Variable processor speeds

Question

We’ve all seen processor specs like; 2.0ghz to 4.3ghz. I read this throttled CPU speed is a function of CPU temperature; the cooler the CPU gets the faster it can run. I’d like to understand this a bit more. Many have gone to installing larger CPU heat sinks, larger fans, even manually controlling fan speed. These actions are done to keep the CPU cooler / to keep the CPU from getting too warm.

So, anyone have an answer to when / what temperature limits allow the CPU to run at a higher clock rate than the base 2.9ghz? If my CPU runs at under 30C, is it running at 3.5ghz (some frequency other than the base 2.9?)

Is there an accurate program that will let me look that what speed the CPU is running at?

Are making the fan / heat sink modifications allowing our CPU’s to run faster?

When we turn our system on in the morning, does it start off running at 4.3ghz, then slow down as the CPU warms up?

These are interesting questions to me. Hoping someone has factual answers to the above.

Thanks, Scott.

Vic384 · Accepted Answer

@Colorado_scott First of all, the temperature is not the only factor that determines what frequency the CPU cores are running at. Other factors include workload, number of active cores, estimated current, and power consumption.

You can use a program like HWiNFO to monitor core clock frequencies and temperatures. Core frequencies and temperatures are listed under Sensors.

You cannot specify the maximum frequency for CPU function, the frequency is automatic and dependent on working conditions. Making modifications to improve CPU cooling will only help if the temperature was the only factor.

See this link for more information about Intel Turbo Boost Technology.

Tesla1856 · Answer

1. I read this throttled CPU speed is a function of CPU temperature; the cooler the CPU gets the faster it can run. 2. Is there an accurate program that will let me look that what speed the CPU is running at? ============================ 1. I think only if it's 'thermal throttling' which it should not be, ever ... especially not with Active cooling (ie fans). AFAIK, Intel Turbo Boost is more based on workload. 2. As I mentioned in other thread ... CPUID's HW-Monitor.

Colorado_scott · Answer

Thanks Vic,

So if I understand correctly, if the CPU is not under any 'load' and at room temperature, the CPU clock speed should be fairly high - is that correct? (i.e., if I minimize workload, number of active cores, estimated current, and power consumption the CPU should be running fairly fast - is that true?) If the room temperature increases, the clock speed should drop at some point as the CPU is heating up.

I should be able to monitor this under HWinfo (which I happen to have).. that's neat I can do this.

I don't want to maximize the CPU clock rate, just monitor it so see when it's performing at max frequency. I also think this, as you state, "the frequency is automatic and dependent on working conditions" - and I'd like to know when the CPU will be operating at it's max.. when idling.. nothing in the background.. but you have sort of answered this above.

Thanks

Vic384 · Answer

@Colorado_scott I light loads the CPU should be running at close to the maximum frequency on all cores. Even if the room temperature increases, the maximum frequency may not drop unless the workload increases. I doubt that your room temperature alone would increase enough to throttle down the maximum frequency.

If you had a K processor and sufficient cooling and power you could overclock and not have to deal with turbo boost. With overclocking you could potentially set the maximum frequency and have it run at the frequency all the time. I have to say that the Dell motherboard is really not designed for overclocking. even though Dell offers the K processor as an option.

XPS Desktops

Variable processor speeds

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