Detailed Explanation of Overclocking

[tofumonster]

Ok, i've been to multiple forums and websites saying "how to" overclock and get the best performance out of a PC, but i'm not really understanding that stuff.

I've already tried to tweak a few settings in my BIOS, like i've raised my (Intel E6400 2.13GHz) to 2.32GHz by a 290mhz x 8 = 2.32 ghz, and the voltage is about 1.32 (i think that's about right). Now, last of all, how should i adjust my RAM? something about a ratio between my CPU and my RAM...

somebody please explain...

thanks.



My stuff (or atleast the parts that concern this issue):

RAM:CORSAIR XMS2 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM DDR2 675 (PC2 5400)
CPU:Intel E6400
Motherboard: Asus P5B-E

 

[nullpointerus]

Your Intel chip uses a 1:1 RAM ratio, which is the lowest it will go, but even so you should be able to hit 333mhz x 8 = 2.66ghz before hitting stock speeds on your RAM (i.e. 333mhz x 2 = 667mhz, or in other words DDR2-667 a.k.a. PC2-5300). This would be a 25% (total) CPU overclock, which is really good for a first time.

Since this is your first time overclocking, I would recommend sticking with stock voltages. Definitely get a program (i.e. Intel TAT) to monitor your temperatures as that--in conjunction with using stock voltage--will let you avoid damaging your CPU. Don't go past the 333mhz RAM barrier until you know how to use memtest86.

Stress-testing is important because you want to be sure that when you put your CPU under load, it will remain stable. Getting into windows and running a minute or so of Prime95 is easy, but handling 24 hours of it will really bring out the flaws in your overclock. You do not want to do an OS update or software install with corrupted files.

Good stress-testing information is available in the two sticky threads at the top of this forum.

I'm not sure about the FSB limit on your motherboard, so I can't say for sure whether it will hit 333mhz no problem.

 

[heyheybooboo]

Open your manual
Read . . . Study . . . Take notes
Google is your friend
Read . . . Study . . . Take notes
Buy a bottle of Excedrin (for the headaches) . . . and
Read . . . Study . . . Take notes

Open a spreadsheet program. Enter column names for all appropriate settings.
Read . . . Study . . . Take notes

You have all the tools (especially if you have the the 1.02g)

Good luck!

 

[myocardia]

Originally posted by: nullpointerus
I'm not sure about the FSB limit on your motherboard, so I can't say for sure whether it will hit 333mhz no problem.

Most P5B-E's hit 450-475 Mhz no problem.