New to stuff like OC, sorry.

1) Hey, just about to build a new rig. Plan to do some minor ocing, and just wondering, what is the limit for CPU temp, to be really safe? Like, 70? 80?

2) If I use Catalyst to up my GC a bit, do I need aftermarket coolers? I'm using 5850, any recommended coolers for that?

3) Also, I'm using i5 750 with Xigmatek Balder, plan to OC till between 3.2 and 3.5, temps are going to be manageable, right?

4) Does lowering the vCore also lowers the power consumption and temp?

5) The temps for the other parts eg, RAM, HDD etc, they are usually negligible, right? As in, they aren't as high as what the GC and CPU will go, so no need to be bothered?

6) Finally, if we keep the CPU temp really low, can we extend the lifespan of the CPU, regardless of OC?


Thanks. Dunno if this is the right section for these questions....

1. to be really safe, the lower the better. mine is 80+C on load. it's near impossible to kill a proc using heat (not impossible). so worry not.

2. cant help with that. new one (new tech) should run cooler.

3. even with stock cooler, it's good to go.

4. lowering vcore mean lower power mean lower bill. (heard that lowering vcore too much (below default setting) can kill ur proc faster, dunno bout this )

5. temp like ram should not be bothered unless u put high Vdimm for it. HDD is definitely hot.

6. extend no. maintain its lifespan yes. will u use ur proc for 15years?? i wont bother bout its lifespan as u probably wont use the same proc for 10 years.

This post has been edited by uzer85: Dec 28 2009, 05:08 PM

Ok, thanks. I've checked some reviews, the stock 5850 can go to 80 under load, so a bit worried about oc.

Is it possible to get >3ghz with vcore lower than default? My priority is getting significant improvement in real life performance, then lowering temp/power/noise.

my suggestion is, try to OC ur proc using stock Vcore first. see how high it can do. getting significant improvement? that's depend on what u want to improve though.

if u really want to see improvement. OC proc and ram. (i cant live without my OCed rig )