Program to improve the processor on a PC. Overclocking the processor using programs

Using the experience of other users, we can confidently say that the universal and most commonly used programs for overclocking the system are:

• setFSB;
• CPUFSB;
• SoftFSB.

We will talk about them, but at the end of the article, but first we will study the theory and carry out preparatory work.

What is important to know before overclocking an Intel processor?

Of course, you can immediately go to the end of the article, download the software and get started. But thoughtlessly, without understanding the process itself, pressing the “pedals” in the program can lead to a somewhat unexpected result. And the instructions say that this software is intended for “experienced users.” Therefore, for now we just read and delve into it.

Frequency increase

So, an increase in system performance can be obtained by increasing the clock speed of the central processing unit (CPU) or the system bus (FSB - front system bus). But most modern CPUs do not allow increasing the clock frequency, because this limitation is imposed by the computer manufacturer. In this case, it is necessary to increase the FSB clock frequency. At the same time, you need to understand that changing the system bus parameters will entail a change in the operation of not only the CPU, but also other modules of the personal computer - memory, video card or network card.

Changing the multiplier

The frequency at which the processor or system bus operates is the clock frequency of the generator itself, multiplied by some number, a multiplier. You can determine the multiplier using specialized computer testing software, such as CPU-Z. In essence, “overclocking” is an increase in this particular parameter. You can change it both in the BIOS subsystem, before loading the operating system, and using programs launched already under the Windows operating system.

Increasing supply voltage

Increasing the clock frequency multiplier often leads to unstable operation of the system as a whole and does not give the expected effect without increasing the supply voltage. This is especially noticeable with a significant increase in multipliers. Consequently, it is necessary to increase the supply voltage of both the processor and the bus itself. However, when changing the voltage, care must be taken not to exceed the permissible limits. Also, you should be aware that increasing the supply voltage inevitably entails an increase in the CPU temperature and the need for effective cooling.

Preparing to overclock the processor

We have studied the theory and finally move on to practice.

We go into the BIOS and see if the manufacturer allows changing the frequency multiplier, processor supply voltage, etc. We are not changing anything for now, we are just studying the situation. We also find a jumper with the inscription “clear cmos”. It will be useful to us if, by changing the parameters, we cannot start the computer.

We boot the computer and run the CPU-Z program. This is free software and can be easily found and downloaded online. We study the system in detail, the current values ​​of frequencies and multipliers. There, on the Internet, we find another program - HWMonitor. Using it, we determine the current readings of the system temperature.

We try to load the computer with a stress test from the first program and measure the temperature with the second program.

If the temperature values ​​exceed 60 degrees without “overclocking”, you can stop there. Unfortunately, this system cannot be overclocked.

If the temperature test passes, you should search the Internet for information about the processor and motherboard installed in the computer. In addition, you need to determine which PLL chip - frequency generator - is installed on the motherboard. We need this information when using specialized software.

Overclocking an intel processor on a laptop

Let's take a short break and talk about laptops. The situation here is not very good, because laptop hardware systems are the worst to overclock, and there are several reasons for this:

• an “overclocked” processor generates more heat, and cooling a hot chip in the limited space of a laptop case is quite a task;
• The laptop power system is not designed for the increased power consumption of an “overclocked” processor or bus;
• It is not always possible to find the necessary data (find out the frequency generator chip and select software) to overclock the processor or FSB of a laptop using software. And if it succeeds, then the practical implementation fails - the system freezes for one reason or another: either the laptop memory cannot operate at the specified frequency, or the built-in video card fails.

Therefore, laptop manufacturers limit as much as possible the possibilities of increasing the processor or bus frequency, as well as voltage values, using the BIOS subsystem.

Despite all this, sometimes it is possible to increase the performance of standard laptops, but as side effects we get an increase in fan noise and a decrease in the battery life of the laptop.

Overclocking the processor via BIOS

Let's continue! The simplest method, used since the days of the first Pentiums, is to increase the frequency values ​​directly in the computer BIOS. Modern BIOS subsystems do not always allow you to change the set parameters, but if the manufacturer provides such an opportunity, then a wide field of activity is open to the user. The screenshots below show an example of BIOS settings before and after overclocking.

Changed parameters are marked in red.

If, after adjusting the values, the system freezes and access to the bios setup is impossible, you should reset the default settings by closing certain contacts on the motherboard or removing the battery.

Programs for overclocking Intel processors

If the motherboard manufacturer has limited overclocking capabilities by changing settings in the BIOS, you can try to overclock the system using special programs.

SetFSB

A very popular program among overclockers. Allows you to set the bus frequency, contains a large PLL database. It’s easy to work with the program, but it’s just as easy to crash the operating system. Therefore, we change the frequency values ​​smoothly, in small steps.

An unpleasant nuance. Starting from version 2.2.134, the program is paid, the setfsb button is inactive, and the command line mode does not work. There are two solutions to the problem: either use older versions of the software, or look for ways to register later versions.

So, step by step:

• select “our” clock-generator
• press the “get fsb” button
• smoothly move the slider a couple of steps
• press the “set fsb” button

We determine the stability of the system using stress tests. We repeat until we get BSOD or satisfaction from overclocking. Since all manipulations are performed only at the time the program is launched, after restarting the computer, the original settings are returned. To permanently use clock frequency settings, you must enable the program's command mode. Details are specified in the setfsb.txt file in the program folder. The same file contains a list of supported motherboards and frequency generators.

CPUFSB

An application similar in functionality. In this case, there is a correct translation into Russian.

Essentially, CPUFSB is a dedicated CPUCool software module - a utility for monitoring and overclocking the processor. The program supports a large number of motherboards from various manufacturers.

The operating procedure is similar:

• select the type of motherboard;
• select the PLL chip type;
• “take frequency” - get current values;
• change the current frequency values ​​- “set frequency”.

Frequency settings are saved until the system is rebooted.

SoftFSB

Another application for changing the clock frequency of the bus or processor. Unfortunately, the program is not currently supported by the author. Consequently, it may not run on modern systems, since it “does not know” about the latest PLL releases.

The principle of operation of the program is the same - select the correct motherboard and clock generator, read the data, smoothly change the current settings and write them.

Consequences of overclocking are the user's responsibility

As a result, we have the following:

• overclocking a computer involves increasing frequencies and voltages;
• You can change the frequency values ​​both in the BIOS and programmatically;
• Overclocking software operates in the same way. The differences between the utilities lie in the ability to support particular equipment;
• not every equipment can be “overclocked”;
• increasing frequencies and voltages should occur step by step.

And the most important thing -

Responsibility for all actions taken related to changing the standard settings of the equipment rests entirely with the person who made these changes.

Clock frequency is the number of oscillations that occur in one second. The number of synchronizing cycles, if we talk about a personal computer, is the operations (program code instructions) that the processor performs during this period of time. The performance of a PC directly depends on the clock frequency and it can be overclocked by increasing the number of oscillations.

« Hertz" - this is the name of the unit with which frequency is measured. This unit of measurement was developed by Heinrich R. Hertz. At the end of the 19th century, a physicist conducted a special experiment that proved the wave nature of light. According to Hertz's theory, light is nothing more than an electromagnetic wave propagated by special waves. And the longer the electromagnetic radiation (wave), the brighter the light we see. The color of light directly depends on the wavelength.

There are two types of clock frequency - external and internal. The board, processor, and RAM exchange information (data), and the external frequency is responsible for this. But it depends on the internal one how quickly and correctly the processor itself will work.

Once you overclock your processor, you will encounter some problems, quite significant ones. After completing the procedure, your personal computer will begin to consume more electricity, in some cases the increase is very noticeable. Overclocked processors suffer from increased heat dissipation. And most importantly, devices break down faster, because they have to work in extraordinary mode. Along with an overclocked processor, the number of oscillations (clock frequency) of the RAM also increases, therefore, it can also quickly fail.

What should you do before overclocking?

Maximum clock speed is bad. On the one hand, a personal computer increases its performance several times, and on the other, when the processor heats up to the maximum permissible value, it reduces the temperature by skipping oscillations (cycle). Therefore, if you want to overclock the device to the maximum, then you must take care of a good cooling system. Without cooling, you will not get the maximum percentage by which you overclocked the processor. It will decrease due to the fact that it will skip cycles, trying to lower the temperature. Also, do not forget that electricity consumption also increases. In order for an overclocked processor to work efficiently, you need to install a new power supply.

Before overclocking your processor, follow these three steps:

1. The computer's BIOS must be updated to the latest version.
2. You should know how the processor cooling system works: whether it is installed securely and whether there are any malfunctions.
3. Determine the processor clock frequency and its initial value by looking in the BIOS, or using special programs.

Review of programs for overclocking Intel processors

SetFSB

Before using this utility, go to the official page and check if there is a model for your personal computer in the list of approved motherboards. The advantages of this program include its light weight (only about 300 kb), ease of learning and management, high operating efficiency, and regular updates.

Recommendation! The developers of the program do not recommend using it for beginners who do not understand the dangers it may pose. And besides, an inexperienced user is unlikely to be able to independently find out what model of clock pulse generator is in his computer. It is specified manually.

• What model of clock generator is on the motherboard? Select it from the "Clock Generator" drop-down list.
• Click "Get FSB". You will see two frequencies - the device itself and the system bus.
• Move the slider carefully, constantly measuring the processor temperature. This can be done using a specialized utility.
• When the slider position is optimal, click Set FSB.

CPUFSB

How to overclock a processor using CPUFSB:

• Find your motherboard model in the drop-down list.
• Find the PLL chip model in the drop-down list.
• Click on “Take frequency”. You will see the initial frequency of the device and system bus.
• The frequency increases in the same way: with careful movements until the required level is reached. Do not forget to monitor the processor temperature using a special program. Once the desired values ​​are set, click “Set Frequency”.

SoftFSB

This program is also intended only for experienced users who understand motherboard models and clock generators.

• Find your clock generator and motherboard model.
• Find out what the current bus and processor frequencies are.
• Gently move the slider until you find the desired frequency. At the same time, do not forget, as in similar programs, to monitor the processor temperature.
• When the optimal number of clock cycles is selected, click on “SET FSB”.

These utilities, which you met above, can be used for both personal and laptop computers. But when overclocking the processor on laptop computers, you should be as careful as possible so as not to harm or damage the processor. The system clock speed should not be increased to the maximum value.

Overclocking an Intel processor– this is a procedure for removing the restriction on the number of processed cycles in a period of time (1 second). It is not recommended to consider overclocking a processor without basic concepts in this area.

general information

A tick is a very short period of time that is required to calculate the transmitted code, usually it is a small fraction of a second. Clock frequency is the number of clock cycles in 1 second. Overclocking provokes minimal information processing time.

The computer processes the information flow using oscillations; the more the processor can process in one go, the higher the number of hertz (a unit of measurement of frequency). Accordingly, we force the processor to work in freelance mode, leaving less time for unloading.

There are several types of frequencies:

1. External is the frequency of data transfer between different equipment, even within the same system unit;
2. Internal is the operating speed of the equipment itself (which we will increase).

Obviously, if you overclock, the computer will process more information in the same period of time, due to a longer clock cycle. The procedure is mainly used to extend the life of a computer. It's no secret that technologies are gradually being modernized, and computers no longer meet modern requirements. Thanks to overclocking, you can slightly postpone the purchase of a new PC.

What do you need to know before overclocking an Intel processor?

Overclocking an Intel Core processor must be done wisely, otherwise it is fraught with rapid failure of the processor or failure of its operation instantly. It is important to reach the maximum speed, but not exceed this limit. Each processor can be overclocked to a different maximum speed; this is often mentioned in the documentation or on the Internet. Usually you can get 5-15% more speed, there are also more significant increases, but it all depends on the model.

For overclocking, it is better to use special processors whose manufacturing technology requires an unlocked multiplier - this is the K-series.

Every active PC user has a desire to get the most out of a computer, and greed can lead to negative consequences. Today's processors, if given too much information, will simply skip certain clock cycles to control the temperature. Thus, before overclocking, you should take care of high-quality cooling.

It is important to consider that:

1. After overclocking, the processor will heat up more, you need to install a good cooling system in advance, passive options are not suitable;
2. Requires a significant amount of electricity. More operating time requires more power. It is necessary to calculate in advance whether your power supply will handle such work;
3. The device wears out faster as it works more;
4. When the processor speeds up, the RAM is also involved in the overclocking.

1. You must have a new BIOS version;
2. Make sure that the cooler on the CPU is working properly and is in good condition; it is better to install a more powerful one;

1. Check the processor heating in its current state at maximum load.

After all of the above, you can proceed to overclocking.

How to overclock an Intel Core 2, i3, i5, i7 processor using SetFSB?

The Intel SetFSB processor overclocking program makes it very easy to increase the processor clock frequency, and the procedure is carried out directly in Windows. The slider acts as a regulator. To change settings, a reboot is not required, everything is done instantly.

The advantage of the program is the large number of supported processor models, from outdated Intel Core 2 duo to advanced i7. Unfortunately, not all motherboards are able to work with the program, which prevents its use everywhere. On the website https://setfsb.ru you can find out whether your board model is among the supported ones.

When working with the program, you need to take precautions, and you should also find out the model of your clock generator. The information is contained on the PLL board itself or you will have to search for it on the Internet.

Overclocking procedure:

1. In the top line “Clock Generator” select your generator and click on “Get FSB”;

1. After loading the characteristics from the database, you will be shown the clock speed of the bus and processor now;
2. It is necessary to change the speed in small steps using the slider, moving it to the right and observing the behavior of the processor and cooler;

1. After the final selection, click “Set FSB”.

How to overclock an Intel i5 processor using CPUFSB?

There is another way to overclock an Intel Core i5 processor, although its principle is similar. CPUFSB is mostly used to accelerate i3, i5 and i7 family processors. The application is part of a comprehensive CPUCool utility for monitoring and increasing clock speed. The program works well with most motherboards.

The advantage over the previous utility is the presence of the Russian language, although the principle of influence is the same:

1. Select the manufacturer and model of the motherboard;

1. Provide information about the PLL chip model (also known as clock generator);
2. Click on “Take frequency”;
3. Gradually, in small steps, increase the frequency and monitor the behavior of the processor;
4. Finally, click on “Set frequency”.

Even if you did not save the settings, they will be applied until you restart the computer.

How to overclock an Intel Core processor using SoftFSB?

The last option, which allows you to overclock the Intel processor of a laptop, as well as a desktop computer. The main advantage over previous versions of the programs is that it is free to use. You don't have to buy or search for a pirated version. The disadvantage is the lack of support from the author, so it may not be suitable for new processors.

The operating principle is identical:

1. Specify the model of the motherboard and clock generator in the “FSB select” category and click on the “GET FSB” button;

Sooner or later, a moment comes when the computer processor no longer meets the system requirements of programs, and especially games. This problem, of course, can be solved by replacing outdated hardware, but not everyone can afford such a radical method. That is why many users increasingly prefer not to buy expensive components, but to so-called overclocking.

Fortunately, programs for overclocking a processor have been in the public domain for a long time. Moreover, now so many similar utilities have been released that an uninitiated user can simply get confused in them. To prevent this from happening to you, read this article. Here you will find a list of the most current programs for overclocking the processor and can use them to give your computer a second life.

A little theory

First, you need to understand what the essence of overclocking is and why it is not as dangerous as is commonly believed. The fact is that all processors by default operate at only 60-80% of their maximum power. With overclocking, you can overcome this limitation and achieve a noticeable increase in performance.

Of course, it is almost impossible to obtain the maximum possible increase in power at home and without proper knowledge. However, you can easily expect a 20-30% increase in performance, which in most cases will allow you to achieve acceptable FPS in modern games on a relatively outdated computer.

At the same time, by overclocking the processor through the program, you reduce the risk of burning something in your computer to a minimum. The main thing in this matter is to choose a utility specifically for your device, so pay special attention to this.

ASRock OC Tuner

This is a program for overclocking Intel processors, featuring a user-friendly interface and excellent functionality. It is important that ASRock OC Tuner has tools not only for overclocking, but also for monitoring the system status. Even if the processor temperature rises to a critical level, you can immediately notice it and take appropriate measures.

Another advantage of the program is its ease of use. To overclock, you just need to open the Overlocking tab and set the desired values ​​for the bus multiplier and processor frequency. After this, all you have to do is press the GO button and wait until the utility makes all the appropriate changes.

By the way, in ASRock OC Tuner you can not only increase processor performance, but also calibrate the PCIE bus frequency. This is done approximately according to the same principle.

SetFSB

This utility is suitable for owners of modern computers who want to squeeze even more power out of their machine. Therefore, SetFSB is simply an excellent program for overclocking other devices from the same series, the frequency of which is limited by default by the manufacturer. In addition, the utility is compatible with almost all modern motherboards, which makes it truly universal.

Another benefit of SetFSB is that any changes you make will be reset when you restart your computer until you save them. This way, you can test the operation of the processor after overclocking and only then, making sure that it is functioning without failures, confirm the changes made. Simply put, even if you overdo it and your PC reboots, unable to withstand the increased load, all settings will be reset to factory settings.

MSI Control Center II

This utility is designed to monitor the status and configure chipsets manufactured by MSI. You can use this program to overclock the processor installed on the motherboard of this company.

The application interface is divided into two categories: Overclocking and Green Power. As you might guess, it is the first one that is intended for overclocking. Here you can not only change the processor frequency, but also change the voltage supplied to it, thereby increasing the stability of operation at maximum loads. In addition, in the same menu you can see the current temperature of various components of your PC, find out the rotation speed of coolers and calibrate

As for the Green Power section, it is monitoring the efficiency of energy consumption. There are also various options that allow, for example, to turn off the LED indicators on the motherboard.

By the way, if you don’t want to bother with manually overclocking the processor (and the entire system as a whole), you can use one of the preset operating modes of MSI Control Center II. Just select one of them (Default, Cooling, Game or Cinema), and the program itself will make all the necessary changes.

CPUFSB

CPUFSB is a program for overclocking a processor in Russian, which immediately sets it apart from many competitors. The utility is designed to work with devices manufactured by Intel and allows you not only to increase their frequency, but also to save several modes for different situations, and then switch between them. As with SetFSB (and many other applications), any changes you make will be reset when you reboot the system until you finally approve them.

Also, the advantages of the program include support for even the most exotic motherboards. If no other utility can work with your chipset, then you should definitely try overclocking using CPUFSB.

The disadvantage of the program is the need to manually enter the PLL of your processor. Of course, you can preview this information in a third-party application or even disassemble the system unit and read the value on the sticker, but all this is not very convenient.

ASUS TurboV EVO

An application similar in its functions to MSI Control Center II, but for chipsets from ASUS. As you probably guessed, ASUS TurboV EVO is also a processor overclocking program with an excellent set of additional features.

Essentially, the utility gives you access to BIOS settings directly from your desktop. At the same time, all options that in one way or another can harm the performance of the computer are carefully hidden, which allows you to use the program without unnecessary risk, even without specific knowledge.

An interesting feature of ASUS TurboV EVO is the ability to adjust not only the overall frequency of the processor as a whole, but also perform the same operation for each core. Not to say that there is a serious need for this, but still sometimes such a function can come in handy.

Again, like MSI Control Center II, the ASUS program has an automatic overclocking function. With the press of one button, you can select the ideal timings and voltage for your processor, thereby increasing its frequency.

SoftFSB

And this utility is suitable for the “lucky” owners of very outdated computers. You can easily use this program to overclock a Pentium processor or other antique devices.

The SoftFSB interface is very modest. Here you will not find a temperature sensor, cooler monitoring, or any other bells and whistles. But the program copes quite well with its main task, that is, it allows you to overclock the processor to higher frequencies.

Now about the cons. SoftFSB is a very old utility, so it is highly likely that it will not work properly with modern hardware and the latest versions of operating systems. Moreover, the developers have long stopped releasing updates for their brainchild, so don’t expect anything to change for the better in the future. Thus, the application can be recommended only to owners of rare computers and to no one except them.

AMD OverDrive

As you can tell by its name, AMD OverDrive is a program for overclocking AMD processors. The most interesting thing about it is that you can independently choose your level of overclocking awareness and thus gain access to a different set of settings. For example, inexperienced users will only be able to monitor the state of the system, while professionals will have the ability to change the bus frequency and clock multiplier.

In addition, the program allows you to test an overclocked processor. This feature, combined with different access levels, reduces the risk of harming the operation of the computer to a minimum.

ClockGen

A small but very useful program for overclocking AMD processors. Despite the simple interface, the utility allows you to perform overclocking, as well as monitor the state of a computer operating at higher frequencies. In addition, the application practically does not load the system and takes up very little space on the hard drive.

Unfortunately, ClockGen does not support the Russian language, but this is by no means the worst thing. Much worse is that the developers have stopped supporting the program, which means it will not work properly on modern computers.

Overclocking without a program

It’s worth saying a few words about overclocking using the BIOS. Of course, this method is not as convenient as the software one, but it is still worthy of a little mention. Overclocking the processor through the BIOS is carried out by changing the bus multiplier, as well as the value of the supplied voltage. The problem is that these options are not open on all devices and not in all BIOS versions.

Another disadvantage of this method is that you will have to increase the processor frequency in small steps. Each time, after increasing performance a little, you should restart the computer and wait until the operating system fully starts. As soon as a blue screen appears instead of the usual Windows icon, you will have to go to the settings and return the frequency to the previous step. In general, it’s still a hassle.

Be aware of the risks

Despite the fact that processor overclocking utilities make the overclocking process as safe as possible, you should still not forget about the risks associated with this procedure. Here are some tips to help you avoid burning your computer:

• Use only applications that are compatible with your computer. If the description states that this program is for overclocking an Intel processor, do not try to make it work with an AMD device.
• If the utility you choose does not have a temperature monitoring tool, then you should use a third-party program for this purpose. For example, CPU-Z will do an excellent job with this task.
• Don't panic if something goes wrong and the computer reboots itself. Just reset the settings and everything will be normal again.

Also, do not forget to periodically check the temperature of the overclocked processor. It is best to do this under load in games or demanding programs.

Overclocking the central processor is a forced increase in clock frequency. Increasing the clock speed, in turn, increases the processor's performance. Thus, you can get rid of unnecessary expenses on purchasing a new processor. And, nevertheless, it is worth understanding that the laws of physics cannot be outwitted! Overclocking entails an increase in power consumption, processor wear and increased heat generation.

What measures need to be taken before overclocking?

Each processor has its own limit for increasing the clock frequency; exceeding it will lead to failure. If we talk about Intel processors of the popular Core i3, i5, i7 series, they can be overclocked by a maximum of 15 percent. K-series processors are the best overclocked, but only with an unlocked multiplier.

In addition, it is worth knowing that after passing a certain temperature threshold, the overclocked processor begins to skip clock cycles, which reduces performance. It follows from this that you will have to check and, if necessary, improve the cooling system and, possibly, replace the power supply. Therefore, it is better to calculate all costs in advance; it may be more profitable to simply replace the processor.

Before overclocking, you need to check:

• BIOS version, it must be the latest;
• reliability of the cooling system;
• availability of overclocking software;
• test the processor, for example, using the S&M utility ( download).

Programs for overclocking Intel processors

SetFSB - download

The main advantage of the program is that overclocking can be done on the fly by moving the sliders. After changing the clock frequency, you do not need to restart your computer. Using the utility, you can overclock both outdated and new processor models.

The program does not support all motherboards; you can find out which models are supported on the program’s official website. Of course, if you do not consider yourself an advanced user, it is better to forget about this matter.

After launching the program, in the Clock Generator menu you need to select the model of the clocker installed on your motherboard. Next, click the Get FSB button; the window that opens will display the current frequency of the system bus (FSB) and processor. Carefully move the window slider in as small steps as possible, checking the current processor temperature. Having selected the optimal clock frequency, you can press the Set FSB key.

The disadvantage, or perhaps the advantage, of SetFSB is that the settings are saved until the computer is rebooted. You will have to overclock the processor every time you start Windows.

CPUFSB - download

This program is best at overclocking processors. Intel Core i5, i7. It works with a variety of motherboards, there is a Russian version, and the interface is as simple as possible.

In the main menu you need to select the motherboard manufacturer and chipset model. The next step is to click the “Take frequency” button, after which the current processor clock frequency will be displayed. The clock speed increases in small steps, but this must be done carefully. As in the previous application, overclocking persists until the system is rebooted.

SoftFSB - download for free

Another handy app for increasing clock speed on the fly. It also supports most famous motherboards. True, unlike the two previous programs, this one is free. The main disadvantage of the utility is that it is no longer supported; therefore, it will not work with new hardware.

In the FSB select menu, you must specify the model of the board and clock generator. Next, you should press the GET FSB button to capture the current clock frequency. The frequency also increases with the help of sliders.

All of the above programs are easy to use. Of course, advanced users overclock the processor in the BIOS, but this requires knowledge and patience - you need to restart the computer every time after making changes. All three programs allow you to overclock Intel processors on any computer, but if you have a laptop, you should be careful not to increase the frequency to the maximum values.