Probably, many users, digging into the BIOS of their favorite computer, came across such an inscription - CPU Frequency. What does it mean? Can this parameter be changed? What will happen if I put down completely different numbers there? We will try to answer this question in a simple and understandable language. However, first you need to deal with the concept itself and only then try to change something in the BIOS settings of the computer.
What is CPU Frequency?
So what is the CPU Frequency in BIOS? This parameter controls the frequency of the memory bus that connects the processor to the main memory. Changing this parameter can increase or decrease the clock frequency of the processor itself. But you need to use this option with extreme caution. Although the step of changing the frequency is only 1 megahertz. In order to find out what frequency the processor supports without risk of overheating (if there is no good cooling system) it will be necessary to change the maximum frequency by trial and error, because there is no such information in the technical documentation.
If in the process of increasing the operating frequency in the BIOS appeared CPU Frequency Warning (a plate with a bunch of English text), then the manipulation should be stopped. This message indicates that the processor is extremely unstable. There is also a recommendation to apply the previous settings, since it was in that mode that the processor worked most stably. However, do not forget that you should not get carried away by changing the CPU Frequency parameter. The value in the settings indicated is optimal. A constant operation of the processor in accelerated mode can dramatically reduce its service life.
What is Dynamic CPU Frequency Mode?
Some users observed such an option in BIOS, but few understood its meaning. In fact, this is an excellent feature responsible for the stable operation of the processor and RAM. So what is the Dynamic CPU Frequency Mode in BIOS? This is an operating mode in which the frequency of the memory bus (and the processor frequency) dynamically changes depending on the complexity of the tasks. That is, if the components need high performance, then the frequency rises automatically, which gives a significant increase in power at the hardware level. This option is much better than manually trying to set the maximum frequency. So you can not be afraid of overheating. In addition, the frequency increases only when necessary, which extends the life of the central processor and RAM of the device. And this in any case is preferable to that option than if the processor worked powerfully, but not for long.
Definition of NB Frequency
There is such a thing in the BIOS as CPU NB Frequency. What it is? Parameter NB is responsible for the operating frequency of the memory controller. The higher it is, the faster memory works. But the problem is that constant operation at higher frequencies quickly leads to wear on the controller. And this is not good. Many professionals, of course, advise setting this parameter to the maximum, saying, "I did it a hundred times, nothing will happen." But here is the question of common sense and logic, and not of who, how many times and how to do it. Increased frequencies in any case reduce the life cycle of the controller. These are the fundamental foundations of physics. So the statements of the "guru" should be treated with a certain amount of skepticism. If you want your computer to work for a long time, then do not play with frequencies. It will be better this way. And do not change the values of the CPU Frequency above the limits. That this reduces the service life of individual components is understandable. But increased frequencies can lead to instant overheating and processor failure. Do you need it?
Some processor overclocking rules
So, you still decided to experiment with the CPU Frequency parameter. That it is very dangerous is already known. But if this does not stop the user, then it is worth giving some recommendations on overclocking the processor. Firstly, never set the maximum frequency parameter immediately. This can lead to instant equipment failure. The frequency must be added one at a time, in order. Secondly, you should not expect a huge increase in productivity. Some comrades after such an overclock do not see any difference in performance. And indeed, it will not work to raise the frequencies significantly anyway. So why torment the processor unnecessarily? Thirdly, before such overclocking, it is advisable to acquire a good cooling system. The fact is that with such acceleration, an increase in frequency is achieved by increasing the voltage on one or another component, which leads to very strong heating. Therefore, without a good cooler (and not one), the computer will work quickly, but not for long.
Some rules for overclocking a memory controller
With this component you need to be doubly careful. It is much more vulnerable than the central processor. And this is not a joke. If you overdo it with a frequency, then the controller will immediately be covered. It is not recommended to increase the operating frequency of the memory bus and the controller without extreme need. This will not give a performance gain, but it will endanger the entire computer. After all, the controller may burn out from overheating, which, in turn, will affect the bus itself and the motherboard. As a result, repairs can result in a pretty decent amount. And especially not worth doing this thing on laptops. In the laptop case, there is already no place for normal air circulation (and one unfortunate fan will not help here). And if you increase the voltage of a component, it will burn faster than you turn on the laptop. It’s not worth the risk. If the central processor can somehow be overclocked in this way (with extreme caution), then it is better not to touch the memory controller at all. It does not have such cool protection as a processor. And the cooler is far from him.
Positive feedback from those who have already overclocked the CPU
However, the Web is full of those who have already changed the value of CPU Frequency. That it was a useful experience, no one denies. But how many people were successful? It should immediately be said that there are many more negative comments. Most CPUs simply could not withstand such loads. Nevertheless, there were those who consider acceleration to be almost an achievement. However, they note that they never tried to immediately get the processor to work at maximum frequencies. Acceleration was carried out gradually. Also, many have installed much more powerful coolers, which also played a positive role. Oddly enough, users note that the performance gain was tangible. They were probably just lucky. However, everyone still has a stable computer. No problem.
Negative comments about overclocking
However, most of the comrades did not heed the recommendations and tried to immediately set the maximum frequency. They paid for it. Also, users could not understand why they need an upgrade of the cooling system with such overclocking. As a result, their computers did not work long, just a couple of days. In general, overclocking the processor by increasing the operating frequency and voltage is very dangerous. Do not engage in such untrained people. The results can be very sad, and repairing a damaged computer will result in a rather large amount. It’s not worth the risk.
Conclusion
So, we have analyzed the term CPU Frequency. What is it is already clear. You also need to remember that in no case should you change this value if you do not know exactly how to do it. It’s better that the computer runs slower, but more stable. It will be better in terms of reliability. And the life of the processor will not decrease.