Processor program speed adjustment. Programs for overclocking Intel processor

Every user, one way or another, has come across the concept of processor overclocking. Quite a lot of words have already been said about this. This was especially true for the period when computer hardware manufacturers themselves began to adapt to the first full-fledged operating systems, starting with Windows’95 (Windows 3.x does not count). That’s when the idea of ​​overclocking processors began to emerge, from which it was possible to “squeeze” much more than their nominal characteristics implied.

Overclocking

The very concept of overclocking implies not only overclocking the central processor, but also accelerating the entire system by increasing the performance of one or another “hardware” component. Please note that this applies not only to the central processor, but also, say, to the processor installed on the graphics accelerator.

Here, an important role is played by how the entire system will react to all this. It is absolutely impossible to say that after overclocking the same processor everything will not go to hell, as they say. Here you need to take into account all the fundamental characteristics and performance reserves that the manufacturer himself has included in his own device, present inside a stationary computer terminal, laptop, netbook, ultrabook, etc.

Another important condition is that today physical overclocking methods are not used by the most knowledgeable and far-sighted people. Advanced users use, say, overclocking an Intel processor through a program, which is ultimately the simplest and safest solution.

A little history

If you delve a little into history, you will notice that previously the procedure for overclocking processors was associated purely with physical methods of influence. It was necessary to change jumpers, remove processors from the motherboard, resolder contacts, change bridges, apply increased voltage, etc. and so on.

All this boiled down to the fact that with the wrong approach, all computer hardware was rendered unusable even when the computer was turned on normally (short circuit due to improper soldering, incorrect installation of the processor or jumper in the connectors, etc.).

Now this problem has disappeared by itself. Few manufacturers of the same processor systems leave a wide field for overclockers to operate. But software developers have gone much further. They did it in the simplest way: if it is impossible to increase the system performance physically, you can overclock the processor using programs.

And this turned out to be an even more effective method than overclocking in terms of physical intervention and reinstallation of some components on the motherboard.

Where to begin?

First, you need to understand that processors, like any other devices, have, so to speak, a margin of safety. The main and final result is considered to be an increase in the clock frequency at which the processor is capable of operating, or an increase in the frequency of the bus on which it is installed. So, absolutely any processor, despite the specified operating clock frequency, can operate at frequencies that exceed the nominal by 1.2-1.5 times (it all depends only on the manufacturer and what power reserve factor was invested in the device at its creation or production).

If you are already doing overclocking, you should first evaluate the capabilities of the processor itself, the chipset and the motherboard on which it is installed. For example, any program for overclocking an Intel processor will, of course, immediately display the characteristics of the device.

But don't rush. It's better to use apps like Everest. Although this utility is shareware (requires activation after 30 days), it is the one that is capable of providing the user with the most detailed data not only about the central processor, but also about all other components, including even information about the “motherboard” or the same system bus.

Having assessed all the factors, you can begin. True, there are several basic methods.

Physical overclocking

If we talk about what physical overclocking is, then the same program for overclocking an Intel processor is not required in this case. There is no need to solder anything either.

In principle, in this case the simplest example can be given. Take a regular light bulb and connect it to a power supply equipped with a voltage regulator. As the voltage increases, the light bulb begins to glow brighter and vice versa. The same thing happens with processors.

However, with this overclocking option, you need to be extremely careful not to apply too high a current to the input, otherwise not only the processor, but also the motherboard and everything on it will crash.

It is better to look in advance at the characteristics of the card and the processor in terms of what maximum voltage can be supplied to them.

Using the BIOS

The program cannot always overclock an Intel processor. The easiest way in this regard is to use the BIOS settings (note, at your own risk). When booting a computer or laptop, you need to enter the BIOS settings, called up by keys like Del, F2, F12 (depending on the manufacturer), and then go to the Advanced tab.

After this, you need to use the Jumper Free Configuration line, where you select manual adjustment of the system bus or processor frequency (Manual) in the All Overclocking field. First you need to fix the bus frequency (PCI-Express Frequency) at 101 MHz, and then increase the processor frequency (CPU Frequency) in 10 MHz increments. Now you need to save the parameters, usually using the F10 key (Save & Exit command).

After the reboot, if the system is stable, you can start increasing the processor frequency again. Only in this case it is necessary to use a step of no more than 1 MHz, again, each time saving the changes and testing the entire system for performance.

Program for overclocking Intel processor

As for the applications applicable to processors of this type, there are quite a lot of them today. For example, a utility for overclocking an Intel processor such as SetFSB will be suitable for this.

True, there is one important factor to consider here. The fact is that the application does not overclock the central processor itself, as such, but can vary the system bus frequency. There is a special slider for this. By moving it, in the value fields you can see the initial and current value of the frequency indicator in real time.

It’s worth saying right away that such a program for overclocking an Intel processor is not recommended for beginners. Rather, it is designed for professional overclockers, because by moving the slider too quickly to set extreme values, you can simply “ruin” the entire system, not even in terms of failure of the operating system, but also in the aspect of complete inoperability of the entire hardware.

Overclocking AMD processors

Programs for overclocking Intel and AMD processors have a lot in common. However, according to many specialists and experts, the AMD OverDrive utility is considered the best application.

Compared to the program described above for Intel processors, it has a lot of advantages. First of all, it is worth noting the automatic settings (presets), which allow you to customize the overclocking of absolutely all components without damaging the system. It should also be noted that this software product uses the same principle of sliders. However, when you configure one component, the application is able to automatically align the settings of all the others. So the “crash” of the system can be avoided.

For experienced users, the program provides a special mode in which the sliders are independent of each other, and adjustments are made manually. But even here you need to be careful.

Problems after overclocking

It’s worth saying right away that not a single application, be it a program for overclocking an Intel processor or utilities for AMD chipsets, can give any guarantee that after applying all the steps described above, the computer system will operate in normal mode. This applies not only to the excessive load on the main “hardware” components, which may simply become unusable over time. For example, after the processor has been overclocked, useful programs and utilities can affect both the RAM and even the battery of the same laptop, which will use more electricity when the voltage supply to the central processor increases.

Bottom line

Apparently, every user has already realized that even a program for overclocking an Intel or any other processor cannot guarantee the stability of the computer system. In this case, you can only give advice not to do this if you are not a real specialist in this field.

For inexperienced users, I would like to note that all the methods described above can be used, but only if this is done consciously, at your own peril and risk. Even hardware manufacturers, and even more so software developers, do not provide guarantees of system performance.

Overclocking the central processor is a forced increase in clock frequency. Increasing the clock speed, in turn, increases the processor's performance. Thus, you can get rid of unnecessary expenses on purchasing a new processor. And, nevertheless, it is worth understanding that the laws of physics cannot be outwitted! Overclocking entails an increase in power consumption, processor wear and increased heat generation.

What measures need to be taken before overclocking?

Each processor has its own limit for increasing the clock frequency; exceeding it will lead to failure. If we talk about Intel processors of the popular Core i3, i5, i7 series, they can be overclocked by a maximum of 15 percent. K-series processors are the best overclocked, but only with an unlocked multiplier.

In addition, it is worth knowing that after passing a certain temperature threshold, the overclocked processor begins to skip clock cycles, which reduces performance. It follows from this that you will have to check and, if necessary, improve the cooling system and, possibly, replace the power supply. Therefore, it is better to calculate all costs in advance; it may be more profitable to simply replace the processor.

Before overclocking, you need to check:

• BIOS version, it must be the latest;
• reliability of the cooling system;
• availability of overclocking software;
• test the processor, for example, using the S&M utility ( download).

Programs for overclocking Intel processors

SetFSB - download

The main advantage of the program is that overclocking can be done on the fly by moving the sliders. After changing the clock frequency, you do not need to restart your computer. Using the utility, you can overclock both outdated and new processor models.

The program does not support all motherboards; you can find out which models are supported on the program’s official website. Of course, if you do not consider yourself an advanced user, it is better to forget about this matter.

After launching the program, in the Clock Generator menu you need to select the model of the clocker installed on your motherboard. Next, click the Get FSB button; the window that opens will display the current frequency of the system bus (FSB) and processor. Carefully move the window slider in as small steps as possible, checking the current processor temperature. Having selected the optimal clock frequency, you can press the Set FSB key.

The disadvantage, and perhaps the advantage, of SetFSB is that the settings are saved until the computer is rebooted. You will have to overclock the processor every time you start Windows.

CPUFSB - download

This program is best at overclocking processors. Intel Core i5, i7. It works with a variety of motherboards, there is a Russian version, and the interface is as simple as possible.

In the main menu you need to select the motherboard manufacturer and chipset model. The next step is to click the “Take frequency” button, after which the current processor clock frequency will be displayed. The clock speed increases in small steps, but this must be done carefully. As in the previous application, overclocking persists until the system is rebooted.

SoftFSB - download for free

Another handy app for increasing clock speed on the fly. It also supports most famous motherboards. True, unlike the two previous programs, this one is free. The main disadvantage of the utility is that it is no longer supported; therefore, it will not work with new hardware.

In the FSB select menu, you must specify the model of the board and clock generator. Next, you should press the GET FSB button to capture the current clock frequency. The frequency also increases with the help of sliders.

All of the above programs are easy to use. Of course, advanced users overclock the processor in the BIOS, but this requires knowledge and patience - you need to restart the computer every time after making changes. All three programs allow you to overclock Intel processors on any computer, but if you have a laptop, you should be careful not to increase the frequency to the maximum values.

Despite the fact that some sources suggest downloading special programs for overclocking different types of processors (Intel or AMD), it is best to increase the CPU clock speed through the BIOS. There is no proven software that can overclock the processor. This is due to technical limitations and the fact that each “stone” has its own standards for increasing the frequency. These may vary depending on the type of cooling used. We recommend that you find out the load capacity for the installed chip model and gradually change the values ​​using instructions written specifically for your BIOS version.

Exceeding the maximum permissible overclocking threshold may result in equipment failure.

Programs for overclocking video cards

Programs for overclocking video cards will help you change the main performance indicators on the hardware graphics card of your PC or laptop - voltage, permissible temperature, frequency of the processor and adapter memory, as well as the rotation speed of the cooler. In addition to editing parameters, these utilities allow you to view basic information about the installed equipment.

We emphasize that such programs should be used with external graphics devices that are not integrated into the processor or motherboard. Only in this case will you be able to get a measurable effect from changing the settings.

Among the proposed tools, we highlight them primarily because of their compatibility with the largest number of devices.

Programs for overclocking random access memory (RAM)

As with the processor, there are no stable utilities that can change the operating frequency of the RAM using the operating system. You need to edit these parameters through the BIOS; moreover, it is important that the new frequency is supported not only by the memory, but also by the motherboard. You can read the instructions for changing frequencies in the user manual for your motherboard.

You may come across the opinion that there are programs for overclocking “old” RAM (DDR) on laptops, but we were unable to find working versions of such utilities.

Programs to improve disk performance

The main factors influencing the performance of hard drives are its current state and file layout.

You can check the current state by S.M.A.R.T. analysis and, if necessary, format the device “correctly” using the HDD Low Level Format Tool; it scored the most points in our thematic one.

In addition, the performance of classic hard drives depends on how evenly the data is distributed over the surface. Many different system utilities contain a file structuring (defragmentation) function. Among the specialized solutions, we highlight and.

Windows optimization programs

We previously discussed utilities that will help optimize the operating system in a separate section.

Other Factors Affecting Performance

If you use external devices, do not forget that the communication speed depends on the protocol used. For example, it is better to connect modern phones and flash drives to a USB port that is compatible with the 3.0 protocol; it is blue.

Also, do not forget that due to the presence of malware, the computer may noticeably slow down. To protect your system, we recommend using antivirus programs; we have also dedicated a separate section to them.

Overclocking is a forced increase in the processor clock frequency above the nominal one. Let us immediately explain what these concepts mean.

A clock cycle is a conditional, very short time period during which the processor executes a certain number of program code instructions.

And the clock frequency is the number of clock cycles in 1 second.

An increase in clock frequency is directly proportional to the speed of program execution, that is, an overclocked processor runs faster than an unoverclocked one.

In short, overclocking allows you to extend the “active life” of the processor when its standard performance no longer meets the user’s requirements.

It allows you to increase the speed of your computer without spending money on buying new equipment.

Important! The negative aspects of overclocking are an increase in computer power consumption, sometimes quite noticeable, an increase in heat generation and accelerated wear of devices due to operation in abnormal mode. You should also know that when you overclock the processor, you also overclock the RAM.

What should you do before overclocking?

Each processor has its own overclocking potential - a clock frequency limit, exceeding which leads to inoperability of the device.

Most processors such as intel core i3, i5, i7 can be safely overclocked to only 5-15% of the original level, and some even less.

The best of the Intel family is the K-series, which is specially oriented towards this with an unlocked multiplier.

The desire to squeeze the maximum possible clock frequency does not always pay off, since when a certain heating threshold is reached, the processor begins to skip clock cycles in order to lower the temperature.

It follows from this that for stable operation of an overclocked system, good cooling is necessary.

In addition, given the increased power consumption, it may be necessary to replace the power supply with a more powerful one.

Immediately before overclocking, you need to do three things:

• Update your computer's BIOS to the latest version.
• Make sure that the processor cooler is installed properly and securely.
• Find out the initial clock frequency of your processor (look in the BIOS or through special utilities, for example, CPU-Z).

It is also useful to test the processor for stability at maximum load before overclocking. For example, using the S&M utility.

After this, it’s time to begin the “sacrament.”

Review of programs for overclocking Intel processors

SetFSB

SetFSB is an easy-to-use utility that allows you to overclock the processor on the fly by simply moving the slider.

After making changes, it does not require restarting the computer.

The program is suitable for overclocking both older processor models like Intel Core 2 duo and modern ones.

However, it does not support all motherboards, and this is an absolute necessity, since overclocking is carried out by increasing the reference frequency of the system bus.

That is, it affects the clock generator (PLL chip or, as it is called, a clocker) located on the motherboard.

You can find out whether your board is included in the list of supported ones on the program website.

Advice! To avoid processor failure, working with SetFSB is recommended only for experienced users who understand what they are doing and are aware of the possible consequences. In addition, an untrained user is unlikely to be able to correctly determine the model of his clock generator, which must be specified manually.

So, to overclock the processor using SetFSB, you need:

• Select from the “Clock Generator” list the model of the clocker installed on your motherboard.
• Click the “Get FSB” button. After this, the SetFSB window will display the current frequency of the system bus (FSB) and processor.
• Carefully move the slider in the center of the window in small steps. After each slider movement, it is necessary to monitor the processor temperature. For example, using the Core Temp program.
• Having selected the optimal position of the slider, you need to press the Set FSB button.

The advantage (and for some, the disadvantage) of the SetFSB utility is that the settings made in it will only be valid until the computer is rebooted. After restarting, they will have to be installed again.

If you don’t want to do this every time, the utility can be placed in startup.

CPUFSB

CPUFSB is the next program in our review for overclocking Intel core i5, i7 and other processors, which can be downloaded from the developer’s website.

If you are familiar with the CPUCool utility - a comprehensive tool for monitoring and overclocking a processor, then know that CPUFSB is a dedicated overclocking module from it.

Supports many motherboards based on Intel, VIA, AMD, ALI and SIS chipsets.

Unlike SetFSB, CPUFSB has a Russian translation, so it is much easier to understand how to use it.

The principle of operation of these two programs is the same: increasing the reference frequency of the system bus.

Operating procedure:

• Select the manufacturer and type of your motherboard from the list.
• Select the brand and model of the PLL (clock oscillator) chip.
• Click “Take frequency” to display the current frequency of the system bus and processor in the program.
• It is also necessary to increase the frequency in small steps, while controlling the processor temperature. After selecting the optimal setting, click “Set Frequency”.

CPUFSB allows you to set the FSB bus frequency the next time you start the program and when you exit. The current settings are also saved until the computer is restarted.

SoftFSB

Our review ends with the SoftFSB utility, another tool for overclocking a processor on the fly. It is no more difficult to use than previous programs.

Just like them, it supports many models of motherboards, various models of clock generators and any processors.

Unlike the paid SetFSB and CPUFSB, you can use SoftFSB for free.

However, there is no guarantee that it will run on your computer as it is no longer supported by the author.

To overclock a processor using SoftFSB, you also need to know the model of the motherboard, PLL chip and be a fairly experienced user.

Procedure:

• In the “FSB select” section, specify the model of the board and clock generator.
• Click the "GET FSB" button to capture the processor and bus frequencies.
• While monitoring the processor temperature, find the optimal frequency by moving the slider in the middle of the window.
• Having selected the appropriate value, press the “SET FSB” button.

As you can see, everything is the same here. A lot of other programs for overclocking processors under Windows work using a similar algorithm.

In addition to universal ones, there are utilities with overclocking functions that are produced by motherboard manufacturers themselves.

They are somewhat easier and safer to use, since they are designed for a simple user and obviously cannot harm the system.

Important! All the programs reviewed allow you to overclock Intel processors on both laptops and desktop PCs. But if you have a laptop, you should be very careful not to raise the system bus frequency to high values.

How to overclock an amd (Intel) processor without BIOS and programs

3 best programs for overclocking an Intel processor

Increasing processor performance for some is a desire to have the highest available PC performance, while for others it is a necessity for stable and comfortable work. Both categories of users need proper overclocking, otherwise it may lead to unpleasant consequences and financial waste instead of the expected savings.

First of all, in this case you will need a good overclocking program that will be compatible with the motherboard. We talked about similar programs for overclocking Intel processors, and now we want to look at analogues for AMD.

This program was created specifically by AMD for users who want to get a performance boost. It is completely free, but at the same time truly effective and functional.
Let's start with the advantages, of which this program has plenty. For AMD OverDrive, it doesn't matter what kind of motherboard you have, as long as the processor is compatible. The full list of supported processors is as follows: Hudson-D3, 770, 780/785/890 G, 790/990 X, 790/890 GX, 790/890/990 FX. Actually, products are supported both new and “not the first freshness”, i.e. those released 5 years ago or more. But the biggest advantage of the program is the list of its features. It has everything for high-quality overclocking: control sensors, testing, manual and automatic overclocking. You will find a more detailed description of the possibilities by clicking on the link located just below.

The only downside that can be noted is the lack of Russian language, which, however, does not interfere with most home overclockers. Well, and the fact that Intel owners, unfortunately, will not be able to use AMD OverDrive.

ClockGen

KlockGen is a program that, unlike the previous one, is not as beautiful or convenient, but the main thing is that it is functional. In comparison with many small analogues, it is of interest because it works not only with the FSB bus, but also with the processor and RAM. For high-quality overclocking, there is also the ability to monitor temperature changes. The lightweight and compact utility supports many motherboards and PLLs, does not take up space on your hard drive and does not load the system.

But not everything is so wonderful: there is no Russian language again, and ClockGen itself has not been supported by its creator for a long time, so new and even relatively new components are incompatible with it. But old computers can be overclocked so that they get a second life.

SetFSB

This program is universal, as it is suitable for both Intel and AMD. Users often choose it for overclocking, noting such advantages as support for many motherboards, simple interface and use. One of the main advantages is that SetFSB allows you to programmatically identify the chip. This is especially true for laptop owners who cannot recognize their PLL. SetFSB works in the same way as ClockGen - before rebooting the PC, which significantly reduces possible risks, such as failure of the motherboard, overheating of devices. Since the program is still supported by the developer, he is also responsible for the relevance of supported versions of motherboards.

The disadvantages include the fact that residents living in the Russian Federation will have to pay approximately $6 to use the latest version of the program, and even after purchase there is no need to wait for Russification.

In this article, we talked about three programs that are suitable for overclocking an AMD processor. The user will have to choose a program based on the processor and motherboard model, as well as their own preferences.

As you already understand, we specifically selected programs that can work with hardware from different years of production. For older computers, ClockGen is perfect, for newer ones - SetFSB, and for owners of medium and new ones, AMD OverDrive will help.

In addition, the capabilities of the programs also differ. ClockGen, for example, allows you to overclock the buses, RAM and processor; SetFSB additionally helps identify PLLs, and AMD OverDrive has a huge number of functions for full overclocking with a quality check, so to speak.