The Maximus Formula Thread - Help/OCing/Guide/Rampage conversion

[aicjofs]

That Asus supllied fan is somewhat useless although I use it too, but I add a 80mm fan onto the water block mounting posts and it sits right above the NB.

Here is a pic of my everyday, ghetto, write in the forums, folding at home, Maximus NB cooling with 80mm. Then of course my more professional looking build of Maximus SE with it's built in NB cooling.

http://home.comcast.net/~aicjofs/nb.jpg



http://home.comcast.net/~aicjofs/SideFullOpenSQ.jpg

[aicjofs]

haven't been here in quite some time... just wondering if anybody has hit the 4.0 (Q6600) mark with stability? i'll post up the same old 3.915 that i've had for awhile but never seems to make it to the main page lol.

also, what's up with the rampage bios mod? can anybody point me in the right direction to the upgrades it provides? thanks!!








:D

Someone posted 4Ghz q6600 stable settings a few pages back(maybe a week ago or so).

To me all the Rampage BIOS provides is direct PL(Trd) control and direct pull in control, or at least the main features I want and use.

[HDPC]

Hi,

Running Prime95 small FFTs test, one of the thread failed. This is what is in the result.txt.

FATAL ERROR: Rounding was 0.5, expected less than 0.4
Hardware failure detected, consult stress.txt file.

What does that mean?

-hdpc

[shimmishim]

Hi,

Running Prime95 small FFTs test, one of the thread failed. This is what is in the result.txt.

FATAL ERROR: Rounding was 0.5, expected less than 0.4
Hardware failure detected, consult stress.txt file.

What does that mean?

-hdpc

one of your cores needs more voltage. increase your vcore a tiny bit

[HDPC]

one of your cores needs more voltage. increase your vcore a tiny bit

thanks

[Guacamole]

Can anyone tell me exactly how to adjust the performance levels for memory bandwith?? I figure I can adjust it through memset or the bios through strong enabled o,1,2,3 etc. what is the best way to tweak the memory and get the most performance out of this board?? I really need some advice here if anyone can help?? Thanks in advance...

[aicjofs]

Can anyone tell me exactly how to adjust the performance levels for memory bandwith?? I figure I can adjust it through memset or the bios through strong enabled o,1,2,3 etc. what is the best way to tweak the memory and get the most performance out of this board?? I really need some advice here if anyone can help?? Thanks in advance...

Well the simple way is while just leaving your system where it is overclocked currently just simply keep setting the next PL lower in Memset until system lock ups, and then set the next one higher in BIOS.

However I recommend a more refined approach I'd read both of these articles. One will explain formula BIOS and other Rampage, either way both need to be absorbed for working with PL.

For Formula BIOS:

http://www.anandtech.com/mb/showdoc.aspx?i=3149&p=10

For Rampage BIOS:

http://www.anandtech.com/mb/showdoc.aspx?i=3208&p=3

once you have a grasp on that you can use the OCZ calculator for figuring what will even be possible.

http://www.ocztechnologyforum.com/forum/showthread.php?p=260320#post260320

From there it's trial and error. You can go for low fsb, low trd and tight timings, or super high FSB, best PL, and higest memory speed and figure out which works best for your system. There is an optimum for sure but it's simply too hard to answer not knowing anyting about your other components.

[Guacamole]

Thanks a lot I will begin reading and start the journey now at least I have a place to start... Much appreciated..

[OVERK|LL]

I think I need my water cooling sooner, rather than later now :D

Just ran Prime, she gets a bit warm, but no errors.

I changed AI Booster to Moderate from Auto, and picked up a solid (repeatable) 60MB/sec from my RAM.

So, new speed from RAM:
http://www.darkfibrecommunications.com/photos/cachememrampage1.png

And Prime:
http://www.darkfibrecommunications.com/photos/prime95.JPG


SO, if I use a heater core, what do you guys recommend for a pump, plumbing, cooler block...etc for this board and case?

[aicjofs]

Thanks a lot I will begin reading and start the journey now at least I have a place to start... Much appreciated..


np. :)

I linked into the middle of the article but there is more then one page of Trd discussion so look around. I like the articles because they are somewhat techincal but not over the top.

@OVER

Good job. You could probably be getting in the 9000's if you lowered the multi and upped the FSB, of course this will require some more voltage and heat at the NB, but feel free to try it if you want to keep tweaking.

As for the liquid cooling question...probably best to ask in the water cooling section. You'll get better answers and not tangent this already huge thread. LOL! :D My quick and safe answer would be probably an Apogee GTX(although alot of people don't like the alum top) or a DTek fuzion v1 or v2. Probably a Laing D5 based pump, maybe a DDC with custom top, and I still like 7/16 ID tubing over 1/2 fittings, type of tubing depends on if you want clear tubing, how long you want it to stay clear and bends you'll need.

[OVERK|LL]

np. :)

I linked into the middle of the article but there is more then one page of Trd discussion so look around. I like the articles because they are somewhat techincal but not over the top.

@OVER

Good job. You could probably be getting in the 9000's if you lowered the multi and upped the FSB, of course this will require some more voltage and heat at the NB, but feel free to try it if you want to keep tweaking.

As for the liquid cooling question...probably best to ask in the water cooling section. You'll get better answers and not tangent this already huge thread. LOL! :D My quick and safe answer would be probably an Apogee GTX(although alot of people don't like the alum top) or a DTek fuzion v1 or v2. Probably a Laing D5 based pump, maybe a DDC with custom top, and I still like 7/16 ID tubing over 1/2 fittings, type of tubing depends on if you want clear tubing, how long you want it to stay clear and bends you'll need.

Great info! I'll look into that stuff!

[Grnfinger]

That Asus supllied fan is somewhat useless although I use it too, but I add a 80mm fan onto the water block mounting posts and it sits right above the NB.

Here is a pic of my everyday, ghetto, write in the forums, folding at home, Maximus NB cooling with 80mm. Then of course my more professional looking build of Maximus SE with it's built in NB cooling.

http://home.comcast.net/~aicjofs/nb.jpg



You need some cable management there:eek:

What case is that in the other photo, Cooler Master Cosmos?

[WaterFlex]

Guys! When Asus Maximus II Formula be announced? I want to buy it!!! Very much!!!

[Grnfinger]

Guys! When Asus Maximus II Formula be announced? I want to buy it!!! Very much!!!

I think its comming mid July, the cheaper P45 starts shipping next week in Canada.

[scottath]

To those who have removed the P5E Heatsink [northbridge]
Should i remove the "mat" like thing and put AS5 under, or leave the "mat" and put AS5 on also?

[TheSamurai]

if you're refering to the concrete/cement that they used as thermal paste... REMOVE IT!!!

[scottath]

Referring to this stuff:

http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a154/eastcoasthandle/Maximus%20Forumula/th_19d81b59.jpg (http://i11.photobucket.com/albums/a154/eastcoasthandle/Maximus%20Forumula/19d81b59.jpg)

[Grnfinger]

get yourself comfortable and start removing it, it will take awhile.
Nail polish remover will help alot.

[scottath]

Mine just peels right off.....
How can i measure temps on my board? [P5E - rampage bios] Do i need to solder something on?
Do the fan connectors [non soldered ones] work with the Rampage bios? Can someone check with a multimeter - don't have one

[Renegade5399]

Anyone else have their LCD poster crap out? Mine looks like a cheap wristwatch after you drop it in the sink.

Yes, but mine is intermittent. Sometimes it's OK and other times it looks crap like you describe.

[aicjofs]

You need some cable management there:eek:

What case is that in the other photo, Cooler Master Cosmos?


Oh man your going to knock me on the cable management. :p: I said it was my ghetto build. LOL.

The other case is a Silverstone TJ07. Really good case for all internal water cooling. Here is another TJ07 with 780i board I have been messing with the last 2 weeks. Really like the cases. Silverstone rep has been telling me that there is a new "TJ07 replacement" coming in July, don't know what it will look like though.

http://home.comcast.net/~aicjofs/bluesideopenSQ.jpg

If you notice I can do some cable management when I actually want to. LMAO. :ROTF:

[Grnfinger]

Oh man your going to knock me on the cable management. :p: I said it was my ghetto build. LOL.

The other case is a Silverstone TJ07. Really good case for all internal water cooling. Here is another TJ07 with 780i board I have been messing with the last 2 weeks. Really like the cases. Silverstone rep has been telling me that there is a new "TJ07 replacement" coming in July, don't know what it will look like though.

http://home.comcast.net/~aicjofs/bluesideopenSQ.jpg

If you notice I can do some cable management when I actually want to. LMAO. :ROTF:

I'm shopping for a case right now that will allow me to mount a PA120.3 internally.
I had to make a cable management comment after your cpu temp comment:rofl:
fair is fair:D

[TheSamurai]

Mine just peels right off.....
How can i measure temps on my board? [P5E - rampage bios] Do i need to solder something on?
Do the fan connectors [non soldered ones] work with the Rampage bios? Can someone check with a multimeter - don't have one

Core Temp for the CPU and PC Probe II for everything else.

[ShArKo]

Hi.........I need help people:

I just want to now if the Vcore is to much:

http://img403.imageshack.us/img403/1699/oc8400screen1bp4.th.jpg (http://img403.imageshack.us/my.php?image=oc8400screen1bp4.jpg)

I got a WC Swiftech ApexUltra for cooling my system.

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/1338/oc8400screen2em8.th.jpg (http://img525.imageshack.us/my.php?image=oc8400screen2em8.jpg)


I need to now if i can do something better than this.

Thank for the help :D

[scottath]

Core Temp for the CPU and PC Probe II for everything else.

CPU temps are fine [coretemp] but i'm looking for a way to measure the other temps - as the P5E dosent have sensors soldered onto it
ATM i am just using the good old finger test....

[TheSamurai]

oh, sorry about that scottath.

[ShArKo]

please peopleee........I need help :( :(

[scottath]

From my knowledge, 1.5v for a 45nm chip is on the higher side:
I think that cpu should need about 1.3 or 1.4v max for 4ghz
If that helps? - i have Q6600 so i'm just saying what i've read before

So can anyone give us a suggestion for my temps monitoring - without using my finger on my P5E board?
Also - anyone with a P5E and has a multimeter - can you see if the unsoldered fan mounts supply power anyhow - and if not - what about with the Rampage bios?

Thanks

[430]

Hi all,

if i have 2 pairs of Corsair Dominator.May i install HR-05 IFX / (SLI) on my NB??

or it will crash??

Thanks

[430]

Coming up :D

with a high end LSI raid card 8888ELP 512MB and Seagate 15K.5 :up:

[cuke2u]

I'm shopping for a case right now that will allow me to mount a PA120.3 internally.
I had to make a cable management comment after your cpu temp comment:rofl:
fair is fair:D

Hi, a Lian-Li A71 does it just fine...

http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e332/cuke2u/P8270008.jpg


http://i42.photobucket.com/albums/e332/cuke2u/P8270007.jpg

Chris

[HDPC]

Hi there again, :)

Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 9
FSB Frequency : 400
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 400
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: DDR2-800
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# Activate Time : 18
RAS# to RAS# Delay : AUTO
Row Refresh Cycle Time : AUTO
Write Recovery Time : AUTO
Read to Precharge Time : AUTO
Read to Write Delay (S/D) : AUTO
Write to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (D) : AUTO
DRAM Static Read Control: AUTO
Ai Clock Twister : AUTO
Transaction Booster : AUTO
CPU Voltage : 1.5
CPU PLL Voltage : 1.5
North Bridge Voltage : 1.55
DRAM Voltage : 2.1
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.40
South Bridge Voltage : 1.050
Loadline Calibration : ENABLED
CPU GTL Reference : 67x
North Bridge GTL Reference : 67x
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : DDR2_REF
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : DDR2_REF
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : DDR2_REF
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1.5
NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU Volt
Voltiminder LED :

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

Advanced CPU Configuration
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 9
C1E Support : Disabled
CPU TM Function : Disabled
Vanderpool Technology : Disabled
Execute Disable Bit : Disabled
Max CPUID Value Limit : Disabled

This what I have so far, but 4th or last thread failed in small FFTs failed in Prime95. I've tried to upping CPU Voltage and CPU PLL Voltage, but it still fails. Also running CoreTemp during this run, I see that the temperatures are:
Core 1: 75
Core 2: 75
Core 3: 67
Core 4: 67

I have air cooling, are those numbers too high. I got scared :p: and turn it off. Yes I am a chicken. LOL.

-hdpc

[Guacamole]

Hi there again, :)

Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 9
FSB Frequency : 400
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 400
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: DDR2-800
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# Activate Time : 18
RAS# to RAS# Delay : AUTO
Row Refresh Cycle Time : AUTO
Write Recovery Time : AUTO
Read to Precharge Time : AUTO
Read to Write Delay (S/D) : AUTO
Write to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (D) : AUTO
DRAM Static Read Control: AUTO
Ai Clock Twister : AUTO
Transaction Booster : AUTO
CPU Voltage : 1.5
CPU PLL Voltage : 1.5
North Bridge Voltage : 1.55
DRAM Voltage : 2.1
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.40
South Bridge Voltage : 1.050
Loadline Calibration : ENABLED
CPU GTL Reference : 67x
North Bridge GTL Reference : 67x
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : DDR2_REF
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : DDR2_REF
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : DDR2_REF
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1.5
NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU Volt
Voltiminder LED :

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

Advanced CPU Configuration
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 9
C1E Support : Disabled
CPU TM Function : Disabled
Vanderpool Technology : Disabled
Execute Disable Bit : Disabled
Max CPUID Value Limit : Disabled

This what I have so far, but 4th or last thread failed in small FFTs failed in Prime95. I've tried to upping CPU Voltage and CPU PLL Voltage, but it still fails. Also running CoreTemp during this run, I see that the temperatures are:
Core 1: 75
Core 2: 75
Core 3: 67
Core 4: 67

I have air cooling, are those numbers too high. I got scared :p: and turn it off. Yes I am a chicken. LOL.

-hdpc

YES those temps are too high you will kill that chip running it at 75 degrees.. The V-core at 1.5 is fine but the cooling is not... You need to rethink yor OC because if small FFT's are failing you still need more v-core and you are already maxed out temperature wise...

[HDPC]

YES those temps are too high you will kill that chip running it at 75 degrees.. The V-core at 1.5 is fine but the cooling is not... You need to rethink yor OC because if small FFT's are failing you still need more v-core and you are already maxed out temperature wise...

Thanks for the reply there Guacomole,

hmm....that is not good then. What about OC down to 3.2 GHz or 3.0 GHz?

What is a good core temperature for air cooling?

-hdpc

[Factotum]

HDPC
Same Problem. I stopped on 430*8 (http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showpost.php?p=3038477&postcount=5688) for aircooling

[HDPC]

HDPC
Same Problem. I stopped on 430*8 (http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showpost.php?p=3038477&postcount=5688) for aircooling

Thanks Factotum,

I am going to give that a try. If still to high, then I will go down to 3.2, etc.

-hdpc

[Factotum]

stable Vnb=1.51V for original cooling NB, Voltage for NB up - system finishing Prime wrong. In my room 22c (Minsk, Belorussia :) )

[HDPC]

Not for a quad m8

go here and read instructions for a quad and re apply

http://www.arcticsilver.com/ins_route_step2intelas5.html

I am definitely doing this wrong. :P

Going to give this link a try. Hopefully it drops a few.

-hdpc

[Grnfinger]

Hi, a Lian-Li A71 does it just fine...Chris

Thanks, nice looking case:up:

[Aurhinius]

Coming up :D

with a high end LSI raid card 8888ELP 512MB and Seagate 15K.5 :up:

Running an Adaptec 5405 in my Max Formula with 3 x Fujitsu MAX 73gb in raid 0.

might try raid 5 at some point because that is where the performance of this controller will really show.

[dragao]

Where do I find the recommendations of memory for this card?????

[HDPC]

Hi,

Any one having issue with making the CPU heatsink tightly tied down? Mine does not and it can move. What do you do to keep it tightly tied down?

-hdpc

[RichardA]

Hi I have been checking out this informative thread and have a question or two.

I have a Maximus Formula (not the se version) that I have been using for a couple of months now and am interested in overclocking it. I have a Thermalright Ultra 120 extreme and my cpu temps seem ok, but my nb and sb temps are in the 40-45c range so I wanted to see if i could drop them. Will it be harder to remove the nb/sb heatsinks and heatpipe now that I have used the board for months now ? Also has anyone used a Thermalright HR-05 SLI/IFX on the northbrige or southbridge ? Im curious if that will fit with the Ultra 120 extreme .

Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated.

[Grnfinger]

Hi,

Any one having issue with making the CPU heatsink tightly tied down? Mine does not and it can move. What do you do to keep it tightly tied down?

-hdpc

Make sure all 4 push pins are properly seated, I dont have that HS so I cannot say for sure, but the only issue would be the pins are not fully seated


Hi I have been checking out this informative thread and have a question or two.

I have a Maximus Formula (not the se version) that I have been using for a couple of months now and am interested in overclocking it. I have a Thermalright Ultra 120 extreme and my cpu temps seem ok, but my nb and sb temps are in the 40-45c range so I wanted to see if i could drop them. Will it be harder to remove the nb/sb heatsinks and heatpipe now that I have used the board for months now ? Also has anyone used a Thermalright HR-05 SLI/IFX on the northbrige or southbridge ? Im curious if that will fit with the Ultra 120 extreme .

Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated.

An old PII pu fan will fit rather nicely on your NB heatsink.
removing the NB block now will be a tad more difficult, but I would highly recommend it.
Alittle AS5 will improve your NB / SB temps

[HDPC]

Hi I have been checking out this informative thread and have a question or two.

I have a Maximus Formula (not the se version) that I have been using for a couple of months now and am interested in overclocking it. I have a Thermalright Ultra 120 extreme and my cpu temps seem ok, but my nb and sb temps are in the 40-45c range so I wanted to see if i could drop them. Will it be harder to remove the nb/sb heatsinks and heatpipe now that I have used the board for months now ? Also has anyone used a Thermalright HR-05 SLI/IFX on the northbrige or southbridge ? Im curious if that will fit with the Ultra 120 extreme .

Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated.

http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=52217

From what i can see on those pictures the HR-05 and Ultra should fit fine.

-hdpc

[HDPC]

Make sure all 4 push pins are properly seated, I dont have that HS so I cannot say for sure, but the only issue would be the pins are not fully seated



An old PII pu fan will fit rather nicely on your NB heatsink.
removing the NB block now will be a tad more difficult, but I would highly recommend it.
Alittle AS5 will improve your NB / SB temps

What is the best way to remove the NB/SB block? I will order the Thermalright HR-05/IX. I am planning to do it as well. :)

-hdpc

[Zucker2k]

Folks on the lookout for a Max Formula SE pm me. Thanks.

[Grnfinger]

Folks on the lookout for a Max Formula SE pm me. Thanks.

jumping ship?

I'm waiting for the Maximus II, there shipping the P5Q Pro now , so I hope the Maximus wont be to far behind.

[Zucker2k]

jumping ship?

I'm waiting for the Maximus II, there shipping the P5Q Pro now , so I hope the Maximus wont be to far behind.

Not really, prepping my budget for a 4870 :D

I don't know what the fuzz is about the P45s; they have their own problems; yes high fsb, but at very loose PL. If anyone is looking to upgrade, my personal recommendation is to get a "true" rampage.

[hotshot100]

Got my new CPU to replace my Q9450

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h98/hotshot100/Watercooling/Untitled.jpg

[Grnfinger]

Not really, prepping my budget for a 4870 :D

I don't know what the fuzz is about the P45s; they have their own problems; yes high fsb, but at very loose PL. If anyone is looking to upgrade, my personal recommendation is to get a "true" rampage.

I have been looking at that also.
Kinda torn atm, I have a Q6600, Q6700( in shipping) and a E8400, trying to find the best board to achive my highest clocks. I find the RF hack to limit my bandwidth some. I got better bandwidth with MF bios running a 65nm quad.

[OVERK|LL]

I have been looking at that also.
Kinda torn atm, I have a Q6600, Q6700( in shipping) and a E8400, trying to find the best board to achive my highest clocks. I find the RF hack to limit my bandwidth some. I got better bandwidth with MF bios running a 65nm quad.

Odd, because I've managed to get better bandwidth out of the RF conversion after playing with the settings extensively.

[Zucker2k]

I have been looking at that also.
Kinda torn atm, I have a Q6600, Q6700( in shipping) and a E8400, trying to find the best board to achive my highest clocks. I find the RF hack to limit my bandwidth some. I got better bandwidth with MF bios running a 65nm quad.

Get the RF, you won't regret it. Skip P45, when Nehalem drops we'll have no choice but to upgrade. ;)

[Grnfinger]

Get the RF, you won't regret it. Skip P45, when Nehalem drops we'll have no choice but to upgrade. ;)

You should be a PR guy for Asus, I'm thinking harder now on the Rampage.
Just got done reading your flamming post's on the q9450:ROTF:
A few got a little raw there. Anyways that is a nice stable clock you have on the Q9450, seems there might be a soloution to the fsb limit:up:

[masska]

Anybody heard when the Maximus II or the X58 will be out?

[ZenEffect]

I have been looking at that also.
Kinda torn atm, I have a Q6600, Q6700( in shipping) and a E8400, trying to find the best board to achive my highest clocks. I find the RF hack to limit my bandwidth some. I got better bandwidth with MF bios running a 65nm quad.

how many mobos do you have? im only up to 3...

[Zucker2k]

You should be a PR guy for Asus, I'm thinking harder now on the Rampage.
Just got done reading your flamming post's on the q9450:ROTF:
A few got a little raw there. Anyways that is a nice stable clock you have on the Q9450, seems there might be a soloution to the fsb limit:up:

Haha; I've had my fair share of dealing with rumor-mongers on this sweet forum. I have the Q9450 running at 8x482 fsb (3.856 Ghz) with 1.6v on the NB. I'm sure if I tried hard, I could take it to 8x500, but I gotta baby this little monster for the time being; plus my cpu sucks! Yikes!


how many mobos do you have? im only up to 3...The trick is to get them out the door as fast as they come in :up:

[ZenEffect]

Haha; I've had my fair share of dealing with rumor-mongers on this sweet forum. I have the Q9450 running at 8x482 fsb (3.856 Ghz) with 1.6v on the NB. I'm sure if I tried hard, I could take it to 8x500, but I gotta baby this little monster for the time being; plus my cpu sucks! Yikes!

The trick is to get them out the door as fast as they come in :up:

but i like to horde hardware :rofl:
really i need a new case, some ram... new psu... video card...
man, too much $$$ to be spent!

[Zucker2k]

but i like to horde hardware :rofl:
really i need a new case, some ram... new psu... video card...
man, too much $$$ to be spent!

In 1 month, everything that is currently on the market will become 2 years obsolete. Well, maybe except for my RF :D Seriously, the hardware releases is going to get insane starting from next week. Drool.

[cadaveca]

LoL. this board sitll needs a bios for 45nm quad and hynix 2gb dimms....

[ZenEffect]

In 1 month, everything that is currently on the market will become 2 years obsolete. Well, maybe except for my RF :D Seriously, the hardware releases is going to get insane starting from next week. Drool.

yea, the only things that dont go obsolete are psu and case and keyboard. im waiting till 4870 for my next video cards. im quite suprised my 2900pros have held out this long as far as being still competitive. i dont think my 3dmark06 is too shabby atm. mabye i should wait for 3870x2 price drop and pick up 2. i doubt even 2 4870's in crossfire could match that :D

too bad p45 has 8x 8x pcie... :shakes:

[Zucker2k]

yea, the only things that dont go obsolete are psu and case and keyboard. im waiting till 4870 for my next video cards. im quite suprised my 2900pros have held out this long as far as being still competitive. i dont think my 3dmark06 is too shabby atm. mabye i should wait for 3870x2 price drop and pick up 2. i doubt even 2 4870's in crossfire could match that :D

too bad p45 has 8x 8x pcie... :shakes:Another reason to consider x48 then.

[aussie-revhead]

What is bandwidth like on 8x pci-e2 ? Does that make a difference ? ie will it bottleneck a 4870x2 ? If not then it doesnt really matter right ?

:up:

[scottath]

What is bandwidth like on 8x pci-e2 ? Does that make a difference ? ie will it bottleneck a 4870x2 ? If not then it doesnt really matter right ?

:up:

1) It is the equivalent of a normal PCI-E 16x [as PCI-E 2.0 is twice the bandwidth than PCI-E]
2) No idea - and probably won't till the cards come out and are tested - but probably no still
3) Correct

[prime81]

Well here's my Formula S.E. flashed to the latest Rampage BIOS with my E8500. Keep in mind the CPU is the only thing watercooled, the mobo although its capable of watercooling is being cooled by one 120x38mm Delta.

4ghz 500 x 8(Daily setup)
http://www.its-inev.com/downloads/pics/temps_e8500.JPG
Superpi 4ghz
http://www.its-inev.com/downloads/pics/superpi.JPG
4.25ghz 500 x 8.5
http://www.its-inev.com/downloads/pics/4250_superpi.JPG
4.5ghz 500 x 9
http://www.its-inev.com/downloads/pics/4500_superpi.JPG
Everest with temps and cache performance
http://www.its-inev.com/downloads/pics/500fsbperf.JPG
And of course I couldn't resist 3dmark06@ 4.5ghz...19115 with 3870x2 @ stock speeds.
http://www.its-inev.com/downloads/pics/19115.JPG

[ZenEffect]

Another reason to consider x48 then.

thats why i have a dfi lt x48 tr2 ;)

[Nuckin_Futs]

haven't been here in quite some time... just wondering if anybody has hit the 4.0 (Q6600) mark with stability? i'll post up the same old 3.915 that i've had for awhile but never seems to make it to the main page lol.

also, what's up with the rampage bios mod? can anybody point me in the right direction to the upgrades it provides? thanks!!

:D PM me directly and I can share my previously posted profiles for that CPU on MF BETA BIOS v0903 & 1004 as well as MF official v0602 (worked best for mine).


I think I need my water cooling sooner, rather than later now :D

SO, if I use a heater core, what do you guys recommend for a pump, plumbing, cooler block...etc for this board and case?These work great for PC use and becaus they have such low flow restriction you can get away w/ low RPM fan (quiet) and moderate to low pnpm speed/flow.


To those who have removed the P5E Heatsink [northbridge]
Should i remove the "mat" like thing and put AS5 under, or leave the "mat" and put AS5 on also?I would also remove the chipset IHS as well for an added 2-3C cooler. PM me for more more detailed tips to quickly and safely remove the OEM goop w/ an ear swob and Barrymans Carburater cleaner.


What is the best way to remove the NB/SB block? I will order the Thermalright HR-05/IX. I am planning to do it as well. :)

-hdpcUse 99.9% alcohal in a spray can to drip into gap on any given side of chipset IHS & NB cooler block. carefully twist w/ a medium 1/4" slotted driver. You can heat w/ soldering iron tip to keep hot to the touch but not to burn. PM me for more in detail if need be. See above "quote and reply to remove & clean up.

[elvislee58]

any people can oc Q9450 on MF se over 437 FSB??
can post setting in here?

[Zucker2k]

I would also remove the chipset IHS as well for an added 2-3C cooler. :eek: Post a step-by-step guide.

[chawks2]

Here are my procs:



My 2nd fridge job was MUCH more successful. To be honest, the reason why I had the problems were because I was anxious and frustrated I couldnt remove the stock cooler quick enough. Didnt have a thought out process and you know what happens when no forethought is involved.

After taking my time and setting an 80m time period in the fridge, I was easily able to "pop/shift" the stock cooler off.

The key is the following:

1. Disconnect plastic pegs on all spots holding down the cooler
2. Place the mobo in the fridge in an anti-static bag for 80m
3. Using a flat-head screw driver, and the blue RAM slot as a fulcrum, _slowly_ pull the stock cooler from the mobo (you'll know when you are applying too much pressure to the RAM slot - it should just pop right off).


My next problem was everything appeared to post, but no video again. Thought I "defrosted" another board, but it ended up being the mobo had a REALLY old BIOS and needed to flash with an older 65nm before using a 45nm.

Will post pics and benchies when come back from vaca. Good luck to anyone who joins me!

[Nuckin_Futs]

:eek: Post a step-by-step guide.

Removing NB/SB integrated heat sink;

2 options, remove NB sink from IHS or remove IHS while still attached to sink. Not sure what is noted as easiest cause I did both pn several mobos and it's hit or miss which goes smoother. The obvious advantage of the removal of actual IHS off the chipset die is that you get the best of contack to the replaced cooler, wether it be OEM or aftermarket, any drop of temp is a "+".

Prepare; remove all plastic retention clips from back. Only one will stay in loose but at least free it from back (under mosfet cooler) Free SB section 1st as described below. make sure all the rest is free to allow the next step to go smoother.

Start w/ the method I describes much earlier for attempting to only remove heat sink, leaving IHS attached to chipset die. If for any reason it feels like its requiring too much effort, move on to carefully working at loosening and removing IHS from chipset die w/ heat sink still attached. (see below)

To help, I used a moderate heat soldering iron to heat my sink to just hot to the touch. Periodaccly, I dripped 99.7% alcohal into jiont where sink meets the IHS and IHS meets the die plate. for the most part, heat will soften the OEM thermal cement and allow alcohal to seap inbetween the IHS and sink 1st and you can gently work w/ a slotted screw driver of about 1/4" wide to sort of twist from base of die plate (the green plastic part) and under bottom of sink (the copper plate). Try from different sides to find the weakest and go from there. Once you see so much as any opening, hold and drop some alcohal into it and continue.

If the 1st method feels like it's taking too long then move to the IHS removal.

If you look down the mobo from front edge (RAM and SATA side), you will find a small indention at the fron fase of IHS. Usually this is often gooped over w/ cement so use a fine steel pick (size of tooth pick, I use my dental tools) to poke in the alcohal soaked area allowing the rest to fall in the opening. as it opens, try to work w/ mobo inverted upside down so alcohal loosens the IHS from the die as it is lithtly cemented from underneeth as well as lightly glued from edges where the IHS meets the plastic die plate (green part). now gently twist the entire heat sink as a unit (from SB and mosfet) over NB untill it begins to feel loose and wiggly. Add a few more drops of alcohal if need be to aid.

TIPS; If you are concerned of oops's, mask around chipset w/ painters tape and paper to reduce scratching by slip of tools.

To remove cemant and clean. I like to use Barrymans B-12 non residue brake cleaner in a spray to quickly soften and wipe away with cotton swab or ball. It drys fast so have plenty of wipes to remove desolved glue fast, repeat till gone, and finish final cleaning w/ above alcohal (99.7% as used for A/V head cleaning or tuner cleaner). This stuff is flamable so use outdoors and keep all electrical circuts OFF close to the work area. the high strength alcohal can be had at many electronis stores and even Frys has it in both open can or sray. Brake cleaner can be found many places such as Target, Wall-Mart and just about any automotive supply store.

Didn't mean to make this long but didn't wanna' miss anything either, but if you have any questions before going at it, PM me and or post reply.

And of corse as always, anything we do like this to our motherboards is all at our own risk so study carefully. Keep all removed parts in case of RMA, replace w/ any suitable thermal cement to return for whatever reason. They (ASUS) never hassled me yet.

[430]

Hi all,

if i have 2 pairs of Corsair Dominator.May i install HR-05 IFX / (SLI) on my NB??

or it will crash??

Thanks

did anyone had any idea about this?

[chawks2]

did anyone had any idea about this?

http://www.chawks2.com/images/Puter/CoolNQuiet.MRF.jpg

I have the HR05 on both the NB & SB. It comes really close to the outside RAM chips, but I think you would be fine. Dominators go straight up I dont believe their width is larger.

[Grnfinger]

I just ( for fun ) setup a Raid0 XP install, the raid drivers installed without issue, and XP installed without issues, when XP booted for the first time it crashed and will continue to crash even in safe mode.

Any ideas? oh if this matters I'm using a 32bit student XP issue, should I try a corp or oem version instead?

[ZenEffect]

I just ( for fun ) setup a Raid0 XP install, the raid drivers installed without issue, and XP installed without issues, when XP booted for the first time it crashed and will continue to crash even in safe mode.

Any ideas? oh if this matters I'm using a 32bit student XP issue, should I try a corp or oem version instead?

i would try the corporate version first before oem. honestly though, i have no experience w/ raid.

[Grnfinger]

Thanks m8
I will try a Corp release next and see if its just the copy I'm using.
Do you not run raid?, I doubt it has much bennifit with the drives I'm using

[Zucker2k]

Thanks m8
I will try a Corp release next and see if its just the copy I'm using.
Do you not run raid?, I doubt it has much bennifit with the drives I'm usingIt shouldn't make a difference as long as you inject the correct drivers/or F6 method. What drives are you using?

[ZenEffect]

Thanks m8
I will try a Corp release next and see if its just the copy I'm using.
Do you not run raid?, I doubt it has much bennifit with the drives I'm using

i dont use raid. only have 1 500gb hard drive and it works fast enough for me atm. if there is a huge difference in load times etc then i may consider switching later down the road.

[Grnfinger]

It shouldn't make a difference as long as you inject the correct drivers/or F6 method. What drives are you using?

I'm using

http://downloadcenter.intel.com/filter_results.aspx?strTypes=all&ProductID=2101&OSFullName=Windows*+XP+Professional&lang=eng&strOSs=44&submit=Go%21

[Nuckin_Futs]

I just ( for fun ) setup a Raid0 XP install, the raid drivers installed without issue, and XP installed without issues, when XP booted for the first time it crashed and will continue to crash even in safe mode.

Any ideas? oh if this matters I'm using a 32bit student XP issue, should I try a corp or oem version instead?As long as you have at least one SATA HDD to Intel SATA on ICH9R (wich is all on this mobo) and bIOS set to RIAD w/ boot ROM enabled, it is ready. Using f6 install, there is only 2 drivers, ax x86 (old 32bit) and x64 (64 bit modern). All versions of XP will utilize AHCI and or RAID Ready function


i dont use raid. only have 1 500gb hard drive and it works fast enough for me atm. if there is a huge difference in load times etc then i may consider switching later down the road.
YES, there is a noticable performance difference. Even for a single HDD in AHCI RAID Ready mode you get better read/write times w/ all the functions of full Intel AHCI as well as ability to migrate to Intel RAID later in XP. You must install in the same manner as outlined above, at least one HDD to ICH9R.

[mazda_626]

I am running 2x 36Gb raptors in raid 0.
the only problem i have found is the system crashes on startup IF i use the MF bios. it would only crash on boot and when restarting. from cold boot, things were fine.

Now i'm running the RF bios, i have absolutly no problems at all, computer doesnt crash on boot and i can restart without having to hard crash the system.

But incase i misunderstood you, is it when you are installing xp that the crash occurs or after xp is installed and the computer restarts?
if it's during the install, is a crash or an error that xp cant find the correct driver when doing the initial install of files (after the HDD format).

[ZenEffect]

As long as you have at least one SATA HDD to Intel SATA on ICH9R (wich is all on this mobo) and bIOS set to RIAD w/ boot ROM enabled, it is ready. Using f6 install, there is only 2 drivers, ax x86 (old 32bit) and x64 (64 bit modern). All versions of XP will utilize AHCI and or RAID Ready function


YES, there is a noticable performance difference. Even for a single HDD in AHCI RAID Ready mode you get better read/write times w/ all the functions of full Intel AHCI as well as ability to migrate to Intel RAID later in XP. You must install in the same manner as outlined above, at least one HDD to ICH9R.

thanks, i will give it a try when i get back home :)

[Grnfinger]

I am running 2x 36Gb raptors in raid 0.
the only problem i have found is the system crashes on startup IF i use the MF bios. it would only crash on boot and when restarting. from cold boot, things were fine.

Now i'm running the RF bios, i have absolutly no problems at all, computer doesnt crash on boot and i can restart without having to hard crash the system.

But incase i misunderstood you, is it when you are installing xp that the crash occurs or after xp is installed and the computer restarts?
if it's during the install, is a crash or an error that xp cant find the correct driver when doing the initial install of files (after the HDD format).

it crashes after the full install not during, the first boot into windows or even if I try to enter safe mode.
I have installed the raid drivers from the link posted above. I would assume they are the correct drivers.
I could try the ones posted on Asus site or the MF disk but thought the latest drivers would be the best route to take.

[Nuckin_Futs]

If you suspect something, use the ASUS drivers for safe compatable results. I only remember hearing of some driver compatability issues w/ certain newer Raptor, but old models worked fine.

Use the f6 install, and direct to floppy frive A w/ ASUS driver download or off CD/DVD, USB or internal (I don't think FDD emulated USB stick will work but if you do it let us know as this mobo can emulate USB as FDD so maybe XP can see it). DO NOT let XP use its included driver regardless of what is says.

[mazzy]

Hi,
Someone can help me about DDR2 Controller REF Voltage & Channel A & B Volt?
are they working at all ?
I've tried to set it to -10mv but the DDR Voltage is the same that before. I'm running RAM that need only 1.8v I've set The RAM Voltage to 1.8 into the BIOS but Everest/asus probe II report 1.888V.
is there a way to lower a little bit the DDR2 real Voltage ?
thanks.

[430]

http://www.chawks2.com/images/Puter/CoolNQuiet.MRF.jpg

I have the HR05 on both the NB & SB. It comes really close to the outside RAM chips, but I think you would be fine. Dominators go straight up I dont believe their width is larger.

Thank you very much :up:

[scottath]

Hi,
Someone can help me about DDR2 Controller REF Voltage & Channel A & B Volt?
are they working at all ?
I've tried to set it to -10mv but the DDR Voltage is the same that before. I'm running RAM that need only 1.8v I've set The RAM Voltage to 1.8 into the BIOS but Everest/asus probe II report 1.888V.
is there a way to lower a little bit the DDR2 real Voltage ?
thanks.

These boards overvolt by about 0.1v so getting 1.8v is proably not going to happen unfortunately for you.....but who in there right mind will run ram at their defaults - this is Xtreme Systems is it not.....
{not trying to have a go at you mazzy :up:]

[Wolf2000me]

I'm running a RAID-0 2xRaptor setup with XP 32bit. The F6 method worked just fine, although I did have one crash once at the first bootup. It was probably due to something else, it's been running flawless for the rest of the time for several months.

My first RAID attempt with this board didn't go that well but it turned out one of the two disks was writing corrupted data. The RAID bios detected that, I got 2 new raptor drives and it was all good to go.

[Grnfinger]

Thanks for the input guys, I will give it another go today.

[mazzy]

These boards overvolt by about 0.1v so getting 1.8v is proably not going to happen unfortunately for you.....but who in there right mind will run ram at their defaults - this is Xtreme Systems is it not.....
{not trying to have a go at you mazzy :up:]


Yes, but more Volt = more speed isn't always true, my RAM have Micron D9HNL chip that look like don't like to be juiced to push, so I'd like to experiment down to 1.8v, DDR2 Controller REF Voltage look like a way to change the reference voltage with a offset, so maybe settitng it at -10,20,30 I can get lower DRAM voltage but look like it's not working or the sensor Voltage is placed before the actual offset is applied, so maybe someone on extreme mode have checked the real voltage supplied at the dram with a voltmeter playing with the BIOS option and can enlighten me.

[Nuckin_Futs]

If overclocking in RAID, do give attention to the SB overvolts as well as maybe the use of PCIE OC. For up to 480FSB I use 110MHz PCIE and SB @ 1.104, & SB 1.5 @ 1.58 (actual)

It would be nice to finally hear some good info on the propper use of DDR GTL_Ref. I went over 8 months w/ not really bothering w/ it since I too, couldn't really see a notable change. Anybody? As for the 1.8v vdimm, I wouldn't bother, 1.9v in the 1st slots (closer to CPU) will be more then fine w/ even the cheapest of RAM. Anyways, as far as I can remember, all the better RAM for us enthusiast have alwayz run at least 0.05-0.1v over to maintain stability of performance.

[Grnfinger]

If overclocking in RAID, do give attention to the SB overvolts as well as maybe the use of PCIE OC. For up to 480FSB I use 110MHz PCIE and SB @ 1.104, & SB 1.5 @ 1.58 (actual)

It would be nice to finally hear some good info on the propper use of DDR GTL_Ref. I went over 8 months w/ not really bothering w/ it since I too, couldn't really see a notable change. Anybody? As for the 1.8v vdimm, I wouldn't bother, 1.9v in the 1st slots (closer to CPU) will be more then fine w/ even the cheapest of RAM. Anyways, as far as I can remember, all the better RAM for us enthusiast have alwayz run at least 0.05-0.1v over to maintain stability of performance.

I use GTL_Ref +10mv if I recall ( I'm not at home right now) I found it help'd eliminate the "det dram" on the older bios.
I never tried to compensate for the overvolt, by trying to undervolt it. + .8 ( my board) is very easy to compensate for.

As for my raid0 XP issue, I did another clean install using the original MF ( cd ) drivers and it booted without issue:up:

Very pleased and thanks for the advice

[ZenEffect]

well, my maximus died last night... watched a little whiff of smoke come up from the mosfet area

:clap:

RMA TIME!

[Nuckin_Futs]

well, my maximus died last night... watched a little whiff of smoke come up from the mosfet area

:clap:

RMA TIME!Sorry to hear! If you dont mind, can you share the details of the type of OC and components. I realize high end stuff can go out, I had it happen a few times, but I often find the average is usually due to BETA BIOS and or intence tweaking & or lack of good cooling, so just curious.

[ZenEffect]

Sorry to hear! If you dont mind, can you share the details of the type of OC and components. I realize high end stuff can go out, I had it happen a few times, but I often find the average is usually due to BETA BIOS and or intence tweaking & or lack of good cooling, so just curious.

believe it or not, it died @ stock settings. just one of those random things i guess.

[Nuckin_Futs]

Anybody else have issues w/ J-micron PATA controller dropping out every now and then? 2 times and in each profile as in sig. Do any new drivers help? Should I at leasty see the controller as a SCSI device or only as an ATIPI/IDE or such? I'm only using it for scratch drives in EIDE/PATA mode (no RAID) but I do need them to stay active during work. The driver for ATA/ATAPI is the basic old 2002 Microsoft. Is there anything since?


believe it or not, it died @ stock settings. just one of those random things i guess. Not good. Anywayz, do note this mobo overvolts so you may in fact be running a tad more of everything then you want or need. Although not enough to kill anything that I can see, but it does overvolt. The only danger is for your CPU n the area of PLL. This if in Auto, scales along w/ FSB so keep an eye on it. I found mine using 1.712 @ 485FSB but I only need 1.612.

Most important, when reading most the forums, try to confirm if they are providing actual volts as reported by CMOS because too many still insist on only providing the CMOS setting wich we all know is different from board to board and various profiles and CPUs.


Good luck on your RMA.

[Grnfinger]

well, my maximus died last night... watched a little whiff of smoke come up from the mosfet area

:clap:

RMA TIME!

Sorry to hear about your board.
Did you flash back to MF bios?
If you still have a RF bios on the board let us know how the rma works out.
If you have a SE board what are they offering as a replacement?
I was offerd a Maximus Exteme ( altho at the time I think the ppl here did not believe me) in Novemeber when I thought a rma was a comming, Kup solved my issue so I did not need to rma the board.

[ZenEffect]

Sorry to hear about your board.
Did you flash back to MF bios?
If you still have a RF bios on the board let us know how the rma works out.
If you have a SE board what are they offering as a replacement?
I was offerd a Maximus Exteme ( altho at the time I think the ppl here did not believe me) in Novemeber when I thought a rma was a comming, Kup solved my issue so I did not need to rma the board.

it has the rampage bios still on it, but my guess is they will rma no problem. :up:

i dont have the se version. i will keep you guys updated on the rma.

[Nuckin_Futs]

it has the rampage bios still on it, but my guess is they will rma no problem. :up:

i dont have the se version. i will keep you guys updated on the rma.
I thought you said everything was stock. That totally changes the story. So many things could have palyed a role in that. You're talking about using a BIOS (a BETA at that) written for one mobo to another. They are "alike", not "exact" or we would have BETAs of same version updated simotainiously for all 3 mobos. Not arguing why we do it, just pointing it out. I just think the risk of failure is masked by the praise of benchmark sores.

Anyways, do keeps us updated on the RAM then for sure, because I was under the impression ASUS considered this a void in Warrenty if they confirmed you modded it out of spec. We know they can tell, but the question is, will they bother to even look.

[ZenEffect]

I thought you said everything was stock. That totally changes the story. So many things could have palyed a role in that. You're talking about using a BIOS (a BETA at that) written for one mobo to another. They are "alike", not "exact" or we would have BETAs of same version updated simotainiously for all 3 mobos. Not arguing why we do it, just pointing it out. I just think the risk of failure is masked by the praise of benchmark sores.

Anyways, do keeps us updated on the RAM then for sure, because I was under the impression ASUS considered this a void in Warrenty if they confirmed you modded it out of spec. We know they can tell, but the question is, will they bother to even look.

thats what im betting on due to the failure rate of these things. sorry, i meant to say, all volts were default. the motherboard simply died for no apparent reason. honestly if they dont rma, i dont really care. its worth a shot though. looking @ p45 for high fsb dual core overclocking anyways. got the x48 for crossfire.

[Zucker2k]

Had to RMA my MF SE about a month ago after half a year of abuse. :hammer: Anyway, it had the RF bios 0403 on it. Asus replaced it no problems. I got back a MF SE Rev. 102G. So seems they have stock now. Took about two weeks though.

In other news, I popped the IHS off my RF this afternoon. Had to use a razor blade from a shaving stick; bent one end and cut underneath the front end of the ihs, then blew hot air directly unto the heatsink while lifting the front end through the tiny hole with a mini screw driver. It popped after about 30 seconds. I'm watercooling cpu, nb, and sb on the same loop. My idle temp at 1.65v for the nb is 33c, everest stability load for 7 minutes was 35c for the nb. Insane! 2c difference between idle and load.

[ZenEffect]

Had to RMA my MF SE about a month ago after half a year of abuse. :hammer: Anyway, it had the RF bios 0403 on it. Asus replaced it no problems. I got back a MF SE Rev. 102G. So seems they have stock now. Took about two weeks though.

In other news, I popped the IHS off my RF this afternoon. Had to use a razor blade from a shaving stick; bent one end and cut underneath the front end of the ihs, then blew hot air directly unto the heatsink while lifting the front end through the tiny hole with a mini screw driver. It popped after about 30 seconds. I'm watercooling cpu, nb, and sb on the same loop. My idle temp at 1.65v for the nb is 33c, everest stability load for 7 minutes was 35c for the nb. Insane! 2c difference between idle and load.

this is good news on both accounts! :D

[Zucker2k]

this is good news on both accounts! :D

So is this.... :D 8x490 PL8, 4x2GB G.Skills DDR2 1000s

[ZenEffect]

nice clock on that cpu :clap:
so did removing the ihs help your fsb? you gotta hit that magic 500!

[Zucker2k]

nice clock on that cpu :clap:
so did removing the ihs help your fsb? you gotta hit that magic 500!

This was actually prior to removing it. I've been trying that 500 but this chip sucks. Anyway the voltage on that OC was high since LLC was enabled. I was playing around with it enabled to see if infact it affected stability as some have stated in the RF thread.

[Nuckin_Futs]

Removing chipset IHS certainly reduces some temps. It will only help FSB if max temp is holding you back at current cooling performance level.

NOTE: If removing to replace OEM sink, do keep in mind the removed material differences (w/ IHS no longer there) and carefull when setting the 4 screws to keep it level. I would seat the actual NB and check to see the angle of the SB now and adjust if need be. I did have to barely, gently bend the pipe section of NB to SB to make it sit flush.

[Zucker2k]

Maximus is the new FSB King? http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?p=3067261#post3067261

[NLight95]

Is there a "special procedure" to flash back to a Maximus Formula BIOS from a Rampage BIOS on an MF board? For example, I'm currently running RF0403 and want to flash back to MF1201. Thanks...

[OVERK|LL]

Is there a "special procedure" to flash back to a Maximus Formula BIOS from a Rampage BIOS on an MF board? For example, I'm currently running RF0403 and want to flash back to MF1201. Thanks...

Same procedure you used to flash to rampage in the first place.

[cadaveca]

jsut do it the same way to go to rampage. I prefer 1201, myself.

[Nuckin_Futs]

jsut do it the same way to go to rampage. I prefer 1201, myself.Can you, or anybody confirm if v201 complies to ACPI S3 and S4 alike, but mainly S3 "Sleep"?

I am on BETA v1004 and it is OK to a point but I am recently getting more random DET_RAM issues on old resumes from S4. S3 has never worked for me on any profile since released (1004).

What improvements does 1201 have over 1004? More spacifically on a 65nm dual core w/ 2x 1g RAM?

[iTravis]

Guys, it's been awhile since the last time I went to this thread but anyway, I'm currently using 0907 and I recently have problem with the SCSI/RAID Host Controller, it seems I can't install the driver for this device and it keeps showing up everytime I boot into XP. Does the latest BIOS fix this problem and stable compare to others, what would be the best BIOS option now?

[OVERK|LL]

Is there a "special procedure" to flash back to a Maximus Formula BIOS from a Rampage BIOS on an MF board? For example, I'm currently running RF0403 and want to flash back to MF1201. Thanks...

Why do you want to flash back? I can't imagine being able to get the same memory bandwidth out of the Maximus BIOS that I am currently getting with the Rampage one.....

[Nuckin_Futs]

I realize most RF hacks are for benching scores, but has, or is, aanybody actually using an RF hacked BIOS as a daily user in full or partial ACPI modes to know if S3 & S4 actually work.
Really peepz, what can it actually cost? 1 minute, 1 crash and reboot? Anybody hacking a BIOS or just testing for that max OC should is used to more then a few crashes and reboots by now.

[OVERK|LL]

I realize most RF hacks are for benching scores, but has, or is, aanybody actually using an RF hacked BIOS as a daily user in full or partial ACPI modes to know if S3 & S4 actually work.
Really peepz, what can it actually cost? 1 minute, 1 crash and reboot? Anybody hacking a BIOS or just testing for that max OC should is used to more then a few crashes and reboots by now.

Mine isn't majorly overclocked (as you can see) but I am using the RF BIOS and it's my main computer. I have ZERO issues with it. I'm in Linux though, so I don't use S3 or S4. Sorry :(

[cadaveca]

give me a few minutes,Nucking F., I'll check it out for ya. I disable stand-by sleep modes in bios, so will ahve to enable, blah, blah, running VIsta 64 BTW.

[Nuckin_Futs]

Mine isn't majorly overclocked (as you can see) but I am using the RF BIOS and it's my main computer. I have ZERO issues with it. I'm in Linux though, so I don't use S3 or S4. Sorry :(
Interesting, I was wondering if anybody here OCd under Linux w/ this set up. How doe it perform, for daily stuff? are you using ICH9R in AHCI or RAID mode, so was it hard to locate the drivers to do a full install? I am curious, because I have Kubuntu x64 and was thinking of running a test bed to get to learn Linux as a 2nd OS.


give me a few minutes,Nucking F., I'll check it out for ya. I disable stand-by sleep modes in bios, so will ahve to enable, blah, blah, running VIsta 64 BTW.XP & VISTA are ACPI complient OS so you have to at the very least enable ACPI but after that, it doesn't matter about S1 or S3 not being set since Windowsa can override all that and still work. It is the BIOS at this point that must comply though. The only thing you can choose is if you want Vista to only enter S3 v/s S1 (Stand By/Sleep but fans on).

[theonlybabyface]

I realize most RF hacks are for benching scores, but has, or is, aanybody actually using an RF hacked BIOS as a daily user in full or partial ACPI modes to know if S3 & S4 actually work.
Really peepz, what can it actually cost? 1 minute, 1 crash and reboot? Anybody hacking a BIOS or just testing for that max OC should is used to more then a few crashes and reboots by now.

I use S3 on RF 0308 and it works perfectly. :)

[Guacamole]

My NB gets really hot and the system starts to shutter in games around 445 FSB with my E8400 just wondering if anyone knows how I can fix this issue???

[OVERK|LL]

Interesting, I was wondering if anybody here OCd under Linux w/ this set up. How doe it perform, for daily stuff? are you using ICH9R in AHCI or RAID mode, so was it hard to locate the drivers to do a full install? I am curious, because I have Kubuntu x64 and was thinking of running a test bed to get to learn Linux as a 2nd OS.

XP & VISTA are ACPI complient OS so you have to at the very least enable ACPI but after that, it doesn't matter about S1 or S3 not being set since Windowsa can override all that and still work. It is the BIOS at this point that must comply though. The only thing you can choose is if you want Vista to only enter S3 v/s S1 (Stand By/Sleep but fans on).

I am using it in RAID mode, but with no RAID. It also functioned well under AHCI, though I think the RAID mode is actually slightly faster.

This HDD with Gentoo on it is on it's 3rd different motherboard/CPU combo. I just make sure I compile support in the Kernel for all the extra stuff that is going to be on the new board before I do the switch and I have yet to have a problem. Unlike Windows, Linux doesn't have a hernia if you migrate hardware. It went from an 875 to a 945 to the X38 without issue.

Performance is stellar, FAR better than the P4 3.2 it replaced, but Linux's SMP support is spectacular so I kind of expected that.

I was having random lag issues with X, but that was related to an option in my xorg.conf file for the NVidia drivers and had nothing to do with the system. It has subsequently been rectified.

You should have no problems installing Kubuntu.

[cadaveca]

Interesting, I was wondering if anybody here OCd under Linux w/ this set up. How doe it perform, for daily stuff? are you using ICH9R in AHCI or RAID mode, so was it hard to locate the drivers to do a full install? I am curious, because I have Kubuntu x64 and was thinking of running a test bed to get to learn Linux as a 2nd OS.

XP & VISTA are ACPI complient OS so you have to at the very least enable ACPI but after that, it doesn't matter about S1 or S3 not being set since Windowsa can override all that and still work. It is the BIOS at this point that must comply though. The only thing you can choose is if you want Vista to only enter S3 v/s S1 (Stand By/Sleep but fans on).

STill a bios issue, cannot get proper post after S3 sleep. Seems VGA post fails, board is awaiting result from gpu, gets none, and hangs.

[TAOTAO161]

Hi all,

what are your opinion on the latest bios version of the maximus formula.
they are:

1. 1102 2008/05/15 update
OS DOS / All OS
Description Maximus Formula 1102 Bios
Fixed it can not enter the setup of some PCI-Express SATAII RAID Card

or the

2. Beta Version 1201 2008/05/04 update
OS DOS / All OS
Description Maximus Formula 1201 Bios
Improve Memory compatibility

at the moment i use 1004 and it's stable on 3.6 with my Q6600 and my OCZ PLATINUM REV 2.
their is a better version their, that worth the update ?

[eSp!s0]

1102 is the latest non-beta bios, 1201 is the latest bios and the latest beta bios.

[Zucker2k]

There's a new stability test tool out, it is very very very efficient for quick stability testing; took me a few reboots to tune in my oc to a new level of stability. It's called System Stability Tester. Grab it here:

32bit exe (http://downloads.sourceforge.net/systester/systester-1.0.0-win32.exe?modtime=1210884158&big_mirror=0)
32bit zip (http://downloads.sourceforge.net/systester/systester-1.0.0-win32.zip?modtime=1210884195&big_mirror=0)
64bit exe (http://downloads.sourceforge.net/systester/systester-1.0.0-win64.exe?modtime=1210884221&big_mirror=0)
64bit zip (http://downloads.sourceforge.net/systester/systester-1.0.0-win64.zip?modtime=1210884092&big_mirror=0)

There are Linux and other OS variants too.

Edit: Oh, this is better than OCCT, for ram.

[Factotum]

My final config for 4Gb:
http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/1303/pngab8.th.png (http://img73.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pngab8.png)

[hillywav]

btw all

i hav issue bout this MB

this mb wont post when i use A-data 1200+ Vitesta Extreme Edition PC9600, icant oc it.....
something wrong with this memory?

[By0T0xN]

My final config for 4Gb:
http://img73.imageshack.us/img73/1303/pngab8.th.png (http://img73.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pngab8.png)

Dang Facto, Is the temp on your MCH right? 68c. Isn't that a little high? Do you run those settings 24/7 or just benching?

[Factotum]

Is the temp on your MCH right? 68c.True, It's hot. But MAX TJ=92c for X38

Do you run those settings 24/7 or just benching?It's my 24/7 settings. Prime warms CPU and NB to maximum. In real tasks the temp less on 5-7c for CPU and 7-12c for NB.

[Grnfinger]

True, It's hot. But MAX TJ=92c for X38
It's my 24/7 settings. Prime warms CPU and NB to maximum. In real tasks the temp less on 5-7c for CPU and 7-12c for NB.

I would recommend you get some decent cooling for your NB 68c:shocked: is way to high for 24/7 use.
I was also shocked to see 4x1GB at 1200MHz but I see your not running a blend test there:down:

[By0T0xN]

My NB runs @ 53c w/ 1.61v under F@h. I have a shared fan on my ram and NB which helps with the higher volts on the NB. I might, if I ever have the time, try and redudce my NB voltage which I'm sure would help reduce temps. Hek, if I ever get the time I'd like to update the bios and try for a higher OC. I've only reached 3.4 under current settings without trying. Soon I'll give it a go and up the odds.

[Factotum]

I would recommend you get some decent cooling for your NBI live in Belarus. The closest Shop with watercooling systems in Germany :upset:
I see your not running a blend test there:down:Can You write more :shrug:

[Grnfinger]

actually yes my ram runs 1200MHz blend test stable NOT small fft's, if your not testing your ram it means nothing. I can bench my ram at 1275MHz is it stable NO, but it will bench. I can clock my chip to 4700MHz but again its not stable.
And I was making a temp comment beacuse its way to high for 24/7 use, your board will burn out imo. if your happy cooking breakfast on your board go right ahead to each there own, I preffer to get my rig as cool as posible not to see how high I can get my temps b4 my board dies, I guess eveyone has a different approach to overclocking
You toss that ram in a prime blend test and I bet it fails in under 1 min, OCCT and I bet it fails in under 30 seconds.

[Grnfinger]

My NB runs @ 53c w/ 1.61v under F@h. I have a shared fan on my ram and NB which helps with the higher volts on the NB. I might, if I ever have the time, try and redudce my NB voltage which I'm sure would help reduce temps. Hek, if I ever get the time I'd like to update the bios and try for a higher OC. I've only reached 3.4 under current settings without trying. Soon I'll give it a go and up the odds.

How is that Q6700 working for you, I have one it is shipping now. I hope to have for the weekend.
What is the max you have had it?
I'm really hoping I can get a 4.0GHz 24/7 cpu with decent volts.
If I get a dog its no big deal cause my son needs a new pc:up:

[zlojack]

I haven't seen too many Q6700s get to 4 GHz.

Mine did better than my previous Q6600 in that it needed 1.37v (or thereabouts, can't remember 100%) for 3.6GHz while my old Q6600 needed 1.45v

I found the 10 multi didn't really end up giving me any benefit. I suppose it all depends on your luck of the draw, Grnfinger.

[Factotum]

You toss that ram in a prime blend test and I bet it fails in under 1 min, OCCT and I bet it fails in under 30 seconds.Heh, In my screen prime blend test runing 50min and more :D

[Grnfinger]

I haven't seen too many Q6700s get to 4 GHz.

Mine did better than my previous Q6600 in that it needed 1.37v (or thereabouts, can't remember 100%) for 3.6GHz while my old Q6600 needed 1.45v

I found the 10 multi didn't really end up giving me any benefit. I suppose it all depends on your luck of the draw, Grnfinger.

Thanks for the info, I'll be satified with 3.8 I know 4.0 is a shot in the dark.
This is an older Q6700 not a recent batch, the VID is a nice 1.220 so with decent cooling I am crossing my fingers for 4.0GHz
I also have a 4GB G-Skill kit comming from newls1 so it will be interesting to see what it can do.


Heh, In my screen prime blend test runing 50min and more :D


Last time I checked prime blend test will put your ram usage to 100% NOT 49%

[Factotum]

Last time I checked prime blend test will put your ram usage to 100% NOT 49%for 2 gb blend use 100% RAM - true, but for 4Gb blend use only 49% - check it :D

[zlojack]

Thanks for the info, I'll be satified with 3.8 I know 4.0 is a shot in the dark.
This is an older Q6700 not a recent batch, the VID is a nice 1.220 so with decent cooling I am crossing my fingers for 4.0GHz
I also have a 4GB G-Skill kit comming from newls1 so it will be interesting to see what it can do.


Mine is L727B332 01/22/08 pack date VID 1.275 FYI

Got it at Canada Computers.

Sounds like yours might do better:up:

Good luck with it and I hope to see you with 4GHz!

[aicjofs]

Last time I checked prime blend test will put your ram usage to 100% NOT 49%

Maybe a 4GB 32bit OS thing with no 3GB switch maybe??

EDIT:nevermind I guess he answered that question.

Still not fully utilizing all the RAM either way...

[Grnfinger]

Mine is L727B332 01/22/08 pack date VID 1.275 FYI

Got it at Canada Computers.

Sounds like yours might do better:up:

Good luck with it and I hope to see you with 4GHz!

lol I shop at canada computers, very decent store.
Hmm looks like your VID is very close to mine, this is dissapointing.

@Factorum
I'm not trying to take away from your achivements, 4x1GB @ 1200MHz is rather impressive, I took me forever to get 2x1GB @1200MHz stable. I'm trying to state that if you test your ram at 100% I doubt its stable. I could be wrong and very well might be but at those timings and 4x1GB ????

[Factotum]

Grnfinger
Select Test? - i show screen

[wa-Nadoo]

Fаctotum - show OCCT for 4Gb@1200MHz PLS

[ZenEffect]

im rather interested in seeing this as well...

[Factotum]

now I test my config in OCCT 2.0.0.a - auto (mix 1hr) - OCCT use only 21% of RAM with work Opera and ICQ , it's bad test for stable. IMHO Prime blend is better for test RAM

[Factotum]

OCCT go to finish :)
http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/9382/pngli4.th.png (http://img165.imageshack.us/my.php?image=pngli4.png)

[zlojack]

Memtest86+ 8 hours or more.

That's how I test my RAM for stability. Then I run Prime blend as well.

[ArneAnd]

Help needed!
Ive been playing around with my system without getting it stable at 4.0
Everything is fine and dandy at 8x480, but at 8x500 I cant make it into XP.

My HW is as follows:
C2D E8400
Mushkin 4GB 2x2048 XP2-8500 5-5-5-15
Corsair 750W
Noctua NH-U12P 2x120mm
Maximus Formula bios 12.01


My BIOS is set like this:

Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 500
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 400
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: AUTO
DRAM Command Rate : AUTO
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 4
Row Refresh Cycle Time :55
Write Recovery Time : AUTO
Read to Precharge Time : AUTO

Read to Write Delay (S/D) :AUTO
Write to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (D) : AUTO
DRAM Static Read Control: AUTO
Ai Clock Twister : AUTO
Transaction Booster : ENABLE

CPU Voltage : 1,3250
CPU PLL Voltage : 1,52
North Bridge Voltage : 1,43
DRAM Voltage : 2,08
FSB Termination Voltage : 1,24
South Bridge Voltage : 1,05
Loadline Calibration : DISABLE
CPU GTL Reference : AUTO
North Bridge GTL Reference : AUTO
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : AUTO
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1,5

NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU VOlt
Voltiminder LED : ENABLE

CPU Spread Spectrum : AUTO
PCIE Spread Spectrum : AUTO

Advanced CPU Configuration
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
C1E Suppport : Disabled
CPU TM Function : Disabled
Vanderpool Technology : Disabled
Execute Disable Bit : Disabled
Max CPUID Value Limit : Disabled


USB Configuration
USB Functions: Enabled
Legacy USB Support : Disabled

[Factotum]

ArneAnd
test it:
DRAM Static Read Control: Disabled
Ai Clock Twister : Moderate
Transaction Booster : Auto
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : 0.63
North Bridge GTL Reference : 0.63
CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

[zlojack]

I found with 500 FSB and 4GB of Mushkin RAM I had to loosen timings quite a bit to get it to post. Try your RAM all on AUTO first and see if that gets you into Windows, then start bringing back the tighter timings.

[Eastcoasthandle]

Help needed!
Ive been playing around with my system without getting it stable at 4.0
Everything is fine and dandy at 8x480, but at 8x500 I cant make it into XP.

My HW is as follows:
C2D E8400
Mushkin 4GB 2x2048 XP2-8500 5-5-5-15
Corsair 750W
Noctua NH-U12P 2x120mm
Maximus Formula bios 12.01


My BIOS is set like this:

Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 500
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 400
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: AUTO
DRAM Command Rate : AUTO
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 4
Row Refresh Cycle Time :55
Write Recovery Time : AUTO
Read to Precharge Time : AUTO

Read to Write Delay (S/D) :AUTO
Write to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (D) : AUTO
DRAM Static Read Control: AUTO
Ai Clock Twister : AUTO
Transaction Booster : ENABLE

CPU Voltage : 1,3250
CPU PLL Voltage : 1,52
North Bridge Voltage : 1,43
DRAM Voltage : 2,08
FSB Termination Voltage : 1,24
South Bridge Voltage : 1,05
Loadline Calibration : DISABLE
CPU GTL Reference : AUTO
North Bridge GTL Reference : AUTO
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : AUTO
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1,5

NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU VOlt
Voltiminder LED : ENABLE

CPU Spread Spectrum : AUTO
PCIE Spread Spectrum : AUTO

Advanced CPU Configuration
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
C1E Suppport : Disabled
CPU TM Function : Disabled
Vanderpool Technology : Disabled
Execute Disable Bit : Disabled
Max CPUID Value Limit : Disabled


USB Configuration
USB Functions: Enabled
Legacy USB Support : Disabled



- Ratio CMOS Setting : 9
FSB Frequency : 450
DRAM Frequency: 1066 (if you are using 1066 ram)
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
RAS# to RAS# Delay : Auto (unless there is something odd that requires it)
Row Refresh Cycle Time :Auto (again unless there is something odd that requires 55)
Transaction Booster : Auto
CPU Voltage : 1.3500V
North Bridge Voltage : 1.59V
DRAM Voltage : check make/model from homepage to determine required voltage
FSB Termination Voltage : Auto
South Bridge Voltage : Auto
FSB Termination Voltage : Auto (for now)
Loadline Calibration : Auto (for now)
CPU Spread Spectrum : Disable
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disable

If this becomes rock stable then you can start reducing voltage on your cpu, northbridge, etc. But one at a time. I have found that the n/s bridge need some level of active cooling in order to OC without issue. To make a long story short you need fans on them to keep them cool. I have been able to use 40mm fans for them (using wood 1 1/2" wood screws). You can use Antec's cool spot fans if it's easier for you. But the key here is to keep the n/s bridge chipsets as cool as possible. Preferable below 40C.

[ArneAnd]

ArneAnd
test it:
DRAM Static Read Control: Disabled
Ai Clock Twister : Moderate
Transaction Booster : Auto
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : 0.63
North Bridge GTL Reference : 0.63
CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

Tried it, and it didnt do the trick. Gets me in to the desktop, but the its BSOD or freeze and reboot.

Upped the mem volt one notch but same happend again.....

[ArneAnd]

I found with 500 FSB and 4GB of Mushkin RAM I had to loosen timings quite a bit to get it to post. Try your RAM all on AUTO first and see if that gets you into Windows, then start bringing back the tighter timings.

Added zlojack's suggestions to the ones I got from Factotum and voilà I get inn.


Seems its the tRAS that needs to go to 18 and not 15 to boot.

Ill keep on playing some more...

Thanx guys:clap:

[Nuckin_Futs]

Look at the areas in BOLD i edited for you. Give them a try and let us know if you get any further or actually stable.

Look mainly into RAM, 4x1g or 2x 2g is a load on the NB, Also, limit use of performance boosters in beginning. Light or disable is best for stability.


Help needed!


Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 500
FSB Strap to North Bridge : AUTO This will default to 1:1
PCI-E Frequency: 105 up to 115 if your GPU can handle it is OK.
DRAM Frequency: AUTO
DRAM Command Rate : AUTO
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 18
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 4
Row Refresh Cycle Time :55 or 60
Write Recovery Time : AUTO
Read to Precharge Time : AUTO

Read to Write Delay (S/D) :AUTO
Write to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (S) : AUTO
Read to Read Delay (D) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (S) : AUTO
Write to Write Delay (D) : AUTO
DRAM Static Read Control: Disabled
Ai Clock Twister : Light
Transaction Booster : Disabled - relax 0

adjust volts as for actual reported;

CPU Voltage : 1,3250 (whateve you need for 4.5GHz
CPU PLL Voltage : 1,632
North Bridge Voltage : 1,504 upto 1.52 might be needed
DRAM Voltage : 2,08
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.45v
South Bridge Voltage : 1,104v
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : 63
North Bridge GTL Reference : 63
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : AUTO
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1,58v

NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU VOlt
Voltiminder LED : ENABLE

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

It is perfectly fine to Enabled TM plus C1 modes together after tweaked for daily use.

Advanced CPU Configuration
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
C1E Suppport : Disabled
CPU TM Function : Disabled
Vanderpool Technology : Disabled
Execute Disable Bit : Disabled
Max CPUID Value Limit : Disabled


USB Configuration
USB Functions: Enabled
Legacy USB Support : Disabled

Just try to keep NB cool and you should be fine, about just under 50c under (46c idle) loading is OK, less is better.


Good luck.

[Grnfinger]

Just got my new q6700

pop'd it in and when it boots I get the cpu init on the lcd poster, and the computer then cycles booting,
powers up for a few seconds and then shuts off, then powers up then off, over and over.
doubled checked the install, its 100%
Am I missing something or is the chip dead?



Never mind

Seems in my haste, it was operator error :shakes:

[Nuckin_Futs]

This happend to me when I removed a Q9450 to replace w/ 64nm E6750. I was on BETA BIOS v1004. Not sure what really solved it, but my BIOS just became buggy ever since the switch, yet whan on the Q9450 for over 2 months it was fine other then the limit of OC ability (CPU limit, not mobo).

I disconnected evrything except GPU, CPU, and 1 stick of RAM cause I was also now getting the DET_RAM bug and occassional CPU_Int message. It took several clear of CMOS and I even reflashed BIOS and it finally got half way back to normal, NO more CPU_Int but I randomly get the DET_RAM on cold wake up from S4 (S3 never works) but waiting a few seconds seems to warm it up so a reset kicks right back in to as normal and resumes just fine. This used to happened once in a blue moon on my BETA v0903 outfit.

I also had to do some basic manual OC profile settings to get her to boot stable and then fine tune. use the F1 to enter set up and make basic settings , save to profile and continue. at least you can keep going back on lock ups.

Not sure it's the same but hope it helps.

[Grnfinger]

I was really bumed at first, but I pop'd it out and back in and the bugger booted right up.
Cant get 3.8GHz, to bad my VID is a crappy 1.325.
I can however get a nice 450x8@1200ram ( priming now) with decent volts 1.50v actual and full load 58c, so I am happy with that.
I was hoping that the 10 multi would give me a 4.0GHz quad core 24/7 setting but I guess its not to be.
Seems I will have to sell a kidney and grab a QX for me to achive my goal. I am torn between a C2D or a Quad for my daily use, I love the bandwidth the wolfdale gives me, but I miss the raw power of a quad. Maybe I should go AMD:rofl:

In regards to your S3/S4 issue I have for the first time had S3 fail, OCCT was running and it would not recover from S3, black screen only, I had to reset to get the rig back, first time its ever happend, I will do some testing this weekend regarding S3/S4 and see what I can come up with for my settings and share my results.

[ShArKo]

I was really bumed at first, but I pop'd it out and back in and the bugger booted right up.
Cant get 3.8GHz, to bad my VID is a crappy 1.325.
I can however get a nice 450x8@1200ram ( priming now) with decent volts 1.50v actual and full load 58c, so I am happy with that.
I was hoping that the 10 multi would give me a 4.0GHz quad core 24/7 setting but I guess its not to be.
Seems I will have to sell a kidney and grab a QX for me to achive my goal. I am torn between a C2D or a Quad for my daily use, I love the bandwidth the wolfdale gives me, but I miss the raw power of a quad. Maybe I should go AMD:rofl:

In regards to your S3/S4 issue I have for the first time had S3 fail, OCCT was running and it would not recover from S3, black screen only, I had to reset to get the rig back, first time its ever happend, I will do some testing this weekend regarding S3/S4 and see what I can come up with for my settings and share my results.

please menn........answer my PM msj :(:(:(:(:( I need help with my Overclock :(

[Grnfinger]

please menn........answer my PM msj :(:(:(:(:( I need help with my Overclock :(

I'm doing up some settings now I'll pm you shortly, Sorry for the delay

We'll get that chip running right:up:

[ShArKo]

I'm doing up some settings now I'll pm you shortly, Sorry for the delay

We'll get that chip running right:up:

Thanks man........Im runing my PC in stock now :down::down:

this sucks.......I don´t like see my PC runing at 3GHZ (stock) I need at lees 4GHZ :p::p:

[zlojack]

I was really bumed at first, but I pop'd it out and back in and the bugger booted right up.
Cant get 3.8GHz, to bad my VID is a crappy 1.325.
I can however get a nice 450x8@1200ram ( priming now) with decent volts 1.50v actual and full load 58c, so I am happy with that.
I was hoping that the 10 multi would give me a 4.0GHz quad core 24/7 setting but I guess its not to be.
Seems I will have to sell a kidney and grab a QX for me to achive my goal. I am torn between a C2D or a Quad for my daily use, I love the bandwidth the wolfdale gives me, but I miss the raw power of a quad. Maybe I should go AMD:rofl:

In regards to your S3/S4 issue I have for the first time had S3 fail, OCCT was running and it would not recover from S3, black screen only, I had to reset to get the rig back, first time its ever happend, I will do some testing this weekend regarding S3/S4 and see what I can come up with for my settings and share my results.

I threw my Q6700 back in my rig tonight and I'm testing it out at 9x425 to see if it can handle it with decent volts and temps. If all goes well, my QX9650 might be for sale. (Not selling because I want to, selling because the CRA just sent me a bill for a large sum of money :mad: because they overpaid me on my tax return two years ago)

So far it's the Q6700 is going strong at 1.448 small fft at 3.825

[generics_user]

currently i'm in the market for a new CF capable board as my iX38 has some boot issues with 2 cards (every 3rd-4th boot the cards don'T init, fans stay at 100%, no image) but p45 seems to be a bit disappointing (see performance comparison p45/x48 crossfirt).

are there any real benefits of flashing the X48 bios and what is the difference between the maximus and the P5E???, what is the max FSB for 45nm dualcores and vdroop with these cpus???

BTW i use an E8400 which is kinda limited by my aircooling right now and i had no time to test it with my watercooling before disassembling it :shrug:


another question: how hot does this thing get ???

[Lestat]

guys i cant sit here and read thru 230+ pages.
are we still on 1201 bios ?

i am happy where i am so i dont really need to update the bios but just curous since an update hasnt come out in a while.

[Grnfinger]

guys i cant sit here and read thru 230+ pages.
are we still on 1201 bios ?

i am happy where i am so i dont really need to update the bios but just curous since an update hasnt come out in a while.

Yes 1201 is still the latest release

[Lamb]

Hey guys!

So I just updated my motherboard BIOS from ver.907 to ver.1201

And now the overclock settings I've been using won't work anymore, my comp just keep crashing :(

These we're the settings;



Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : AUTO
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 9
FSB Frequency : 423
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 333
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 846
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 3
Row Refresh Cycle Time : 50
Write Recovery Time : 6
Read to Precharge Time : 3

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (D) : Auto
DRAM Static Read Control: Disabled
Ai Clock Twister : Strong
Transaction Booster : Disabled
Relax level: 0


CPU Voltage : 1.38175
CPU PLL Voltage : AUTO
North Bridge Voltage : 1.49
DRAM Voltage : 2.20
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.40
South Bridge Voltage : 1.050
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : 0.63X
North Bridge GTL Reference : 0.67X
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : AUTO
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : DDR2-REFF
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1.5


Which settings I should go with to hit at the very least 3.6ghz :s

E8400 SLAPL FPO/BATCH # Q748A144

[ShawnTRD]

1201 only lasted on my computer for about 4 or 5 day. Then I have a corrupt CMOS, and had to restore from the retail cd. Back to 0907

[Lamb]

1201 only lasted on my computer for about 4 or 5 day. Then I have a corrupt CMOS, and had to restore from the retail cd. Back to 0907

How I do that?!

[erocker]

I was really bumed at first, but I pop'd it out and back in and the bugger booted right up.
Cant get 3.8GHz, to bad my VID is a crappy 1.325.
I can however get a nice 450x8@1200ram ( priming now) with decent volts 1.50v actual and full load 58c, so I am happy with that.
I was hoping that the 10 multi would give me a 4.0GHz quad core 24/7 setting but I guess its not to be.
Seems I will have to sell a kidney and grab a QX for me to achive my goal. I am torn between a C2D or a Quad for my daily use, I love the bandwidth the wolfdale gives me, but I miss the raw power of a quad. Maybe I should go AMD:rofl:

I too just gave a Q6700 a try. You almost seem to be one of the lucky ones with these newer batches. I guess there is a reason they are so cheap now...:down:

[arlak]

Hi I'm new to communicating on forums, so please feel free to inform me if I'm violating forum etiquitte.

I've been trying to get my system stable for some time now, and, while Windows boots fine, I get frequent BSOD's, mostly when resuming from sleep, but not limited to that. I have run the minidumps through windbg, and the BSOD's seem to be coming from myriad, unrelated sources. I have feared for a while that I am just really good at frying RAM with this board.

Therefore, since I just got my mushkin ram back from an RMA and I don't want to fry it again, I was wondering if someone could evaluate all of the BIOS options available to a maximus formula owner (401, 907, 1201, rampage conversion) because I have gotten mixed messages and want to pick the most stable bios out there.

I think centralizing this information could help a lot of people. thanks.

[Leeghoofd]

Arlak do you run Loadline calibration on or off ? if on up the vcore a bit and turn it off... this is the biggest source of all BSOD on these boards... secondly for ya ram be carefull as the board overvolts the ram dimms so for 2.0 volts plz set 1.92 or such...

[Grnfinger]

Hi I'm new to communicating on forums, so please feel free to inform me if I'm violating forum etiquitte.

I've been trying to get my system stable for some time now, and, while Windows boots fine, I get frequent BSOD's, mostly when resuming from sleep, but not limited to that. I have run the minidumps through windbg, and the BSOD's seem to be coming from myriad, unrelated sources. I have feared for a while that I am just really good at frying RAM with this board.

Therefore, since I just got my mushkin ram back from an RMA and I don't want to fry it again, I was wondering if someone could evaluate all of the BIOS options available to a maximus formula owner (401, 907, 1201, rampage conversion) because I have gotten mixed messages and want to pick the most stable bios out there.

I think centralizing this information could help a lot of people. thanks.


Curcial says that Dram Static Read Control should be disabled, the ram dosent like it.


I too just gave a Q6700 a try. You almost seem to be one of the lucky ones with these newer batches. I guess there is a reason they are so cheap now...:down:

I dont think this chip is going to stay. Its not bad but I'm not overly happy with it, I also just flashed back to a Maximus bios and I can say 1201 is a dog of a bios, WOW is it slow compared to RF 403. Going to flash back to a Rampage bios and retest the chip. I did however only require 1.48 volts for 450x8 on the Maximus bios tho compared to a 1.50 for the same clocks on the Rampage.

[Grnfinger]

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff267/Grnfinger/6700.png


BIOS 1201

Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : AUTO
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 450
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 333
PCI-E Frequency: 110
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 1080
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 3
Row Refresh Cycle Time : 35
Write Recovery Time : 6
Read to Precharge Time : 3

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : 8
Write to Read Delay (S) : 3
Write to Read Delay (D) : 5
Read to Read Delay (S) : 4
Read to Read Delay (D) : 6
Write to Write Delay (S) : 4
Write to Write Delay (D) : 6
DRAM Static Read Control: Enabled
Ai Clock Twister : Strong
Transaction Booster : Disabled
Relax level: 0


CPU Voltage : 1.49
CPU PLL Voltage : 1.50
North Bridge Voltage : 1.53
DRAM Voltage : 2.12
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.40
South Bridge Voltage : 1.050
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : 0.63X
North Bridge GTL Reference : 0.67X
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : DDR2-REFF
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : DDR2-REFF
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : DDR2-REFF
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1.5

[ShawnTRD]

How I do that?!

You can just flash back to 0907 with a USB Flash Drive. Put the 0907.bin file on the flash drive. Reboot and hit ALT F2 I beleave. Follow the directions from there.

[Lamb]

You can just flash back to 0907 with a USB Flash Drive. Put the 0907.bin file on the flash drive. Reboot and hit ALT F2 I beleave. Follow the directions from there.

AsusUpdate did all that for me without any problem ^.^! Just had to find there was an option to downgrade a BIOS,

thanks tho!

[Rattle]

1201 beta is garbage for me, this is only in beta form correct? I went back to 1102 and all is well, all mobo settings are stock, manually set lowest volts for everything and it takes my e3110 to 4.1 prime stable for 8 hours, my p35 wouldnt do it at 1.35 at 4050mhz.

I guess I willl fiddle some more, I got a hair across my ass to buy 2x4850's and I wanted a true X-fire mobo, i nailed this puppy for $140 shipped open box from mwave, it arrived with EVERYTHING, look brand new, static bag sealed and all.

[Grnfinger]

1201 beta is garbage for me, this is only in beta form correct? I went back to 1102 and all is well, all mobo settings are stock, manually set lowest volts for everything and it takes my e3110 to 4.1 prime stable for 8 hours, my p35 wouldnt do it at 1.35 at 4050mhz.

I guess I willl fiddle some more, I got a hair across my ass to buy 2x4850's and I wanted a true X-fire mobo, i nailed this puppy for $140 shipped open box from mwave, it arrived with EVERYTHING, look brand new, static bag sealed and all.

perhaps I will try that bios version, I was running Rampage bios for awhile so I have been away from Maximus bios since 1004 , the performance of this bios 1201 is crap imo, slow slow slow is all I can say for MF1201, stability is there or seems to be

[Rattle]

any tricks to running rampage bios? any benefits? the 1201 made me hugely unstable for whatever reason.

[Grnfinger]

1102 slight improvement

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff267/Grnfinger/test16700.png



any tricks to running rampage bios? any benefits? the 1201 made me hugely unstable for whatever reason.

Rampage allows for better ram sub timing and increased bandwidth, boot time is up and imo overall has a "faster" feel to it.
I would recommend trying it , little to no effort switching from one to the other

[Rattle]

guess I am gonna go for it :)

[Rattle]

well the rampage flash worked, sweet

thanks for this thread

[By0T0xN]

1102 slight improvement

http://i237.photobucket.com/albums/ff267/Grnfinger/test16700.png



Hey Grnfinger, I see a small increase in bandwidth and it lowered latency a tad. I also noticed you were able to lower your timings a notch. You deffinitly attribute this to 1102? Are you able to eek out a little more on your 6700?

My problem with my Q6700 is I have a hard time getting it stable above 3.4 @ 1.31v. I'm sure if I took the time (and maybe a little help from you ;) ) I could take it up to 3.6 like yours with some tweaking and a bios update (currently 907). But it just doesn't seem that these newer 6700 do 3.8 real easy. My VID is 1.27. Maybe you could give me a hand when I get a little extra time to frick with it?

[Vivi]

usually the native bios is best lol
im at 219, and there arent any issues

On the Asus website, if they say, "Memory capability enhanced".
this is what changes once you update the bios

Refresh Period (tREF) Goes from 16383T to a lower 3120T on your memory

This wil enhance memory BW by a littttle bit, but yea if you dont manually tweak your memory once you in windows updating should be fine

[Grnfinger]

Hey Grnfinger, I see a small increase in bandwidth and it lowered latency a tad. I also noticed you were able to lower your timings a notch. You deffinitly attribute this to 1102? Are you able to eek out a little more on your 6700?

My problem with my Q6700 is I have a hard time getting it stable above 3.4 @ 1.31v. I'm sure if I took the time (and maybe a little help from you ;) ) I could take it up to 3.6 like yours with some tweaking and a bios update (currently 907). But it just doesn't seem that these newer 6700 do 3.8 real easy. My VID is 1.27. Maybe you could give me a hand when I get a little extra time to frick with it?

1102 is faster imo, boot time is much faster as well. I can lower timing where 1201 I would get a det dram hang if I drop'd timings.

Post your current bios setup and we can see if adjustments can be made.
I can hit 9x425 but I'm not happy with the amount of vcore

[By0T0xN]

Will do, but probably not until tonight. Got to go to work now.

[Nuckin_Futs]

I know this is an extreme OC tread and most OC for the max scores. However, at some point, some of US, (especially ME) want a blend of good OC, yet stable timings. The reality is, those few score numbers do not warrent the the loss of stability when it comes to editing. I dont concider gaming as big a deal because afterall, it's just a game, and unlike that big movie edit or photo edit, you can't often go back to the same level.

So with this, who here can confirm a stable daily BIOS w/ complete ACPI support of S3/S4 of either MF or RF?

[Grnfinger]

I know this is an extreme OC tread and most OC for the max scores. However, at some point, some of US, (especially ME) want a blend of good OC, yet stable timings. The reality is, those few score numbers do not warrent the the loss of stability when it comes to editing. I dont concider gaming as big a deal because afterall, it's just a game, and unlike that big movie edit or photo edit, you can't often go back to the same level.

So with this, who here can confirm a stable daily BIOS w/ complete ACPI support of S3/S4 of either MF or RF?

I use my rig 24/7 capping , encoding, ect...
ALL my settings are stable. I use S3 only and I have only had the video resume hang once with OCCT, and it was due to a lock up from ram timing.
Seems I cant use 4-4-4-12

I have tried to get it to hang again but I cannot, only if I repeat the setup that made OCCT crash and that is the only app that hangs.

So I backed off the ram speed to 1080 , changed timing to compensate and now I can run my Q6700 at 450x8 with 1080 ram 5-4-4-12 and OCCT no longer hangs when the monitor goes to power save.

I am currently trying S4 and S3/S4 combo and see how they work.
I have returned to a Maximus bios, 1102. I found 1201 a huge pos.

I can say this, Rampage is a better bios hands down. Boot time is much faster and its a superior bios in all respects. From ram timing to overall stability.

[By0T0xN]

Here are my bios settings you asked for Grnfinger. Not much to it, which is probably some of my problem. Wouldn't mind running @ 3.6. Don't think my ram can go to much further with out upping the voltage at current settings. Would love a little help if you can spare the time. Thanks.





Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 425
FSB Strap to North Bridge : Auto
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 1133
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : Auto
Row Refresh Cycle Time : Auto
Write Recovery Time : Auto
Read to Precharge Time : Auto

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (D) : Auto
DRAM Static Read Control: Auto
Ai Clock Twister : Auto
Transaction Booster : Auto

CPU Voltage : 1.33125v
CPU PLL Voltage : Auto
North Bridge Voltage : Auto
DRAM Voltage : 2.12
FSB Termination Voltage : Auto
South Bridge Voltage : Auto
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : Auto
North Bridge GTL Reference : Auto
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : Auto
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : Auto
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : Auto
SB 1.5V Voltage : Auto

NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU VOlt
Voltiminder LED : Enabled

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

Advanced CPU Configuration
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
C1E Suppport : Disabled
CPU TM Function : Disabled
Vanderpool Technology : Disabled
Execute Disable Bit : Disabled
Max CPUID Value Limit : Disabled


USB Configuration
USB Functions: Enabled
Legacy USB Support : Enabled


http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/531/everestmembenchnk5.jpg

[Grnfinger]

Here are my bios settings you asked for Grnfinger. Not much to it, which is probably some of my problem. Wouldn't mind running @ 3.6. Don't think my ram can go to much further with out upping the voltage at current settings. Would love a little help if you can spare the time. Thanks.





Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 425
FSB Strap to North Bridge : Auto
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 1133
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : Auto
Row Refresh Cycle Time : Auto
Write Recovery Time : Auto
Read to Precharge Time : Auto

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (D) : Auto
DRAM Static Read Control: Auto
Ai Clock Twister : Auto
Transaction Booster : Auto

CPU Voltage : 1.33125v
CPU PLL Voltage : Auto
North Bridge Voltage : Auto
DRAM Voltage : 2.12
FSB Termination Voltage : Auto
South Bridge Voltage : Auto
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : Auto
North Bridge GTL Reference : Auto
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : Auto
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : Auto
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : Auto
SB 1.5V Voltage : Auto

NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU VOlt
Voltiminder LED : Enabled

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

Advanced CPU Configuration
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
C1E Suppport : Disabled
CPU TM Function : Disabled
Vanderpool Technology : Disabled
Execute Disable Bit : Disabled
Max CPUID Value Limit : Disabled


USB Configuration
USB Functions: Enabled
Legacy USB Support : Enabled


http://img241.imageshack.us/img241/531/everestmembenchnk5.jpg

WOW alot of auto settings there:D

Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 450
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 333
PCI-E Frequency: 110
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 1081
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 4
RAS# Precharge : 4
RAS# ActivateTime : 12
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 3
Row Refresh Cycle Time : 35
Write Recovery Time : 6
Read to Precharge Time : 3

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : 8
Write to Read Delay (S) : 3
Write to Read Delay (D) : 5
Read to Read Delay (S) : 4
Read to Read Delay (D) : 6
Write to Write Delay (S) : 4
Write to Write Delay (D) : 6
DRAM Static Read Control: Enabled
Ai Clock Twister : Stronger
Transaction Booster : Disabled
Relax level 0

CPU Voltage : Set what you need here 1.40?
CPU PLL Voltage : 1.50
North Bridge Voltage : 1.53
DRAM Voltage : 2.12
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.40
South Bridge Voltage : 1.050
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : 63x
North Bridge GTL Reference : 67x
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : DDR2-REFF
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : DDR2-REFF
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : DDR2-REFF
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1.50

NB LED Selection : NB Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU VOlt
Voltiminder LED : Enabled

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

[By0T0xN]

And you are suggesting Bios 1102? I'm @ 907 right now. Haven't changed it due to it being rock solid right now. I'm Prime stable 24hr and I'm running two SMP clients w/affinity changer and one GPU client as well 24/7 no issues since the gpu client came out on the 19th.

[Grnfinger]

try 907, if your happy with it then leave it alone

[By0T0xN]

like your thinking,.. thanks.

[zlojack]

I'm thinking about flashing to RF 0403...
Is it better than 0308?

[Grnfinger]

I'm thinking about flashing to RF 0403...
Is it better than 0308?

imo yes it is the best so far

[zlojack]

imo yes it is the best so far

Alright...here we go then.

[Talbo]

I'm trying to flash my maximus to rampage but keep getting a 'unable to open rom file' error.... Any ideas what I'm doing wrong?

[Talbo]

Tried both iRF0308.rom and iRAMPAGE-ASUS-Formula-0308.rom.....! WTF?

[jdrom]

I'm trying to flash my maximus to rampage but keep getting a 'unable to open rom file' error.... Any ideas what I'm doing wrong?
Make sure your using one of the provided AFUDOS programs on the first page of this thread. Also follow the instructions as well so you use the proper switches on AFUDOS.

I'd rename the ROM file to something shorter too like RF0308.ROM.

[Talbo]

I got it to work with RF0403, but memory bandwidth is actually worse than the MF0907 bios I had on earlier!!!

[zlojack]

I got it to work with RF0403, but memory bandwidth is actually worse than the MF0907 bios I had on earlier!!!

Usually initially it is. Now comes the real tweaking with all the extra memory options.

[OVERK|LL]

I got it to work with RF0403, but memory bandwidth is actually worse than the MF0907 bios I had on earlier!!!

I had the same problem. Start playing with the PL.

[LifeOnMars]

Hey guys and gals, first post on this forum and looking for help and advice. I want to use this board for my first ever build with an e8400, along with 2x HD4850's. I'll also be using two hard drives in a RAID 0 configuration. Can anyone summarize -

- What is good memory for overclocking with this board? I wanna hit 4ghz on my E8400 if possible.
- Does RAID 0 work well on this board and is it a relatively easy process for a first time builder?
- What are the temperatures like on the board and is 4ghz possible with good air cooling?
- Any specific air cooling devices that fit easily on this board, are effective and will not involve removing anything would be great

Finally, thankyou in advance for any help I get :)

[NLight95]

My E8500 temps seem to be a bit high whether I'm using my current Xigmatek S1283 or my Tuniq Tower (temps are actually about 1C higher on the TT). The temps were taken using Core Temp 0.99.

Ambient room temp = 23C
Idle temp = 56C
Load temp = 68-70C (prime blend)
vCore = 1.22v

My old Q6600 G0 ran cooler at 3600 than my 8500@3825. The only difference was the memory (I was using 4x1GB Ballistix Tracers with the Q6600). Nothing else has changed when testing--all the equipment is the same outside of the coolers. I'm even using a stronger fan than the stock 1283 unit.

Here are my BIOS settings:

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/IMG_1885.jpg

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/IMG_1886.jpg

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/IMG_1887.jpg

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/IMG_1888.jpg

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/IMG_1889.jpg

[Scyphe]

That doesn't sound right at all. What's the TjMax for your CPU? What temps do you get when you use Real Temp? I noticed that some other CPU utils listed my temps as 10 degrees higher than they actually are. Real Temp use the correct TjMax value to show the real temps on each core.

http://www.techpowerup.com/realtemp/

[LifeOnMars]

Hey guys and gals, first post on this forum and looking for help and advice. I want to use this board for my first ever build with an e8400, along with 2x HD4850's. I'll also be using two hard drives in a RAID 0 configuration. Can anyone summarize -

- What is good memory for overclocking with this board? I wanna hit 4ghz on my E8400 if possible.
- Does RAID 0 work well on this board and is it a relatively easy process for a first time builder?
- What are the temperatures like on the board and is 4ghz possible with good air cooling?
- Any specific air cooling devices that fit easily on this board, are effective and will not involve removing anything would be great

Finally, thankyou in advance for any help I get :)


Hey guys, any chance of getting some help and advice on the above..thanks.

[NLight95]

That doesn't sound right at all. What's the TjMax for your CPU? What temps do you get when you use Real Temp? I noticed that some other CPU utils listed my temps as 10 degrees higher than they actually are. Real Temp use the correct TjMax value to show the real temps on each core.

http://www.techpowerup.com/realtemp/

Core Temp shows the TjMax as 105C.

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/3825--CoreTemp.jpg


Here's what Real Temp shows:

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/3825--RealTemp.jpg

[NLight95]

- What is good memory for overclocking with this board? I wanna hit 4ghz on my E8400 if possible.
- Does RAID 0 work well on this board and is it a relatively easy process for a first time builder?
- What are the temperatures like on the board and is 4ghz possible with good air cooling?
- Any specific air cooling devices that fit easily on this board, are effective and will not involve removing anything would be great

Hey guys, any chance of getting some help and advice on the above..thanks.

I'm using the G.Skill 2x2GB PC2-8500 kit and running at 1081 MHz using only 2.00v. It's on sale at Newegg for $89.99, free shipping. I can tell you that Raid 0 works just fine. I have two separate striped arrays (see my sig). I can easily run 4GHz but OCCT crashes my E8500 because of high temp readings (something I'm still looking into as you can see by my posts).

As far as coolers go, the Tuniq Tower's a tight fit but entirely possible. My Xigmatex HDT-S1283 has a bit more clearance but I recommend attaching the fan after installing the heatsink on the CPU.

[Talbo]

I had the same problem. Start playing with the PL.

OK, started playing with PL and now I'm getting results :up:

[Scyphe]

Core Temp shows the TjMax as 105C.

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/3825--CoreTemp.jpg


Here's what Real Temp shows:

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h53/NLight95/3825--RealTemp.jpg

Hmm, after googling around a bit it seems E8200/E8400/E8500 all use a TjMax of 95c. That would mean your temps are shown 10 degrees higher than what they actually are. Seen posts about Real Temp having the correct TjMax as opposed to Core Temp. It does make sense because idling @ 56C with your setup is very very unlikely. When I first got my Wolfdale I experienced the same thing: "What the hell, idling at 48C". After some research here in the XS forum I learnt that most CPU temp utilities used the old 65nm TjMax values.

Source: http://forums.overclockers.com.au/showpost.php?p=8721528&postcount=2

[Grnfinger]

My E8500 temps seem to be a bit high whether I'm using my current Xigmatek S1283 or my Tuniq Tower (temps are actually about 1C higher on the TT). The temps were taken using Core Temp 0.99.

Ambient room temp = 23C
Idle temp = 56C
Load temp = 68-70C (prime blend)
vCore = 1.22v

My old Q6600 G0 ran cooler at 3600 than my 8500@3825. The only difference was the memory (I was using 4x1GB Ballistix Tracers with the Q6600). Nothing else has changed when testing--all the equipment is the same outside of the coolers. I'm even using a stronger fan than the stock 1283 unit.

Get PLL of auto,
FSBT 1.40 is the max for your chip, this board overvolts FSBT, I would lower that to 1.24 or there abouts.
to much FSBT is a 45nm killer.
Why do you have your NB volts so high?
You should set values for the rest of your bios options AUTO is not good imo.

[NLight95]

Get PLL of auto,
FSBT 1.40 is the max for your chip, this board overvolts FSBT, I would lower that to 1.24 or there abouts.
to much FSBT is a 45nm killer.
Why do you have your NB volts so high?
You should set values for the rest of your bios options AUTO is not good imo.

I've lowered the FSBT, though on AUTO (1.33v) it's well within spec. I'll have to tweak the NB voltage. I left it there because I was running my FSB up very high to see what the CPU could handle.

What overall settings would you recommend? Perhaps you can pm them to me.

[eSp!s0]

Hey guys and gals, first post on this forum and looking for help and advice. I want to use this board for my first ever build with an e8400, along with 2x HD4850's. I'll also be using two hard drives in a RAID 0 configuration. Can anyone summarize -

- What is good memory for overclocking with this board? I wanna hit 4ghz on my E8400 if possible.
- Does RAID 0 work well on this board and is it a relatively easy process for a first time builder?
- What are the temperatures like on the board and is 4ghz possible with good air cooling?
- Any specific air cooling devices that fit easily on this board, are effective and will not involve removing anything would be great

Finally, thankyou in advance for any help I get :)

- About the ram I can confirm what NLight95 said. I have the same ram and it`s running 1081 at 2,0V, too. The highest blend-test-stable clock I reached so far was 1111Mhz at 2,1V.
- Raid 0 is working fine for me with this board since I got it. I had 3 different HDDs in Raid 0 and the only problem I had was with the 2x Samsung F1 320GB. They would not be recogniced during post every boot, sometimes one of the two HDDs wouldn`t be recognized and I had to reboot and then everything was fine. But that :banana::banana::banana::banana:ed me up after a few weeks ;)
2x Samsung T166 and 2x WD AAKS had no any problems in Raid 0.

[Vivi]

light95. those temps look reallly wrong, have you checked that there is sufficiant airflow in your case? (i know it sounds stupid)
and that your cooler is properly Fitted, you can also remove the cooler and check if its not a fualty cooler with a concave bottom.
thats all i can think of :? i dont thnk its your settings

[strookeri]

I bought maximus formula, Q9450 and 4Gb Mushkin SP2-6400+ DDR2 800MHz (5-5-5-18)
First, I dont know should I flash to Rampage formula with 0403 bios or just update maximus formula bios 1102 or 1201 wich one do you prefer?
I want to OC Q9450 little, about 3.2GHz first, do I need to put some voltage or can i OC to 3.2GHz easy, just put 400FSB
I read that Maximus formula adds way too much voltage? Can i just put AUTO all or can i OC 3.2GHz with default voltages?

[Grnfinger]

I bought maximus formula, Q9450 and 4Gb Mushkin SP2-6400+ DDR2 800MHz (5-5-5-18)
First, I dont know should I flash to Rampage formula with 0403 bios or just update maximus formula bios 1102 or 1201 wich one do you prefer?
I want to OC Q9450 little, about 3.2GHz first, do I need to put some voltage or can i OC to 3.2GHz easy, just put 400FSB
I read that Maximus formula adds way too much voltage? Can i just put AUTO all or can i OC 3.2GHz with default voltages?

MF bios 1201 is crap STAY AWAY
1102 is rather decent and yeilds slightly better bandwidth than Rampage 403 bios.
I would recommend against setting AUTO values, if you search this thread you will find some q9450 settings you can try

[trt740]

MF bios 1201 is crap STAY AWAY
1102 is rather decent and yeilds slightly better bandwidth than Rampage 403 bios.
I would recommend against setting AUTO values, if you search this thread you will find some q9450 settings you can try

Hey GRN have a friend from TPU trying to flash his maximus can ya give him a hand pLease.

[Grnfinger]

Hey GRN have a friend from TPU trying to flash his maximus can ya give him a hand pLease.

Sure , I'll need a link

[ZenEffect]

Sure , I'll need a link

im going to try to flash the p5q-e to mfII tonight ;)

the dual bios makes this almost risk free. :p:
btw im still waiting on asus rma to get my maximus back :(

[Grnfinger]

im going to try to flash the p5q-e to mfII tonight ;)

the dual bios makes this almost risk free. :p:
btw im still waiting on asus rma to get my maximus back :(

Let me know how you make out

I'm shopping for a new board now, MFII is looking real good to me altho the Rampage Extreme almost made me mess my pants:shocked:
So I'm kinda undecided on what to do. If I can save a few bucks and get the same performance on a cheaper board then I will do it and spend the cash on a xfire setup. 2x3870x2 sounds good to me.

[trt740]

Sure , I'll need a link

it's cold storm on this thread http://forums.techpowerup.com/showth...=54058&page=23

[Zucker2k]

New Rampage bios 0406... gives more fsb... no issues reported so far. As usual, you flash at your own risk. http://kielbaski.com/pmp/MB/ASUS_X48_SERIES/RAMPAGE_FORMULA/RAMPAGE-ASUS-Formula-0406.zip

[arlak]

So I sat down today and decided it was time to OC my Q6600 to the big 3.6 GHz. i set the BIOS to 400 MHz FSB, made sure all my RAM settings were correct according to mushkin, and booted up. mobo posts everything as fine, but windows instantly BSOD's on startup. Any common causes of this problem? I was thinking it might be related to CPU voltage or the FSB strap, but i don't really know enough about them to be comfortable tweaking them on my own.

[golfjam]

I've lowered the FSBT, though on AUTO (1.33v) it's well within spec. I'll have to tweak the NB voltage. I left it there because I was running my FSB up very high to see what the CPU could handle.

What overall settings would you recommend? Perhaps you can pm them to me.

I have the same problem w/ my E8500. I can do 450x9.5 w/ 1.32v Prime stable but get temps of 38/76 idle /load. I've reseated my CPU, heatsink and checked if the surface was flat. I've tested my mobo w/ a e8400 and temps were way better. One thing I've noticed is E8500 has a vid of 1.165v instead of 1.125v like E8400.I've bought mine @ Newegg and it was OEM week Q817. It boots @ 465x9.5 but I don't want to overheat it anymore. I'm thinking about RMA but the problem is at stock temps are normal which means it's not defective, just OC's bad.

[ante_ante]

Anyone tried the new 0406 bios ???

[Overload]

I've lowered the FSBT, though on AUTO (1.33v) it's well within spec. I'll have to tweak the NB voltage. I left it there because I was running my FSB up very high to see what the CPU could handle.

What overall settings would you recommend? Perhaps you can pm them to me.

NLight, I had all sorts of trouble with the Rampage 0403 bios flash on my E8400 and Maximus Fornula. The temps were too high and I couldn't pass the OCCT test. I went back to 0401 and my temps went down and I have a good clock @4006 Mhz. The 0403 seems to work best with quads from what I read. I don't know about the new 0406 bios I just read about. I might try it soon.

[Zucker2k]

So I sat down today and decided it was time to OC my Q6600 to the big 3.6 GHz. i set the BIOS to 400 MHz FSB, made sure all my RAM settings were correct according to mushkin, and booted up. mobo posts everything as fine, but windows instantly BSOD's on startup. Any common causes of this problem? I was thinking it might be related to CPU voltage or the FSB strap, but i don't really know enough about them to be comfortable tweaking them on my own.

Post your bios settings.

[Factotum]

Anyone tried the new 0406 bios ??? bios 0406 is not compatible with raid-controller adaptec 3405. computer does not start, the inscription on the LCD poster CPU init, and all.

[crash2k]

hi guys,
i need an info about E8500 on Maximus Formula.

A friend bought an E8500 and tried it on the Maximus, when he put it on it was giving 50°C as CPU temperature both in the bios and on Asus Probe (idle temp). He checked if he placed a wrong amount of thermal paste on the cpu, but it was ok, tried to change kind of paste too (MX-2, Zalman) but the result was the same. He tried to check the core temps (with RealTemp and Coretemp with 95°C of TJMax) and they were lower than what Asus Probe was showing. He wrote to the shop's assistance and they told him it was because of the Maximus Formula's sensors, and that if he would RMA it they would send him the cpu back because of no problems in it. The previous owner had it on a P35 board (don't know which brand) but he said he didn't have this problem. Trying the Sensor Test in RealTemp the sensors seem to work fine both @default and in overclock, just the idle temp is a little bit high (expecially for a 45nm cpu with just 1.03volts), in the Bios and Asus Probe (and everest too, but just in the CPU temp, not in the cores).

so the question is: is it true that this depends on the Maximus Formula sensors as the shop said? or it's something about the cpu? need some reply from someone with E8x00 cpu on Maximus :) thanks in advance.


EDIT: reading in the previous page it seems that it's not just my friend's case... as someone else said, maybe what the shop said is true and maybe Asus Probe and Bios reports the temp with a TJmax of 105°C (65nm value)... and this is why the temps are reported so high.

[Grnfinger]

hi guys,
i need an info about E8500 on Maximus Formula.

A friend bought an E8500 and tried it on the Maximus, when he put it on it was giving 50°C as CPU temperature both in the bios and on Asus Probe (idle temp). He checked if he placed a wrong amount of thermal paste on the cpu, but it was ok, tried to change kind of paste too (MX-2, Zalman) but the result was the same. He tried to check the core temps (with RealTemp and Coretemp with 95°C of TJMax) and they were lower than what Asus Probe was showing. He wrote to the shop's assistance and they told him it was because of the Maximus Formula's sensors, and that if he would RMA it they would send him the cpu back because of no problems in it. The previous owner had it on a P35 board (don't know which brand) but he said he didn't have this problem. Trying the Sensor Test in RealTemp the sensors seem to work fine both @default and in overclock, just the idle temp is a little bit high (expecially for a 45nm cpu with just 1.03volts), in the Bios and Asus Probe (and everest too, but just in the CPU temp, not in the cores).

so the question is: is it true that this depends on the Maximus Formula sensors as the shop said? or it's something about the cpu? need some reply from someone with E8x00 cpu on Maximus :) thanks in advance.

Well now I have a 8400 running on MF bios 1102 temps are very good and acurate 30c idle and 55c load 478x9@1.40vCore. Everest and coretemp both read the temps correctly. Asus anal probe is crap, if you have an older version of everest it will read them wrong. Version 4.50.1330 is very acurate for 45nm cpu's, coretemp can be adjusted to the proper tjmax by editing the settings file tjmaxoffset= ( add whatever value )

[ZenEffect]

ok, so if anybody here is wondering if when you flash your motherboard to a rampage will asus honor a rma if it goes dead? the answer is YES. just dont tell them you flashed it ;)

new mobo on its way to me now :)

[Grnfinger]

This is good news.

[ante_ante]

bios 0406 is not compatible with raid-controller adaptec 3405. computer does not start, the inscription on the LCD poster CPU init, and all.

Have flashed now. And running 500x8 without any problems. Haven´t tried the bios more then that.

[NeoRecon]

Another vote for the 1201 beta bios to be a dud. I had constant memory errors and blue screens with that bios. Rolled back to 1102 and its been smooth running since. Is there any advantage of switching to the rampage for me if 1102 has been working OK? I'm not currently overclocking the CPU, but would like to eventually.

[Grnfinger]

Another vote for the 1201 beta bios to be a dud. I had constant memory errors and blue screens with that bios. Rolled back to 1102 and its been smooth running since. Is there any advantage of switching to the rampage for me if 1102 has been working OK? I'm not currently overclocking the CPU, but would like to eventually.

I find that 1102 is about as fast as Rampage 403, if your running 4GBs or more and want to overclock your ram alot Rampage will be a better choice for maximum performance / bandwidth. If your looking for a average overclock then I see no benifit. Others will disagree I'm sure but I have spent the last week comparing closely MF1102, MF1202 and RF403 and with exception to 1201 being a pos 1102 is right on

[cadaveca]

:shakes:

Heh, so delusional. :rolleyes:Maybe you don't have the right ram for 1201...I've been using it since day one without single issue.;)

You must realize by now that most bios releases are for compatibility issues, so don't knock the only bios that works with 2GB Micron sticks, PLS!!!(1201 provides a TREF change that accounts for the poorer performance, also sorts mem compatibility issues)


:up:

I'm still awaiting a bios for 2gb Hynix DIMM support. :shakes:

[Dostoyevsky77]

I find that 1102 is about as fast as Rampage 403, if your running 4GBs or more and want to overclock your ram alot Rampage will be a better choice for maximum performance / bandwidth. If your looking for a average overclock then I see no benifit. Others will disagree I'm sure but I have spent the last week comparing closely MF1102, MF1202 and RF403 and with exception to 1201 being a pos 1102 is right on

I checked 1201 and 0403. Even 4GB is about the same. They are close enough that if I did several tests, the averages would be about the same. I get almost exactly 10GB/s on R/W/C with either at sigged E8400. At this time, I do not see a benefit with my setup on Rampage. I don't see any penalty either, so I'm still running Rampage.

[Robilar]

Can anyone recommend a program that will read my voltages? I have an older beta of everest that is not showing much and asus pc probe is useless.

[cadaveca]

Check the beta everest thread here...everest has been detecting all voltages as pc probe does for some time now.

BUt everest will use lots of cpu-time for that monitoring...pc probe seems the "lightest" app so far...in other words, stability testing while everest is open is not test stability..it's testing stability with everest running!

[Robilar]

which version of pc probe? 1.04.29 shows very little info.

[Grnfinger]

:shakes:

Heh, so delusional. :rolleyes:Maybe you don't have the right ram for 1201...I've been using it since day one without single issue.;)

You must realize by now that most bios releases are for compatibility issues, so don't knock the only bios that works with 2GB Micron sticks, PLS!!!(1201 provides a TREF change that accounts for the poorer performance, also sorts mem compatibility issues)


:up:

I'm still awaiting a bios for 2gb Hynix DIMM support. :shakes:

I have 2x2GB power chips and 2x1GB D9's so I see no reason to fault my hardware.

I have recently went back to MF bios the tref change has been present since bios RF401 and is not there with MF1102, the only reason for MF1201 I believe is compatability with Crucial ram altho I could be mistaken.


I checked 1201 and 0403. Even 4GB is about the same. They are close enough that if I did several tests, the averages would be about the same. I get almost exactly 10GB/s on R/W/C with either at sigged E8400. At this time, I do not see a benefit with my setup on Rampage. I don't see any penalty either, so I'm still running Rampage.

I felt the same as you no real benifit or penalty, but I was going to part with my board and flashed back to MF, so playing around with MF bios 1102 I noticed I need less voltage for my Q6700 to be stable so I went with that untill there is a real performance benifit with Rampage.

[JKad]

Can you comment on experience with MF1102 and S3 sleep state? I've read of some problems with some of the bios and would appreciate your first hand experience. Currently running with 907 and have problems with some hardware coming out of S3--CF card reader not recognized and MF included soundcard not working. No other real issues but I am not overclocking either.
Thanks in advance.

[dexaroni]

Question that maybe someone can help me out with-

My comptuer will run stable for two days, then at random times, it will just crash... doesn't shut down, the USB and video just dies along with audio, however the comptuer still stays on and all the fans keep spinning. When this happens, if I remove the RAM from its slots and swap them around, it boots up fine and will run perfectly again.

I ran Orthos Stable at stock settings with a QX9650 for 4 hours, MEMtest comes up fine. The RAM is Corsair Dominator DDR-800 4-4-4-12... all settings are proper in bios.

This isn't killing me, but its a bit annoying. Any ideas?

[HermS]

Just wanted to say thanks to all the contributors on this thread, so much sound advice and good ideas floating around :) Especially want to thank grnfinger, you've put an astonishing ammount of work into this thread and motherboard, you ought to be very proud of what you've done here.:up:


Anyway, I had this old Q6600 G0 for quite some time now and its always been a right pain to get it to clock, but after inspecting the results and ideas you guys have been putting forward I finally achieved an OC I'm happy with, the temps are on the high side due to the 32c+ ambient and I think the loop needs to be cleaned and maintained. Theres still a lot of work to do, I'm sure I can get a higher clock speed from the CPU and/or pull the timings down a bit, but I think I have a good starting point. If anyone can see an obvious area to improve then please let me know.


Once again, thanks and keep up the good work.:cool:

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q148/JAFFA22/3700-1.png

[NeoRecon]

Well I think I may need new memory. My Crucial Ballistix Tracer's are not stable regardless of settings. Is one set more stable than the others? I'm currently running them at 800Mhz.

2 - 8500's
2 - 8000's

I've set the DRAM at about 2.14 which tests out at about 2.2V (the recommended voltage) I've also left it set at auto.

I can go anywhere from 4-12 hours and then I'll bluescreen with a 'memory' error.

I've been looking at the G.Skill options that are 2GB sticks so I'd drop down to 2 instead of 4 stick and still maintain 4GB.

I've also read that the Crucials that are single sided are the issue? and that If I can get the double sided ones I'll be in better shape.

Any suggestions would be appreciated!

[Shiranui Gen-An]

Have you run memtest to see if one or more of the sticks is bad?

[AquaRelliux]

Hello

I just swapped my 4x1gb Ballistix PC8500 ram to 2x2gb Dominator PC8500 ram to fix my system hang problems. But it still dident slove it I always get 1 crash when the system hangs and I need to force reboot no bsod nothing like that just freeze screen. I have been trying 1 millon settings and still no go I having the feeling that it might be a good idea to get a X48 moderboard but I am not sure. Always after 1 hang it runs fine horus after that the system is:

Q9450@3600mhz 1.23v(100% prime blend and small ffts stable even tryied OCCT ran smooth for 2 hours) max temp around 50c with realtemp it is watercooled.
Asus maximus X38 modded to rampage 0403 bios
2x2gb Dominator PC8500 ram
2x Powercolor 3870s in crossfire only one with modded bios might this be it?, both run @850/1271 and I always get the damn atikmdag problem in same games.
Tagan Easycon 580watt PSU should be enough I heard alot of times.
3x hdds, 1x velociraptor 300gb, 1x 500gb WD sata, 1x 250gb WD sata
1x Samsung Dvd recorder

Bios settings:

Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 450
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 333
PCI-E Frequency: 103(tried 100-110 not diffrence over 110 and it dosent boot)
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 1081
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 4
Row Refresh Cycle Time : 60
Write Recovery Time : 4
Read to Precharge Time : 4

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (D) : Auto
DRAM Static Read Control: Disabled(tried Enable no diffrence)
Ai Clock Twister : Strong
Transaction Booster : 7 (tried alot of other settings but only boots in 7 otherwise blackscreen)

CPU Voltage : 1.23785v(1.23v load) (tried up to 1.3 no diffrence)
CPU PLL Voltage : 1.5v
North Bridge Voltage : 1.59v(tried from 1.4v-1.65 no diffrence)
DRAM Voltage : 2.04(2.1v real) (tried 1.90v and that makes the system completly unstable)
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.36v(Everest and bios says 1.26v so it should be fine or should I not trust Everest and bios?)
South Bridge Voltage : 1.5v
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : Auto(tried 0.63x but crashed on windows vista boot logo)
North Bridge GTL Reference : 0.67x( Tried alot of diffrent but still crashing)
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : DDR REFF
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : DDR REFF
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : DDR REFF
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1.5v

NB LED Selection : FSBT Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU Volt
Voltiminder LED : Enabled

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

Plz anyone got any ideas är should I just sell the crap and by a P5Q that seems really good, plz guys I am getting crazy here and I dont really have the money to buy a new mobo, also forgott to mention both gfx and NB is watercooled max NB temp os around 40c max load and gfx around 45c load?

//Aqua

[Grnfinger]

Hello

I just swapped my 4x1gb Ballistix PC8500 ram to 2x2gb Dominator PC8500 ram to fix my system hang problems. But it still dident slove it I always get 1 crash when the system hangs and I need to force reboot no bsod nothing like that just freeze screen. I have been trying 1 millon settings and still no go I having the feeling that it might be a good idea to get a X48 moderboard but I am not sure. Always after 1 hang it runs fine horus after that the system is:

Q9450@3600mhz 1.23v(100% prime blend and small ffts stable even tryied OCCT ran smooth for 2 hours) max temp around 50c with realtemp it is watercooled.
Asus maximus X38 modded to rampage 0403 bios
2x2gb Dominator PC8500 ram
2x Powercolor 3870s in crossfire only one with modded bios might this be it?, both run @850/1271 and I always get the damn atikmdag problem in same games.
Tagan Easycon 580watt PSU should be enough I heard alot of times.
3x hdds, 1x velociraptor 300gb, 1x 500gb WD sata, 1x 250gb WD sata
1x Samsung Dvd recorder

Bios settings:

Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8
FSB Frequency : 450
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 333
PCI-E Frequency: 103(tried 100-110 not diffrence over 110 and it dosent boot)
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 1081
DRAM Command Rate : 2T
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 4
Row Refresh Cycle Time : 60
Write Recovery Time : 4
Read to Precharge Time : 4

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (S) : Auto
Read to Read Delay (D) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (S) : Auto
Write to Write Delay (D) : Auto
DRAM Static Read Control: Disabled(tried Enable no diffrence)
Ai Clock Twister : Strong
Transaction Booster : 7 (tried alot of other settings but only boots in 7 otherwise blackscreen)

CPU Voltage : 1.23785v(1.23v load) (tried up to 1.3 no diffrence)
CPU PLL Voltage : 1.5v
North Bridge Voltage : 1.59v(tried from 1.4v-1.65 no diffrence)
DRAM Voltage : 2.04(2.1v real) (tried 1.90v and that makes the system completly unstable)
FSB Termination Voltage : 1.36v(Everest and bios says 1.26v so it should be fine or should I not trust Everest and bios?)
South Bridge Voltage : 1.5v
Loadline Calibration : Enabled
CPU GTL Reference : Auto(tried 0.63x but crashed on windows vista boot logo)
North Bridge GTL Reference : 0.67x( Tried alot of diffrent but still crashing)
DDR2 Channel A REF Voltage : DDR REFF
DDR2 Channel B REF Voltage : DDR REFF
DDR2 Controller REF Voltage : DDR REFF
SB 1.5V Voltage : 1.5v

NB LED Selection : FSBT Volt
SB LED Selection : SB Volt
CPU LED Selection : CPU Volt
Voltiminder LED : Enabled

CPU Spread Spectrum : Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum : Disabled

Plz anyone got any ideas är should I just sell the crap and by a P5Q that seems really good, plz guys I am getting crazy here and I dont really have the money to buy a new mobo, also forgott to mention both gfx and NB is watercooled max NB temp os around 40c max load and gfx around 45c load?

//Aqua

No need to sell the board just yet:)

A little more info if you dont mind, what bios version are you running?
I think the Dominators need 2.2 volts ( or atleast mine do) so if you set 2.12 in bios you should get 2.2volts actual, try that and see if it improves
anything.

Your timings looks alittle off, try 5-5-5-15-3-55-6-3

Please post back results, with alittle effort I'm sure stability is right around the corner.

[zlojack]

The 2GB modules shouldn't need that much voltage.

I have run 8 gigs of it at 5-5-5-15-3-60 PL=7 on the 266 strap with 1128 MHz with the volts set to 2.0 in bios. Try that (sometimes a different strap can actually help)

[Grnfinger]

The 2GB modules shouldn't need that much voltage.

I have run 8 gigs of it at 5-5-5-15-3-60 PL=7 on the 266 strap with 1128 MHz with the volts set to 2.0 in bios. Try that (sometimes a different strap can actually help)

I have tried the 266 strap a few times with little to no success

would you mind posting the first half of your bios settings? :)
I would like to squeeze a few drops more from my ram 4GBs at 1080 is kinda slow:shakes:

Anyways the chip is out and siting on my desk, it will be sadly missed but the Q9550 will definately help me get over my sorrow.

[zlojack]

I have tried the 266 strap a few times with little to no success

would you mind posting the first half of your bios settings? :)
I would like to squeeze a few drops more from my ram 4GBs at 1080 is kinda slow:shakes:

Anyways the chip is out and siting on my desk, it will be sadly missed but the Q9550 will definately help me get over my sorrow.

Good news :up: I'm looking forward to it!

Anyway, let me check those bios settings for you and post them. I'll have to remember which ones passed Memtest86+ (I should really write this stuff down)

[AquaRelliux]

No need to sell the board just yet:)

A little more info if you dont mind, what bios version are you running?
I think the Dominators need 2.2 volts ( or atleast mine do) so if you set 2.12 in bios you should get 2.2volts actual, try that and see if it improves
anything.

Your timings looks alittle off, try 5-5-5-15-3-55-6-3

Please post back results, with alittle effort I'm sure stability is right around the corner.

I use 0403 bios, but is freeze screen always becuase of ram and reboots because of cpu or did I get something wrong here?

[zlojack]

Here's what I used:
Bios settings:

Extreme Tweaker
Ai Overclock Tuner : Manual
OC From CPU Level Up : AUTO
CPU Ratio Control : Manual
- Ratio CMOS Setting : 8.5
FSB Frequency : 450
FSB Strap to North Bridge : 266
PCI-E Frequency: 100
DRAM Frequency: DDR2- 1128
DRAM Command Rate : 2N
DRAM Timing Control: Manual
CAS# Latency : 5
RAS# to CAS# Delay : 5
RAS# Precharge : 5
RAS# ActivateTime : 15
RAS# to RAS# Delay : 3
Row Refresh Cycle Time : 60
Write Recovery Time : 6
Read to Precharge Time : 3

Read to Write Delay (S/D) : 8
Write to Read Delay (S) : 3
Write to Read Delay (D) : 5
Read to Read Delay (S) : 4
Read to Read Delay (D) : 6
Write to Write Delay (S) : 4
Write to Write Delay (D) : 6
Then the extra sub-timings for the Rampage: 14-5-1-6-6
DRAM Static Read Control: Disabled(tried Enable no diffrence)
Ai Clock Twister : Moderate/Strong
Performance Level : 7 (I had it at 6 for FSB at 425 + 1133MHz RAM on my QX9650, but for 450 it had to go to 7)
All pull-ins disabled.

These settings were pretty decent and stable, but I hadn't really played with them enough in terms of tightening timings to squeeze a bit more out of the sticks.