Overclocked processor crashes after running Prime95?

Question

I overclocked my processor a few days ago. The processor is a Intel Core i7 3820 @ 3.6Ghz. I overclocked it to 4.6GHz. The motherboard I'm using is a Asus Sabertooth x79. I followed a guide: http://www.overclock.net/a/dummys-guide-to-x79-oc-asus . Today I decided to run Prime95 on blend. After 30 min, I got a Windows 8 screen, saying an error called clock_watchdog_timeout. The temperatures weren't the issue. I'm guessing my overclock is unstable. Does anyone know how I can fix my overclock to be stable or should I restore it back to 3.5Ghz? Is there any other guide anyone can recommend for my processor?

Heres my specs:

- Asus Sabertooth x79
- Intel i7 3820 @ 3.60GHz OCed to 4.6GHz
- 16GB RAM DDR3
- Asus HD7770 2GB
- Corsair CX750M PSU
- WD Caviar Black 1TB 7,200RPM
- SanDisk Extreme SSD 120 GB
- Corsair H100i
- Windows 8

Answer 1

Slightly increase the voltage in increments till your system is stable with Prime95.

Answer 2

Thats because the CPU failed to carry out the heavy tasks entrusted to it by Prime95. Increase you voltage and also unlock FSB multiplier( If its locked) from bios. But increasing voltage leads to increased heat and also reeduces the lifespan of CPU. I do a lot of overclocking. If you want to push it beyond the limits, be sure to use an aftermarket cooler from cooler master or any other. Liquid cooling is recommended but is little expensive. Also make enough room for air inside you casing and protect it from dust. This will allow the heat to go outside.

Answer 3

if it doesn't fail when it is not overclocked than obviously means it is unstable. I would bump the voltage a little to get more stability