I'm building my new computer this week and I do plan to overclock. I'm using an i7 3770k on an AsRock z77 Extreme4 Mobo. This is my first OC, so I don't plan to go crazy with it. I'm thinking 4.5 GHz is completely attainable after watching tutorials and reading various overclocking threads. A big question I have is when adjusting Vcore should I use fixed or offset mode? I'm leaning offset for the power saving benefits and protecting my CPU. Although the fixed mode you get consistent power input no matter the load on the CPU. I can see this being a plus in that you don't have to worry about power fluctuations especially when flying. Although I'm sure in the long term it affects the life of the CPU. Any thoughts?

 

Also, does anyone mess with Turbo offset? How is this different from Vcore offset? How do these settings interact with/affect each other?

 

Todd

Offset mode without a doubt. When stress testing my system occasionally needs 1.424v to retain stability which is on the margins of the reccomended voltage for Sandy Bridge, yet most of the time I need nothing like that. Sitting here typing this I'm averaging less than 1.1v, running FSX I need 1.384v. There is no reason why I'd want to be putting 1.424v through my CPU 24/7. You're not just saving power to the CPU and potentially lengthening its lifespan you're also generating less heat so your CPU cooler and case fans have less work to do, keeping your rig quieter cheaper to run and prolonging the life of your fans etc.

 

I've never had any problems with 'power fluctuations' and I dont know about 'Turbo Offset' so can't help you with these.