If my processor speed is 3.0 GHZ but Windows only "sees" 800 MHz...why?

Question

I built a new rig with an AMD Phenom II processor on a compatible late model Asus board, rated at 3Ghz. BIOS sees it and reports 3Ghz. I recently went to AMD's site and downloaded some updates and new software, including Turbo V, AMD Overdrive utility, and Cool 'n' Quiet from Asus. If I click on system properties, Windows (I use XP Pro) will show me it sometimes is 800Mhz, sometimes 1.8Ghz, but never 3000Mhz. I didn't even configure the programs I listed above...I just installed them. What's going on? Do these programs automatically throttle down the CPU until I really need more power? For my games, I definitely will. Thanks for any help.

Answer 1

Having Cool and Quiet enabled in the Bios will throttle back your cpu when the processor is idle to conserve energy and to keep your processor running cooler...



Your multiplier should be 15 x200=3.0ghz(HT speed)and when the processor is idle the multiplier drops to 4 giving you 800mhz.......As soon as you put a load back on the processor the clock speed jumps back up to 3.0ghz.......So that's totally normal to see those clock speeds at different rates......





Scott

Answer 2

Your power setting is on Balanced. Go into Control Panel, System And Security, Power Options. Change from Balanced to High Performance. You will see it run at 3GHz all the time. After you see this put it back on Balanced. When the extra speed is needed the CPU will run faster. When on Balanced just turn on a bunch of stuff and watch the GHz increase. I own an AMD 965 and run on Balanced. My thinking is that when on Balanced you are under clocking your CPU. It runs slower, cooler, and most likely experiences less wear and tear. Hope this helps. Good Luck.

Answer 3

"Do these programs automatically throttle down the CPU until I really need more power?" - Yes