Windows 7: CPU Frequency change?

Hey guys just a quick question I just bought a new Intel Core 2 Quad CPU Q8400 and I'm lookin on CPU-ID and Core Temp and my processor goes from running at a core speed of 1994.4 with a x6 multiplier up to 2659.9 with a x8 mulitplier....my question is is this normal or have I done something wrong? Screenshots posted

Colby1888, welcome to the forum.

Looks like SpeedStep is active,

Enhanced Intel SpeedStep® Technology How To Document

So to answer your question, yes it is normal when it is enabled.

I would suggest leaving it enabled, unless your doing some really heavy overclocking (like 450FSB +)

It's a good thing.

Ok thank you very much this was my first time ever changing a CPU and I was hoping I didn't mess anything up....and now for my next question since everything seems to be running fine....is a 300w PSU big enough to overclock this processor? I would like to get it into about the 3.5 GHz range if possible

With the setup in your specs, I would say 300W isnt enough or close, as you are right now. Depending on the quality of the PSU.
If its one that came with a pre-built machine for example, then I would say dont chance OCing.

You may want to invest in a better PSU.

to give you an idea what kind of wattage you need:
eXtreme Power Supply Calculator

But remember, 12V rail Amperage is the most important thing. NOT Watts.

For your setup ,it will consume around 200W avg. But once you start overclocking, the power draw will increase significantly.
But youll probably want around 32Amps at least to be nice and safe.

Perhaps upgrading to something like a 400 or 450W Corsair would be a great help, and give you some overhead.

Found this on Newegg.com a little cheaper than 450W Corsair I found on site...is there really any compatibility issues with PSU's? http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16817341016

I do not know much about the OCZ Psus, sadly.

But it looks as if it uses 2 12V rails at 18A each.

Where as the 450W Corasiar uses 1 single 12V rail @ 33A
and the 400W version uses 1 single 12V rail @ 30A (this one is 54.99)

<<<For reference: The typical 300W PSU that comes with a Pre-Built machine is a 300W with a 16-18A 12V rail -- although there are a few exceptions>>>

As far as compatability? Nothing to really worry about. Just get something that is of good quality build.
<<Just my Opinion>> But, I've never been a big fan of multiple 12V rails. While 2 @ 18A each looks as if it should be a 36Amp PSU, it doesnt quite work that way since its splitting the rail.

Thats not saying the OCZ is a bad choice. I simply can not speak for them, and have no experience with thier PSUs. Perhaps others do.


The 400W would be plenty for what you have with a little head room.

One thing to consider, is future upgrades. Like if you decide to get a more powerful graphics card. If thats something you think you may do, it might be worth considering something like a 500-550W (35A+) PSU so theres more headroom for upgrades like this.

If your power supply is one of those generic psu's that come free with the case don't even try and start overclocking anything without being aware of the risk you potentially have. I recently read a review which compared generic case psu's, and it basically said "replace at the first opportunity" or, live to regret it. If you bought a 300w psu recently and knew you wanted to overclock your system, a bit of research might have helped? This calculator can help you determine the size psu you need. here

Jinker

@Wishmaster
Thanks for the info and I am upgrading my graphics card next week so I'm glad you mentioned that I will look into the Corsair PSU more maybe get something a little bigger 550W -750W

@jinker
Yes this is the generic PSU that came with pc and I didn't think it was gonna be able to OC the processor thats why I asked and thanks for the help and the link to the PSU calculators was a big help