative voltage: The offset affects idle voltages per multiplier, and Intel has already set the voltage for the idle multiplier. You don't want to drop below what Intel has already tested for you. A negative turbo voltage should not be available nor used. The reason we change voltage past for normal overclocking is because Intel only tests up to x33. Many chips can do more than that, but with what voltage is unknown.)

GOAL: Achieve the highest stable multiplier with minimum voltage.

TEST: Pass 10min of "The Prime Test".

PASS: Go to The Final Test.
FAIL: Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.
At this point you will only be concerned with CPU multiplier.

Set the CPU multiplier to 33.
Set the Offset to +0.005v. Set the Turbo Boost to +0.004v.

Goal: Achieve the highest stable multiplier with lowest positive Turbo Boost voltage.

TEST: Pass 5min of "The Prime Test".

PASS: Increase the CPU multiplier by 1.
FAIL: Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.

Repeat this until you achieve the GOAL. For a mild overclock precede to the Final Test, otherwise go to the next section.
Now we will be working with both CPU multiplier and Turbo Boost Voltage.

All settings should be set from the previous section.

Goal: Achieve the highest stable multiplier with Turbo Boost voltage increase.

TEST: Pass 5min of "The Prime Test".

PASS: Increase the CPU multiplier by 1.
FAIL: Increase the Turbo Boost by 1 spot.
FAIL (Max Vcore): Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.

Repeat this until you achieve the GOAL. For a nice easy overclock, precede to the Final Test, otherwise go to the next section.
Now that you got used to overclocking, we're going to be setting the standards a bit higher.

All settings should be set from the previous section.

Goal: Achieve the highest stable multiplier without going over max Vcore during the Test..

TEST: Pass "The Prime Test" for 20min. No crashes, fatal errors, or temps exceeding optimal can occur.

PASS: Increase the CPU multiplier by 1.
FAIL: Increase the Turbo Boost by 1 spot OR raise CPU PLL (max is 1.89v) OR lower CPU PLL (as low as 1.709v).
FAIL (Max Vcore): Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.

Repeat this until you achieve the GOAL. Precede to the Final Test.
This is it, this will let you know if you are stable enough for normal use.
-If you plan on using your CPU very intense all the time, such as Folding, then raise the time from 1 hour to 12+ hours.
-Gaming is considered normal use.

** Run "The Prime Test" for 1 hour without a crash, FATAL ERROR on any core/thread, AND temps never exceeding optimal. **

If you fail, then you can do a couple things:
1. Drop the CPU multiplier by 1.
2. Raise the Turbo Boost Voltage.
3. Raise CPU PLL voltage up to 1.89v., or lower it as low as 1.709v
Then repeat the test to try and pass.


From personal experience, if you pass this test, then you are good to go.

HELP ME!
Does the BSOD screen flash by too quick? Click here.
Quote:
Originally Posted by overclocker23578 View Post

BSOD Codes for LGA 1155 Sandy Bridge
0x124 = add/remove vcore or QPI/VTT voltage (usually Vcore, once it was QPI/VTT)
0x101 = add more vcore
0x50 = RAM timings/Frequency add DDR3 voltage or add QPI/VTT
0x1E = add more vcore
0x3B = add more vcore
0xD1 = add QPI/VTT voltage
0x9C = QPI/VTT most likely, but increasing vcore has helped in some instances
0X109 = add DDR3 voltage
0x0A = add QPI/VTT voltage
0x1A = Memory management error. It usually means a bad stick of Ram. Test with Memtest, try raising your Ram voltage, or south bridge ICH voltage.
0x19 = memory voltage
Quote:
Originally Posted by owikh84 View Post

BSOD Codes for LGA 1155 Ivy Bridge
0x101 = increase vcore
0x124 = increase/decrease vcore or QPI/VTT... have to test to see which one it is
0x0A = unstable RAM/IMC, increase QPI first, if that doesn't work increase vcore
0x1E = increase vcore
0x3B = increase vcore
0x3D = increase vcore
0xD1 = QPI/VTT, increase/decrease as necessary, can also be unstable Ram, raise Ram voltage
0x9C = QPI/VTT most likely, but increasing vcore has helped in some instances
0x50 = RAM timings/Frequency or uncore multi unstable, increase RAM voltage or adjust QPI/VTT, or lower uncore if you're higher than 2x
0x109 = Not enough or too Much memory voltage
0x116 = Low IOH (NB) voltage, GPU issue (most common when running multi-GPU/overclocking GPU)
0x7E = Corrupted OS file, possibly from overclocking. Run sfc /scannow and chkdsk /r

The End
If you're quoted in this guide, then thank you. If I used a picture you made, thank you.
More thanks goes out to the entire Overclock.net community.
thumb.gif


Other than that, I put this entire guide together by myself. So I thank myself!
smile.gif


Now enjoy that nice overclock and be proud your a member of Overclock.net!!!
If you're not a member. You need to become one. This guide is just one of the millions things that are useful on Overclock.net.

Also...
Woll Smoth approves of this guide.




So does Mott Romnoy...

 
#9,895 ·
Updating...
Always have the latest BIOS/UEFI!
A safe and easy way to update the BIOS is through windows.


Warning
**All current BIOS settings will be reset after the reboot. Be sure to write them down before upgrading, and change them back afterwards to avoid crashes.**


1. Choose your motherboard.
2. Go to "Download" on the top left.
3. Choose "BIOS Download".
4. Get the top most version, and of the 3 types, get Windows.¹
5. Extract and run the installer.²
6. Reboot.
7. Check the computer for the correct BIOS version.

Note¹ - If there isn't a Windows type, you'll need to follow the instructions in "How to Update".
Note² - ᴄʟᴏsᴇ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴏғ ᴀʟʟ ᴀᴘᴘs ᴀɴᴅ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ᴅᴏ ᴀɴʏᴛʜɪɴɢ ᴅᴜʀɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ғʟᴀsʜ!!!



To get into the BIOS, press the Delete key during POST or
spam1.gif
it after you press the power button.
To get into the boot choice screen, press or
spam1.gif
the F11 key.
Having all the latest drivers ensures that your PC runs as smooth and fast as possible!

1. Choose your motherboard.
2. Go to "Download" on the top left.
3. Choose "List All" for a complete list, or choose your Operating System for a finer list.

Station Drivers is back up with a new site restructure..
If you want / need more up-to-date (or even BETA) drivers, go to Station-Drivers.
This is a legit website. Many people use it, including me.
**Usually only the latest motherboard types have up-to-date drivers listed. So this website can be very useful for older motherboards.

For the required section, you should install in order from top to bottom for the best results.

Required

  • Intel® Chipset Device Software
    ~aka INF Update Utility.
    ~Backbone of the motherboard.
    ~You should make run this with command line options "-overall". This will force all the drivers to updated to the version you have regardless of what it deems "latest".
    ~You can make a shortcut and add them there or type them in after the program name in a console window.
    ~Latest version can be found here.
  • Intel® Rapid Storage Technology
    ~Backbone of storage (SATA for AHCI / RAID). Doesn't work for IDE.
    ~Latest version can be found here.
  • Intel® Management Engine Driver
    ~Allows access to BIOS/UEFI from remote locations, such as the OS.
    ~Latest version can be found here.
    ~Note: 5M version is for server boards. 1.5M version is for normal boards. You can see the version type in the download file name.
  • VGA Graphics
    ~this is for Intel HD integrated GPU in the CPU.
    ~Intel, themselves, recommend using drivers from motherboard manufacture (ASRock) because they can customize them to better suite the motherboard. So use the ASRock page.
  • Audio - usually Realtek; use ASRock page or Station-Drivers.
  • LAN (Ethernet / Wired Internet) - can be Realtek or Broadcom; again use ASRock page or Station-Drivers.
  • SATA 3.0 - can be Marvell or ASMedia; again use ASRock page or Station-Drivers.
  • USB 3.0 - usually Etron; use ASrock page or Station-Drivers.
Recommended
  • AXTU - can make small changes to the BIOS from within the OS. (I personally prefer the BIOS to this, though.)
  • AppCharger - charges external peripherals faster (no GUI).
  • Restart to UEFI - only for select boards, lightweight GUI to boot straight into BIOS / UEFI.
Situational
  • 3TB+ Unlocker - use if you have 3TB or more HDD.
  • VirtuMVP - used to switch between integrated and discrete GPU on the fly without removing hardware.
  • Intel Rapid Start - uses SSD to cache programs from a HDD. Use this if you have too small SSD for OS, otherwise useless.
Not Recommended
  • Intel Smart Connect - periodically wakes PC from sleep and updates programs.
  • Anything Else Under Utilities - more info can be found here.

Settings...
Note: Pictures are for reference only and do not reflect the settings that should be set.
Advanced Turbo 30/50/100: Disabled
~Lazy feature that attempts to overclock the CPU for you. It will do a sloppy job.

Load Optimized CPU OC Setting: Disabled
~Lazy feature that attempts to change BIOS settings to best suite overclocking CPU. Another sloppy job.

Load Optimized GPU OC Setting: Disabled
~Same as above but for IGPU. This is a no-no for any self respecting overclocker.

Save 1st/2nd/3rd User Default
~VERY useful feature used to save every BIOS setting to a profile, in case something gets changed unexpectedly.

Load 1st/2nd/3rd User Default
~Changes every BIOS setting to what is currently saved as the profile.

CPU Ratio: All Core
~For the purposes of this guide, we want to work with all cores at once in the CPU.
~You can experiment if you like on setting each core individually. Maybe it might help on those ugly Prime95 Core Errors.
thinking.gif


All Core: 33
~This setting will be changed later.
~Formerly known as Max Ratio.
~Main overclock setting that sets the CPU speed.
~Core Speed = Ratio x FSB (BCLK). So 33 x 100MHz = 3300MHz = 3.3GHz = 3.3 billion decisions a second.
~Total Speed = Core Speed x Core Count = 3.3GHz x 4 = 13.2GHz = 13.2 billion decisions a second.
~Hyper-Threading CPUs get around 10% more performance in gaming, and 20%-50% more performance in multimedia apps.


Host Clock Override (BCLK): 100.0 MHz
~BCLK stands for Base CLocK.
~Also known as Front Side Bus (FSB).
~Do NOT change this. leave it at 100, otherwise you risk damaging things.
~For advanced users: 95 to 105 is OK but should never be exceeded.


Spread Spectrum: Disabled
~If enabled CPU-Z will report 99.8 instead of 100.
~Spread Spectrum is used for labs to help reduce EMI. Read the Nerdy stuff here...


Intel SpeedStep Tech: Enabled
~Also known as Enhanced Intel Speedstep Technology (EIST).
~This feature lets the CPU use multipliers in between the idle and running multipliers.
~Normally the CPU would only be able to be either x16 idle or x33 running.
~With EIST, the CPU can now go from x16 to x20 to x25 to x33.
~Very useful if the CPU does not actually require 100% speed/voltage to do a task.


Intel Turbo Boost Tech: Enabled
~This lets us use Additional Turbo Voltage.

Additional Turbo Voltage: Auto
~This setting will be changed later.
~This is just like the Offset but works ONLY when the CPU is not in idle state.
~The Offset works ALL the time, even at idle. This setting will allow you to keep a low Offset, and low idle voltage, while still getting the Vcore boost needed for full speed.


Internal PLL Overvoltage: Disabled
~Leave this disabled unless you are going for a HUGE overclock. Known to cause several boot problems and sleep issues.
~This settings helps A LOT in getting a huge overclock (4.7GHz+) stable...
~However, it may cause your computer to NOT wake up after you Sleep it.

~This is not always true, so test it to be sure if it causes problems.

Core Current Limit: Max
Long Duration Power Limit: Max
Long Duration Maintained: Auto
Short Duration Power Limit: Max
Primary Plane Current Limit: Max
Secondary Plane Current Limit: Max

~To get "Max", type in 10000 and press Enter.
~These are simply power limits. They are only used to stop the CPU from using a certain amount of watts/amps.
~But since we are overclocking, we don't care for limits and should set them to max.
~It will not hurt the CPU at all (it won't suddenly use 1000 amps and blow up). Its not what it will use, just a limit of what it can use.
~This won't allow the CPU to user more than is should either. These are NOT safety limits.


GT OverClocking Support: Disabled
~Controls whether the IGPU (Internal GPU in the CPU) will be overclocked.

Power Saving Mode: Disabled
~If this option is not shown then don't worry about it.
~No power saving when trying to overclock.
~This is a proprietary feature from ASRock and simply lowers your Vcore by 0.1v to "save power".


CPU Core Voltage: Offset Mode
~Offset and Fixed are explained in the C States part of the next section.

Offset Voltage: +0.005v
~Also known as Vcore, and Vcc.
~Master Control that controls how much voltage your CPU gets.


CPU Load-Line Calibration: Level 2 or Level 3 (whichever one will get you closest to BIOS Vcore)
~When a CPU increases to max speed, the Vcore usually tends to drop down. This is known as Vdroop. If the Vcore drops down too much, it can lead to stability issues. To combat this, CPU LLC was made to offset this loss. Level 5 (0%) will net you the least compensation, Level 3 (50%) an average compensation, and Level 1 (100%) the most compensation. You want to find the setting that will get you the same Vcore that is says in BIOS, during load in Windows as reported by CPU-Z.
~Level 1 seems to spike your Vcore up really high during load, so I do not recommend using that.


IGPU Voltage Offset: Auto
~This option is only shown if your motherboard supports Intel's Internal-GPU (the GPU inside the CPU).
~I wouldn't mess with this setting. You should have a separate GPU card anyways.


IGPU Load-Line Calibration: Auto
~This option is only shown if your motherboard supports Intel's Internal-GPU (the GPU inside the CPU).
~Works the same as CPU LLC but for the IGPU. I wouldn't mess with this either.


DRAM Voltage: 1.5v (up to 1.65v)
~Memory Voltage: Leave this at 1.5v or 1.65v if you have certain memory chips that take 1.65v.
~I don't recommend trying to overclock memory. The performance gain will be unnoticeable and may make overclocking the CPU tougher.
~Do NOT go past 1.65v or you risk damaging chipsets and/or RAM.


VTT Voltage (VCCIO): Auto
~Also goes by the name IMC, QPI / DRAM, and QPI / VTT.
~Controls the voltage sent to the Integrated Memory Controller (IMC) inside the CPU and the PCI-E Controller on the motherboard.
~This rarely will ever affect an overclock. Change only if you get a BSOD related to this.


PCH Voltage: Auto
~Controls the voltage being sent into the Platform Controller Hub (PCH) on the motherboard.
~This should not affect an overclock. Do not mess with this setting.


CPU PLL Voltage (VCCPLL): Auto
~Too hard to explain what this does...
~Stands for Phase Lock Loop. This can can help with a big overclock. Leave it on Auto for now.


System Agent Voltage (VCCSA): Auto
~Controls the voltage sent to nearly everything on the motherboard not already mentioned.
~Do NOT ever change this.

Load XMP Setting: Auto
~Try not to use this. It attempts to auto load DRAM settings based on a pre-defined profile. But you are advanced enough to set this stuff manually (see below this).

DRAM Frequency: DDR3-xxxx
~Set to the speed your RAM is rated at; for me it's 1600.

DRAM tCL, tRCD, tRP, tRAS: x-x-x-xx
~These are written on your RAM chips in that order. For me it's 9, 9, 9, 24.

Command Rate (CR): 2N
~The delay between chip select and command, or the number of clock cycles needed to send data.
~Lower the better. 2N is most likely default.
~1N can be used but has a slight chance to produce instability and provides no real performance gain.


Everything else should be left unchanged or set to Auto.
~These settings don't make much of a difference in performance and can easily make the system unstable.

Intel Hyper Threading Technology: Enabled
~Setting for Hyperthreading for CPUs like i7-2600k / i7-3770k.
~If you have this setting Disabled, you pretty much wasted $100 as this is the one extra thing you get from i5-2500k / i5-3570k.
~Does disabling hyper-threading increase performance? No.


Active Processor Cores: All
~Controls what cores are enabled in your CPU. Don't change this setting.

C States are the main functions of a CPU. Below is an image describing each C State.
C1E does not affect any normal overclock. It can somtimes affect an extreme overclock like 6GHz. Don't change this setting.
The other C states can cause you to BSOD when idling when using Offset VCore mode. You shouldn't BSOD if you are using Fixed VCore mode.

Quote:
So heres your 2 options:
  1. Offset Mode: Your CPU will use VERY LITTLE voltage and speed when idling, ANYTIME you idle. (Even browsing can be considered idling.)
    • Enhanced Halt State (C1E): Enabled
    • CPU C3 State Support: Disabled
    • CPU C6 State Support: Disabled
    • Package C State Support: Disabled
  2. Fixed Mode: Your CPU will run full voltage and speed all the time, even when idling.
    • Enhanced Halt State (C1E): Enabled
    • CPU C3 State Support: Enabled
    • CPU C6 State Support: Enabled
    • Package C State Support: Auto
Which one is better?
Neither is "better". The first one will save you power and money, the second one will ensure you have 100% CPU power all the time. Some choose the 2nd option because they don't care about the electric bill and they like to have the best stability and power they can have. If, like me, you choose the 1st option, you will not be penalized.

Don't forget that each one can still use Sleep / Hibernate both of which will reduce the PC power usage to almost zero.

CPU Thermal Throttling: Enabled
~Do not ever disable this. It will shut your CPU off if it gets to hot and prevent damage.
~This will reduce voltage and speed regardless of Offset/Fixed modes, in an attempt to reduce temps.
~This setting DOES NOT control whether the CPU shuts off. That is built into the CPU itself and cannot be controlled.


No-Execute Memory Protection: Enabled
Intel Virtualization Technology: Enabled
Hardware Prefetcher: Enabled
Adjacent Cache Line Prefetcher: Enabled

~Intel stuff to add more functionality. Don't disable these settings.

Overclocking Limits
Voltage is very important when overclocking. Simply put, too much voltage produces a dead CPU. Too little voltage and the CPU won't turn on.

There are no fail safes for this. It's all up to you to control the voltage.


Intel Voltage Limits
(Sandy Bridge / Ivy Bridge)
1. 2nd Gen Intel Datasheet p. 82
2. 3rd Gen Intel Datasheet p. 86
TypeAKAMinMaxDescription
VᴄᴏʀᴇFixed, Offset, Turbo0.25v1.50vMy recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.
VᴄᴄɪᴏVTT, QPI, IMC1.02v1.08vMay rarely help an overclock.
VᴄᴄᴘʟʟCPU PLL1.71v1.89vLowering may help an overclock.
VᴅʀᴀᴍMemory RAM1.5v1.65vSpecified by manufacturer.
VᴄᴄsᴀSystem Agent0.879v0.971vLeave on auto.
VᴘᴄʜN/AN/AN/ANot much info on. Leave on auto.
VᴀxɢInternal GPU0.25v1.50vLeave on auto.
My recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.
Code:

Code:
[TABLE]  [TR] [TD]Intel Voltage Limits
(Sandy Bridge / Ivy Bridge)[/TH] [/TR] [TR] [TD]1. [URL=http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/processors/core/2nd-gen-core-desktop-vol-1-datasheet.html]2nd Gen Intel Datasheet[/URL] p. 82
2. [URL=http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/processors/core/2nd-gen-core-desktop-vol-1-datasheet.html]3rd Gen Intel Datasheet[/URL] p. 86[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Type[/TD] [TD]AKA[/TD] [TD]Min[/TD] [TD]Max[/TD] [TD]Description[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴏʀᴇ[/TD] [TD]Fixed, Offset, Turbo[/TD] [TD]0.25v[/TD] [TD]1.50v[/TD] [TD]My recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴄɪᴏ[/TD] [TD]VTT, QPI, IMC[/TD] [TD]1.02v[/TD] [TD]1.08v[/TD] [TD] May rarely help an overclock.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴄᴘʟʟ[/TD] [TD]CPU PLL[/TD] [TD]1.71v[/TD] [TD]1.89v[/TD] [TD]Lowering may help an overclock.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴅʀᴀᴍ[/TD] [TD]Memory RAM[/TD] [TD]1.5v[/TD] [TD]1.65v[/TD] [TD]Specified by manufacturer.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴄᴄsᴀ[/TD] [TD]System Agent[/TD] [TD]0.879v[/TD] [TD]0.971v[/TD] [TD]Leave on auto.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴘᴄʜ[/TD] [TD]N/A[/TD] [TD]N/A[/TD] [TD]N/A[/TD] [TD]Not much info on. Leave on auto.[/TD] [/TR] [TR] [TD]Vᴀxɢ[/TD] [TD]Internal GPU[/TD] [TD]0.25v[/TD] [TD]1.50v[/TD] [TD]Leave on auto.
My recommended values. Not stated officially by Intel.[/TD] [/TR] [/TABLE]
Temperature isn't nearly as important as voltages now a days. Why? Well, with current technology, fail safes are built directly into the CPU. If the CPU reaches its limits, it will shut off. This prevents any damage from occurring.

So why care about temperatures at all? Well the obvious answer. If the CPU hits the limit, it shuts off. You don't want to be scratching your head for hours trying to figure out why your overclock keeps shutting down the computer. Or worse, it shuts off when your playing games or doing important work.

The CPU also has a throttle limit. If the throttle limit is hit the CPU will reduce voltage and speed. Meaning, your BF3 fps goes from 60 to 10 during a game.

Enough reading all ready. What are the limits?


Intel Temperature Limits
TypeSandy BridgeIvy Bridge
Max98C105C
Throttle93C+98C+
Optimal85C-90C-
Min-50C--50C-
(+) = or above. (-) = or below.
Code:

Code:
[TABLE][TR][TD]Intel Temperature Limits[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Type[/TD][TD]Sandy Bridge[/TD][TD]Ivy Bridge[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Max[/TD][TD]98C[/TD][TD]105C[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Throttle[/TD][TD]93C+[/TD][TD]98C+[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Optimal[/TD][TD]85C-[/TD][TD]90C-[/TD][/TR][TR][TD]Min[/TD][TD]-50C-[/TD][TD]-50C-[/TD][/TR][TR][TD](+) = or above. (-) = or below.[/TD][/TR][/TABLE]
Min: Yes, these are negative values.

Optimal: This is the max temperature you should see in a stress program like prime95. It is used to get a little distance from the max. If you go above it, don't freak out. This number is designed just for that. Stop the test immediately and lower the voltage.

"No way.. I'm going all out!!!" - If you had a car that exploded at 98mph... would you be driving 95mph down the highway. 85mph or below would be much more safer.

Overclocking...
Quote:
Overclocker's Survival Kit (x64)
This self-extracting .exe was made by me and is safe.
Move this folder around anywhere you want it.
Contains SSD Life Free, Crystal Disc Info, CPU-Z, GPU-Z, HWMonitor, RealTemp, and Prime95.
Up-to-date as of April 4, 2013.

Recommended for Windows 7/8 64-bit only.
Prime95 | Needed to stress test your overclock.
HWMonitor | Master list of voltages, temperatures, and RPMs being used in a PC.

Real Temp | Records system temperatures; alternative to HWMonitor.
CPU-Z | Records CPU voltage; displays TONS of system info; alternative to HWMonitor.
Either use Prime95 Blend mode or better use...

MY PREFERRED CUSTOM TEST
Match the settings to what is in the picture below and use these settings for every test in this guide.

"Number of torture test threads to run" should be automatically be set to 4 or 8 depending on what CPU you have.

"Memory to use in MB" should be set to 512 x # of GB of RAM installed. 4GB x 512 = 2048. 8GB x 512 = 4096.




Be sure to have these advanced options checked. They are not checked by default.

~Click "Cancel" on the Torture Test popup to unlock the menus.

Overclocking with minimum power.


Set the CPU multiplier to 50. (Unless you got a perfect chip, then the computer will not boot for a couple of these multipliers.)
Set the Offset to +0.005v. Set the Turbo Voltage to +0.004v.

(I do not recommend negative voltage: The offset affects idle voltages per multiplier, and Intel has already set the voltage for the idle multiplier. You don't want to drop below what Intel has already tested for you. A negative turbo voltage should not be available nor used. The reason we change voltage past for normal overclocking is because Intel only tests up to x33. Many chips can do more than that, but with what voltage is unknown.)

GOAL: Achieve the highest stable multiplier with minimum voltage.

TEST: Pass 10min of "The Prime Test".

PASS: Go to The Final Test.
FAIL: Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.
At this point you will only be concerned with CPU multiplier.

Set the CPU multiplier to 33.
Set the Offset to +0.005v. Set the Turbo Boost to +0.004v.

Goal: Achieve the highest stable multiplier with lowest positive Turbo Boost voltage.

TEST: Pass 5min of "The Prime Test".

PASS: Increase the CPU multiplier by 1.
FAIL: Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.

Repeat this until you achieve the GOAL. For a mild overclock precede to the Final Test, otherwise go to the next section.
Now we will be working with both CPU multiplier and Turbo Boost Voltage.

All settings should be set from the previous section.

Goal: Achieve the highest stable multiplier with Turbo Boost voltage increase.

TEST: Pass 5min of "The Prime Test".

PASS: Increase the CPU multiplier by 1.
FAIL: Increase the Turbo Boost by 1 spot.
FAIL (Max Vcore): Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.

Repeat this until you achieve the GOAL. For a nice easy overclock, precede to the Final Test, otherwise go to the next section.
Now that you got used to overclocking, we're going to be setting the standards a bit higher.

All settings should be set from the previous section.

Goal: Achieve the highest stable multiplier without going over max Vcore during the Test..

TEST: Pass "The Prime Test" for 20min. No crashes, fatal errors, or temps exceeding optimal can occur.

PASS: Increase the CPU multiplier by 1.
FAIL: Increase the Turbo Boost by 1 spot OR raise CPU PLL (max is 1.89v) OR lower CPU PLL (as low as 1.709v).
FAIL (Max Vcore): Decrease the CPU multiplier by 1.

Repeat this until you achieve the GOAL. Precede to the Final Test.
This is it, this will let you know if you are stable enough for normal use.
-If you plan on using your CPU very intense all the time, such as Folding, then raise the time from 1 hour to 12+ hours.
-Gaming is considered normal use.

** Run "The Prime Test" for 1 hour without a crash, FATAL ERROR on any core/thread, AND temps never exceeding optimal. **

If you fail, then you can do a couple things:
1. Drop the CPU multiplier by 1.
2. Raise the Turbo Boost Voltage.
3. Raise CPU PLL voltage up to 1.89v., or lower it as low as 1.709v
Then repeat the test to try and pass.


From personal experience, if you pass this test, then you are good to go.

HELP ME!
Does the BSOD screen flash by too quick? Click here.
Quote:
Originally Posted by overclocker23578 View Post

BSOD Codes for LGA 1155 Sandy Bridge
0x124 = add/remove vcore or QPI/VTT voltage (usually Vcore, once it was QPI/VTT)
0x101 = add more vcore
0x50 = RAM timings/Frequency add DDR3 voltage or add QPI/VTT
0x1E = add more vcore
0x3B = add more vcore
0xD1 = add QPI/VTT voltage
0x9C = QPI/VTT most likely, but increasing vcore has helped in some instances
0X109 = add DDR3 voltage
0x0A = add QPI/VTT voltage
0x1A = Memory management error. It usually means a bad stick of Ram. Test with Memtest, try raising your Ram voltage, or south bridge ICH voltage.
0x19 = memory voltage
Quote:
Originally Posted by owikh84 View Post

BSOD Codes for LGA 1155 Ivy Bridge
0x101 = increase vcore
0x124 = increase/decrease vcore or QPI/VTT... have to test to see which one it is
0x0A = unstable RAM/IMC, increase QPI first, if that doesn't work increase vcore
0x1E = increase vcore
0x3B = increase vcore
0x3D = increase vcore
0xD1 = QPI/VTT, increase/decrease as necessary, can also be unstable Ram, raise Ram voltage
0x9C = QPI/VTT most likely, but increasing vcore has helped in some instances
0x50 = RAM timings/Frequency or uncore multi unstable, increase RAM voltage or adjust QPI/VTT, or lower uncore if you're higher than 2x
0x109 = Not enough or too Much memory voltage
0x116 = Low IOH (NB) voltage, GPU issue (most common when running multi-GPU/overclocking GPU)
0x7E = Corrupted OS file, possibly from overclocking. Run sfc /scannow and chkdsk /r

The End
If you're quoted in this guide, then thank you. If I used a picture you made, thank you.
More thanks goes out to the entire Overclock.net community.
thumb.gif


Other than that, I put this entire guide together by myself. So I thank myself!
smile.gif


Now enjoy that nice overclock and be proud your a member of Overclock.net!!!
If you're not a member. You need to become one. This guide is just one of the millions things that are useful on Overclock.net.

Also...
Woll Smoth approves of this guide.




So does Mott Romnoy...

Hi. I already know that this post has several years. But now I finally have an i7-3770k and asrock z77 extreme4. I'm clicking on all the links and it always stays on the first page. I have registered but it remains the same. Is the guide closed? Thanks and sorry for the google translator. a greeting
 
#5 ·
Nice guide. Rep +

Dunno whether its my board or my chip but I can't do better than 4.3GHz. Hopefully it's not the board because I'd like to upgrade to IB with it.
 
#6 ·
Thanks for the guide! I'm gonna push my rig to it's limits when I find time, just to see what they are. Will probably settle down to 4.0 by Summer, though.
 
#8 ·
Updated some more stuff, added a new section.
  • Discovered that Internal PLL Overvoltage will cause Sleep problems.
  • Discovered that C States can cause a BSOD with offset mode.
 
#10 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gerick View Post

My pro3 gen3 asrock motherboard doesn't seem to have cpu load line calibration or a fixed mode, it just has an offset mode.
is there some kind of key combo I have to hold to unlock or show advanced options, or is the pro3 gen3 just without it?
Not possible. Even my Z68 Pro3 (previous generation to yours) has it. Did you scroll all the way down under Voltage Control in the OC Tweaker menu?
 
#13 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gerick View Post

The manual for the Z68 pro3 gen3 also lacks any mention of fixed mode, or a load line calibration option.
That's pretty weak. I'm not in front of my own comp. at the moment but I'll check for you in the morning if someone else hasn't chimed in on this by then.
thumb.gif


EDIT: Weird, I found this on some other person's Pro3 Gen3:
450
They have everything and for some reason, you don't. Did you update the BIOS?
 
#14 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gerick View Post

My pro3 gen3 asrock motherboard doesn't seem to have cpu load line calibration or a fixed mode, it just has an offset mode.

is there some kind of key combo I have to hold to unlock or show advanced options, or is the pro3 gen3 just without it?
If you have already updated your BIOS to version v1.2 here, then what you see is what you get.

Use offset mode like it says in my guide and try to get the best without the PLL Overvoltage and LLC. It will be tough but doable.
 
#15 ·
Editted the last two to tidy up.

Yes, I updated to 1.2 and the screenshot posted is dated before the 1.2 bios update was available, nearest I can figure is that they intentionally or accidentally removed those options in the update. I tried windows and instant flash bios update options just to rule out there being any oddness there.

For now, I've emailed ASrock about it, but their tech support is down until next month due to their newyear celebrations. My 4ghz overclock seems stable, the hottest I saw it get was 64c, and an average of 55c.
 
#16 ·
I need some tips/help with my OC. I was able to get it to 4.8GHz.... did 15 hours of Prime95. So I thought that it was pretty stable... BUT! i have an issue with the PC double starting after it's been off for a while. I will turn it on and 2 secs later, it will shutdown and start back up again. It will almost always end up at the blinking cursor and it won't boot up.

So I then cut the power and restart it again and it's fine. It happens every single time after it's been off for a while. If I restart it from windows or shutdown and start right after, it's fine. Anyone experience this?

I've tried offset and fixed voltage, setting different VTT and PLL voltages and nothing. I suspected my Ram, but have been able to do 5 runs of Memtest without any errors.

Any ideas?
 
#17 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by Derko1 View Post

I need some tips/help with my OC. I was able to get it to 4.8GHz.... did 15 hours of Prime95. So I thought that it was pretty stable... BUT! i have an issue with the PC double starting after it's been off for a while. I will turn it on and 2 secs later, it will shutdown and start back up again. It will almost always end up at the blinking cursor and it won't boot up.

So I then cut the power and restart it again and it's fine. It happens every single time after it's been off for a while. If I restart it from windows or shutdown and start right after, it's fine. Anyone experience this?

I've tried offset and fixed voltage, setting different VTT and PLL voltages and nothing. I suspected my Ram, but have been able to do 5 runs of Memtest without any errors.

Any ideas?
I'm sorry you wasted so much time testing things before you came here.
frown.gif


This issue is common among ASRock motherboards. Mine does it too sometimes. I'm not sure why it does it, but I know the motherboard is the culprit and that it is a common harmless issue.

Go back and put your settings the way you had them originally.

My suggestion would be to just change everything to Sleep mode that way your computer will turn off everything except the RAM (<1W of power usage) and save your OS to your RAM, and when you hit a key on your keyboard it will magically turn on instantly as if it never shut off. This should prevent you from experiencing the startup issue, and since you don't even have a internal PLL overvoltage option, you won't experience any Sleep issues either.
 
#18 ·
Well that both sucks and gives me relief that it's not something that is dying.

Now ANOTHER issue that I am having... is that several games will crash either when loading at the begining... loading in between levels... or when exiting. The worst is NFS The Run... which will crash and then I can kill it through the task manager, but will BSOD right after I kill it. It's usually that the driver has stopped working... with a 126 BSOD.

Any ideas on what could be causing this?
 
#20 ·
Hey all,

Just recently purchased my new rig. Loving it so far and having fun OCing it. Upgraded from a cheapy MSI board and Phenom II X3 720BE to this 2500k. Having trouble getting stable at 4.7GHz and want to push higher for fun but would like to leave it around 4.6-4.7 for daily use. After 15 mins prime 95 blend worker 4 gets an error. Help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

i5-2500k
Corsair H60 (stock fan for now, getting push-pull Gentle Typhoons in a week)
ASRock z68 Extreme3 Gen3

Ambient Temps - 23C
Idle around - 27C
Under load - Max 61C

BIOS settings are below:

BCLK - 100 X 47 Multiplier

Short Duration Limit - 250
Long Duration Limit - 250
Core Current Limit - 250

Vcore - 1.35 in cpu-z
LLC - Level 2
Voltage offset + .090v
Internal PLL - Disabled (possibly need to enable for higher OC's but would like confirmation)

Speedstep - Enabled
Spread Spectrum - Auto

Dram - 1.529v 1600mhz XMP

PCH Voltage - 1.059v
PLL Voltage - 1.832v (I've read that's set pretty high and might want to reduce it)
VTT - 1.047v
VCSSA - 0.925v
 
#21 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by sherman9800 View Post

Hey all,

Just recently purchased my new rig. Loving it so far and having fun OCing it. Upgraded from a cheapy MSI board and Phenom II X3 720BE to this 2500k. Having trouble getting stable at 4.7GHz and want to push higher for fun but would like to leave it around 4.6-4.7 for daily use. After 15 mins prime 95 blend worker 4 gets an error. Help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Ambient Temps - 23C
Idle around - 27C
Under load - Max 61C <-- REALLY GOOD temps!
thumb.gif
Max under load should be 85C. It will rise alot with vcore but will be perfectly fine. The chip won't even shut down till a whopping 98C.


BIOS settings are below:

BCLK - 100 X 47 Multiplier

Vcore - 1.35 in cpu-z Wowsers... thats really low imho. 1.5v is the max for me, and almost all agree that 1.45v is the low max. So I would at least got to 1.4-1.45v and try to get stable at 4800MHz.
LLC - Level 2
Voltage offset + .090v
Internal PLL - Disabled (possibly need to enable for higher OC's but would like confirmation) Enabling will help a TON, but It may cause Sleep problems (or it may not, different across boards). Try going to your max vcore before enabling this if you want.

Spread Spectrum - Auto Disable this.

Dram - 1.529v 1600mhz XMP

PCH Voltage - 1.059v Leave auto.
PLL Voltage - 1.832v (I've read that's set pretty high and might want to reduce it) 1.89v is the limit, however raising it rarely affects overclocking.
VTT - 1.047v Leave auto.
VCSSA - 0.925v Leave auto.
Gave you some tips, which almost all are in my guide.
tongue.gif
rolleyes.gif
(My comments are in bold or italicized.)
Quote:
Originally Posted by Derko1 View Post

Well that both sucks and gives me relief that it's not something that is dying.

Now ANOTHER issue that I am having... is that several games will crash either when loading at the begining... loading in between levels... or when exiting. The worst is NFS The Run... which will crash and then I can kill it through the task manager, but will BSOD right after I kill it. It's usually that the driver has stopped working... with a 126 BSOD.

Any ideas on what could be causing this?
That BSOD isn't on the list of related ones to Overclocking the CPU, so I would suspect that your GPU drivers are doing it. I would get the latest drivers from AMD/ATI for your graphics card and make sure that you pass the final test on my guide. Also when you install the drivers, make sure you do a clean install, or use driver sweeper to wipe the old drivers out.

Quote:
Originally Posted by griffulas View Post

Nice guide, helped me get stable at 5ghz + rep had been using manual control of vcore, and L1, L2 is working better for me
biggrin.gif

http://www.overclock.net/image/id/1676791/width/600/height/374
5hrs on prime95 blend, still trucking going for 12
Lucky!!!
wubsmiley.gif


I tried so hard to get 5GHz but my chip won't go more than a min in prime95 at 5GHz even with a 1.52v. But I've learned to let it go...4.9GHz is blazingly fast.
devil-smiley-019.gif
 
#22 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by kennyparker1337 View Post

Gave you some tips, which almost all are in my guide.
tongue.gif
rolleyes.gif
(My comments are in bold or italicized.)
That BSOD isn't on the list of related ones to Overclocking the CPU, so I would suspect that your GPU drivers are doing it. I would get the latest drivers from AMD/ATI for your graphics card and make sure that you pass the final test on my guide. Also when you install the drivers, make sure you do a clean install, or use driver sweeper to wipe the old drivers out.
Lucky!!!
wubsmiley.gif

I tried so hard to get 5GHz but my chip won't go more than a min in prime95 at 5GHz even with a 1.52v. But I've learned to let it go...4.9GHz is blazingly fast.
devil-smiley-019.gif
another place i deviate from your guide, i found the sweet spot for my chip to be 1.709 for pll so if you bsod is x0124 try this change i bet it will work

edit: http://www.overclock.net/t/940091/bsod-codes-when-ocing-must-have-info great resource, list of common error codes and causes, if your getting x0124 try lowering pll ive read some 1155 chips like the lower voltage at higher multis

update374
12hrs of custom blend if you look my pll voltage is 1.709
 
#23 ·
Have currently tried 4.8 on 1.40 fixed vcore with Internal PLL enabled, no dice. Wont even post with these settings, but can get 4.7 running prime 95 blend for a bit with 1.35vcore...

Spread spectrum disabled.
LLC Level - 2

My power supply is the less current Corsair TX550 (non modular). I dont have a crazy setup with the HD6870 not being overclocked with a single 10k Raptor drive and a 500GB HDD and 4 fans plus the H60. Could my power supply being running out of juice trying to get those speeds? Its never shown to have been bad before but I save the BIOS settings and it just continually restarts itself with either no power the peripherals or shuts down right away. I have to clear CMOS and start over again. I've looked at the draw on Real Temp and its hovering around 95w which isnt much. VID is 1.3861.
 
#24 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by kennyparker1337 View Post

That BSOD isn't on the list of related ones to Overclocking the CPU, so I would suspect that your GPU drivers are doing it. I would get the latest drivers from AMD/ATI for your graphics card and make sure that you pass the final test on my guide. Also when you install the drivers, make sure you do a clean install, or use driver sweeper to wipe the old drivers out.
Cool. I think I'll stop playing with the OC settings then... that's really the only two issues I am having with it and seem like they are unrelated to the OC.

I have tried the other drivers too... but still have the same issue. It might just be a problem with the games them selves too. Cause Skyrim runs flawlessly. Above 60fps everywhere and no crashes at all.

Thanks for the help!
thumb.gif


I'll probably be back when I get my water set up to try to hit 5.0.
 
#25 ·
Quote:
Originally Posted by sherman9800 View Post

Have currently tried 4.8 on 1.40 fixed vcore with Internal PLL enabled, no dice. Wont even post with these settings, but can get 4.7 running prime 95 blend for a bit with 1.35vcore...

Spread spectrum disabled.
LLC Level - 2

My power supply is the less current Corsair TX550 (non modular). I dont have a crazy setup with the HD6870 not being overclocked with a single 10k Raptor drive and a 500GB HDD and 4 fans plus the H60. Could my power supply being running out of juice trying to get those speeds? Its never shown to have been bad before but I save the BIOS settings and it just continually restarts itself with either no power the peripherals or shuts down right away. I have to clear CMOS and start over again. I've looked at the draw on Real Temp and its hovering around 95w which isnt much. VID is 1.3861.
http://extreme.outervision.com/PSUEngine

System Type: 1 physical CPU
Motherboard: Regular - Desktop
CPU Socket: Socket LGA 1155
CPU: Intel Core i5-2500K 3300 MHz Sandy Bridge
Overclocked: 4800 MHz, 1.4 V
CPU Utilization (TDP): 90% TDP

RAM: 4 Sticks DDR3 SDRAM
Video Card 1: AMD Radeon HD 6870

Regular SATA: 1 HDD
High rpm SATA: 1 HDD

DVD/CDRW Combo Drive: 1 Drive

USB: 4 Devices

Fans
Regular: 4 Fans 120mm;
Water Cooling Kit: Corsair Hydro H60

Keyboard and mouse: Yes

System Load: 90 %

Capacitor Aging (+ W %): 20 %

Minimum PSU Wattage: 486 Watts
Recommended Wattage: 536 Watts
 
#26 ·
Thanks for that. I might look into getting a new power supply. Possibly a silver or gold 750w for Crossfire later as well.

Also, I took griffulas' advice and changed the PLL lower to 1.75 and it was much much better. No restarts, boots first try and just needed more voltage to get up to 5.0 Ghz. Worker 4 is always the culprit on prime and I just clocked it back down to 4.6 as that was the last rock solid stable with much lower voltage. Way better temps but once I get a new PSU and push pull typhoons I will give it a try again for a better stable OC.
 
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