If you're not a computer gaming enthusiast or have a
nickname that rhymes with Greek... overclocking may
be a term that's foreign to you. Overclocking is
usually associated with gaming computers and it's a
way of increasing your computer's performance without
having to pay the higher price tag.
Overclocking basically refers to changing the frequency
of an electronic component; the name comes from the
"clock" which acts as a timer which sends out an electronic
wave that determines the speed at which the component
processes information. In regards to computers or laptops,
this usually means the CPU and the FSB.
Now if all that is also sounding a bit foreign to you, just
remember overclocking simply means changing the default
speed in a CPU to a more faster level to achieve better
performances from your computer. Gamers use it to rev up
their gaming machines to get the ultimate performance level
possible. Like you would!
The theory goes something like this: in order for major
CPU makers like Intel to turn out new CPUs every few months
or so, they simply design a single processor and then release
it with different configurations, usually at the most stable
frequencies so your computer will run smoothly. Changing
the clock frequencies is one way they can have a new processor
very quickly. Since the major market share is for mid to low
range CPUs that's where most of them are configured/sold at this
level. However, many of these CPUs can operate at a much greater
frequency with higher performances just a few adjustments away.
Gamers and computer enthusiasts have figured this out and
by changing this frequency they can get a high-end CPU
without having to pay the higher price. Overclocking is
simply a way of getting more bang from your computer
spending bucks.
WARNING & DISCLAIMER
However, there's a major WARNING that should come with
any discussion of Overclocking - along with a major
DISCLAIMER. If you don't know exactly what you're
doing, you can seriously damage your computer. That's
why overclocking will usually VOID your warrenty with
your computer maker or seller. Proceed with caution and
at your own risk if you attempt to overclock your laptop
or computer. There are serious risks involved.
Nor is overclocking a simple procedure, it can be very
complicated and does require some knowledge of how computer
systems work and operate. What really complicates the whole
process is the variations of the "electrical and physical
characteristics" of different computer systems, plus many
factors are involved such as CPU multipliers, thermal loads,
cooling methods, bus dividers, voltages and so on.
Keep in mind, with overclocking you're talking about
changing the frequency of the FSB (Front Side Bus) which
literally dictates how fast all your computer components
will run. By changing the FSB speed you can change the
speed of your CPU and RAM. End result: faster laptop or
computer.
However, as mentioned before there are major risks involved;
change the frequency of the FSB too high and you can end
up with hard drive failure. There is also the more serious
issue of overheating your laptop or computer which could
result in permanent damage. In other words, you could "fry"
your machine.
That's why most experts suggest you not change the FSB
speed by more than 20-30 MHz. Also remember, not all CPUs
(due to manufacturing processes) can be overclocked. And
also as a general rule of thumb, it is usually not wise
to overclock a laptop that's already "hot to the touch".
Likewise, some CPUs are much more suited for overclocking
because they run at cooler levels and use little power -
these include the Pentium M and AMD Turion lines.
If you want to learn more about overclocking and exactly
how it's done - you can check out this excellent detailed
article on overclocking from LaptopLogic:
http://laptoplogic.com/resources/detail.php?id=15
This article will explain the steps you need to take to
"overclock" your computer system or laptop. Again, even
this information comes with a solid warning about the
dangers of overclocking your computer system. Proceed
with the right care and you can improve your gaming
laptop's performance. Proceed the wrong way or become
too power hunger and having a "fry-up" will take on a
whole new meaning!
....
The author runs a handy online Laptop Guide featuring
the latest top gaming laptops:
Best Gaming Laptops
To learn more about laptop computers try here:
Laptop Buying Guide
Copyright © 2008 Titus Hoskins. This article may be
freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.
