vcore readings inaccurate??

[SWT4ai]

I have a p4 2.8c on a asus p4c800 deluxe. On the the max vcore voltage on the processor says 1.525 volts, but when I set it to 1.525 in the bios, the computer freezes up or restarts when i start my computer. I fixed the problem when i set it to 1.6 volts, but now the readings on the voltage is nowhere near what I set it to. It fluxuates between 1.7-1.8 volts. I'm using CPU-Z and asus pc probe for the readings. I have an antec 450 watt power supply. Is this normal??? What is the highest i can set the vcore to without damaging the cpu?

 

[myocardia]

It's generally accepted by most overclockers that 1.7v actual is the maximum vcore for long-term use of a P4C. Try lowering it slightly to either 1.55v or 1.575v, then see what CPU-Z and Asus Probe report while the processor is under 100% load.

 

[dqniel]

Hmm, I'm not sure about the antec 450's rails, but I know that some antec's have pretty unstable rails, which I'm guessing (but not sure) could lead to unstable voltages. I'd agree with trying 1.55 or 1.575 since 1.525 is too low and 1.6 is giving such an overvolt.

 

[SWT4ai]

 

[SWT4ai]

I'm getting real frustrated now...playing around with the vcore makes my computer freeze. I set it as auto now and works fine. Reading between 1.6-1.612 now.

 

[dqniel]

Hmm, what is your +5v rail?

 

[SWT4ai]

I'm not sure what you mean by that, but here is my specs for the antec power supply:

+5v +12v +3.3v -5v -12v +5v SB
---------------------------------------------------------
Max 40A 20A 28A .5A .8A 2.0A
---------------------------------------------------------
Min 1.5A .8A 0.5A 0A 0A 0A
---------------------------------------------------------

+5v and +3.3v combined output: 250w
+5v, +3.3v and +12v combined output: 450w

 

[dqniel]

I meant download a program like speedfan so you can check the rails of your psu's lines. Here's what speedfan looks like: My Speedfan Readings

At the bottom of the window you'll find the rails. Pay attention to the 5+ and 12+ mainly. The 5+ deals with the cpu and the 12+ deals with the ram. You want them to be within 5% of the value it should be at for the best overclocking. If the rails are too low it can cause instability and restarts. If the rails are too high (uncommon unless you "overvolt" by adjusting your psu's pots) then you can fry stuff...