Intel has found a solution to the problem of over-clocking on non-K Skylake CPUs. This comes as unfortunate news for over-clockers who intend to save some money on their next custom build. The chip maker is officially launching an update that will resolve the issue.
Over-clocking not covered under warranty
Intel will roll it out as a microcode update, making it impossible for over-clockers to increase the bclock setting on a non-K processor and increase the speed of the chip. Intel’s non-K processors cost significantly less than expensive processors like the Core i7 6700K, which make them ideal for PC builders on a budget. In a statement to PC World, an Intel representative said that the company regularly issues updates for its processors, which its partners incorporate into their BIOS willingly.
“The latest update provided to partners includes, among other things, code that aligns with the position that we do not recommend over-clocking processors that have not been designed to do so. Additionally, Intel does not warranty the operation of the processor beyond its specifications,” the chip maker said.
Because the official warranty does not cover damage by over-clocking, and the chip maker sells a Performance Tuning Protection Plan on i5 and i7 processors; the price varies in the range of $20 to $35, depending on the model.
To push users towards expensive Intel chips
A variety of negative effects can impact the life of a non-K processor that is significantly over-clocked. With cheaper over-clocking options eliminated, users will be pushed towards more expensive chips, and the number of users purchasing a protection plan on their CPUs could also be increased.
It is possible for current non-K processor owners to skip this update by avoiding any BIOS update to the motherboard within their custom build. There is at least one manufacturer that’s rolling out the update that shuts down the over-clocking loophole. Most likely, more motherboard manufacturers will follow suit in the coming weeks.
Such a move from Intel neither comes as a shock, nor is it unprecedented. The company has shut the door on over-clocking in the past with cheaper H-series and B-series chipsets, pushing people towards using the pricier Z-series chipset motherboards.
In premarket trading today, Intel shares were down by almost 1%. Year to date, the stock is down by over 16%, while in the last year, it is down by over 13%.
