General questions on GPU overclocking

Numbafieve · January 22, 2016

So im just having fun seeing what my GPU can do at certain power limits, but it does a few things im not sure why its doing. Its an R9 390 Strix if you are wondering ( yes i know its probably the worst in the 390 series but it was only $270)

1. When i set the clock speed to say 1100 it will do 1100 on unigine valley but on furmark it will max out at like 670. Why?

2. Is it absolutely necessary to have GPUZ, i cant get it to install and work so will MSI afterburner work fine on its own?

3. By reducing the power limit it should in theory run at a lower power draw at max load right? or would decreasing core voltage do so?

4. This is my first time REALLY overclocking my GPU for performance gains and such, I played with my GTX650 but never did anything like this, any tips i should know?

Godlygamer23 · January 22, 2016

1.) Graphics cards throttle due to drivers limiting the GPU. This is a safety precaution due to Furmark's nature of being a "power virus." It is not a proper stress tester.

2.) If you're looking for information about your graphics card, GPU-Z is super useful. If you only need stats, MSI Afterburner will work fine and can also be better since it can display information while in-game.

3.) You will want to decrease both if you're worried about power draw. Bear in mind that you may get a lower clock speed as a result.

4.) Overclock a little bit at a time, stress testing each time with games and Unigine Heaven to ensure stability and watch your temperatures and voltage.