What exactly is a cpu stepping?

[Shooters]

Okay, I know all the overclocking hype regarding cpu steppings.....cC0 for PIIIs, AXIA and AYHJA for Tbirds, but what exactly is a stepping? Do cpu manufacturers figure out ways to make the chip more efficient, therefore resulting in better overclocking results and then slap some new letters on the chip?

 

[TunaBoo]

It refers to the plant, process, and batch the chips came in. Some are better than others.

 

[Shooters]

So, when AMD finds a better process to make a chip then they designate it with a new stepping code?

 

[AndyHui]

Read the AnandTech FAQ: What is a CPU stepping?

That should answer all your questions.

 

[Shooters]

Doh! I forgot to look there first, thanks Andy.

 

[Oyeve]

I thought it meant when your chip doesn't OC as much as you expected it to , and you throw it on the floor and stomp on it with your workboots.