Overclocking Problem

[Mana]

I recently built a new computer based around the Q6600. However, now after two weeks of working it won't boot into Windows when set to 3 GHz (9 * 333). The computer posts but gives an error along the lines of "CPU is unworkable or has changed, use SoftMenu setup to correct". I set the CPU back to 2.4 GHz and it seems to be working fine for now.

Does anyone have any idea what is causing this? Everything is at default voltages, and I have run prime95 tests and it passed without error. As well, temperatures have been fine, going from 30-35 degrees at idle to 50 at load. My setup is as follows:

Abit IP35-e
Intel Q6600
Thermalright Ultima-90 with a Scythe 90mm Kama fan and Arctic Silver 5
Crucial Ballistix PC-8500 RAM (2*1GB)
HIS Radeon 3870

Thanks in advance for any help~

 

[Mana]

One other important detail is that the computer stopped doing the double boot that the IP35-e's are famous for after I updated the BIOS, but then starteded to do it again occasionnally after I attached the HD Audio connector (for the audio connecters on the front of the case) to the motherboard on Friday.

I just deattached the HD Audio Connecter and set the computer back to 3 GHz and it works again. I'm going to start running more prime95, memtest, and other tests right now to make sure things are good. Still, any insight into this problem would be good as I do not want to break my Q6600.

 

[Conjugal Visit]

Abit IP35? Serpentroyal will be around shortly, I trust, and he'll get you squared away. Patience.

Regards,

 

[SerpentRoyal]

Avoid the FP audio cable for now. There may be a POST bug with 14 BIOS when used with some hardware. Still cannot duplicate in the lab. I would recommend that you flash the BIOS to 12. It's very fast and stable. Only drawn back is the need for the P35 chipset to check for proper settings prior to POST (double post). This can be a good thing if you have boot problem.

Use the WB switch when you flash 12 BIOS. This will clear the boot block. Instruction @ Abit IP35-E review (1st post). When done with flashing hit F1 per instruction, then shut down PC at the PSU. Clear CMOS for 30 seconds. Reboot and enter BIOS. Load Optimized Default. Hit F10 and reboot. Go back to BIOS and set memory divider to 1:1, RAM voltage and timing to specs, Vcore to VID plus 0.04V, and FSB to 333. Do not modify any other settings. Hit F10 to boot into windows.