From high-end gaming PCs to small video recording devices, Computers today are very powerful and capable of doing a multitude of tasks. Still, sometimes even then, you might require more. This is where overclocking comes in and can help you increase the performance of your PC. Overclocking increases the clock speed or frequency of computer components to make the component run faster than its intended factory setting.
Overclocking can make your PC run faster and better, but there are some essential things to be wary of before overclocking your PC. There are some risks associated with Overclocking and some aspects that might harm your PC if not looked at.
Compatibility of your hardware
Because your PC is made of multiple hardware components working simultaneously, you must ensure they are compatible. Compatibility with regards to overclocking means that all the components of your PC can handle the increased performance.
Not all motherboards and processors will be able to overclock, so you need to ensure your PC’s motherboard and processor can. Most of the time, pre-built PCs won’t be able to overclock, or you may run into problems unless the PC is custom-built. It’s always best to be aware of all the components and ensure you can safely overclock your PC.
Your PC’s Cooling
Cooling is the next factor you need to be aware of when it comes to overclocking. Cooling is generally not an issue in pre-built PCs as they are assembled with all components’ heat generation in mind. With overclocking, you can run into some problems because most PCs you buy won’t have a sufficient cooling system to support all the extra heat generated from overclocking. Overclocking can create a lot of heat, and without an adequate cooling system, you can end up damaging your PC.
The best solution for a person interested in overclocking their PC is to buy an additional cooler to help support their PC. You can find many different cooling systems, and you want to buy the one that works best with your PC build. If you are custom building your PC, then cooling is something you should consider when looking at the components for your PC so you don’t run into any problems in the future.
Power supply
Overclocking will require more power than usual, so you must ensure your power supply unit can handle the excess amount of power needed. The power supply is also a factor that you must be aware of because insufficient power can make your PC switch off while using it and cause permanent damage.
Nowadays, with most of the power supply units you can find on the market, this should not be an issue as power supply units have increased in their capacity a lot. If you buy one that is considered good by market standards, this shouldn’t be a problem for you. Most pre-built PCs will come with a good enough power supply unit.
The risks associated with overclocking
Overclocking has associated risks; worst case scenario, it can cause permanent damage to your PC or some of its critical components. Before overclocking, you should ensure that it doesn’t interfere with your warranty if you have one, as sometimes some PC sellers might have clauses that can make the warranty void if issues arise from overclocking.
Even in cases where you don’t experience some critical damage, overclocking without proper consideration can still make you run into problems such as crashes or freezing.
Overclocking tools
From the software side of things, there are many tools available to you that can help you overclock your PC and make it easier for you to do so. The level of help they provide you can vary a ton, and you want to ensure that you have software that matches your level of expertise in overclocking. If you are new to it, the software you want to use should be more beginner friendly.
Additional help with overclocking
For people who still might be worried about damaging their PC or not knowing if they have the proper hardware or software, plenty of help is available to them. Online you can find many different videos that can break it down for you and explain it very simply. Other than that, if your issues are more specific, computer shops can also help you and let you know what components you might need or which of the ones you have are inadequate.
