E6600 + Asus 680i Striker Extreme

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12-20-2006, 04:53 PM
eva2000

E6600 + Asus 680i Striker Extreme
After showing the Asus 680i Striker Extreme bios and setup photos (bypass photos to Striker board info/links/downloads), it's time to get down to some testing and results :)

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_146.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_155.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_158.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_163.jpg
http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_171.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_200.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_204.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_208.jpg

System:
- Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 QPGE B1 Step 5
- Scythe Infinity heatsink with mounting mod + Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm fan
- 128MB FX5200 PCI / 256MB BFG 7800GTX / Gainward 8800GTS/SLI
- Asus 680i Striker Extreme rev1.0 with initial official 302 bios
- 1x 160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATA NCQ on SATA2 port
- Pioneer DVR-05 DVD Burner
- 600W OCZ EvoStream Modular Power supply
Memory to be used:
- 2x512MB OCZ PC5400 Platinum XTC 3-3-3-12
- 2x512MB Corsair XMS5400ULv1.5 3-3-2-8
- 2x1GB G.Skill F2-6400PHU2 2GBHZ Micron D9GMH 629 batch
- 2x1GB Teamgroup PC6400C3 3-3-3-8 Micron D9GMH
- 2x1GB OCZ PC8000 Titanium Alpha VX2 Micron D9GKX
Room temp: 23.3C to 30.8C average

@3600Mhz - 9x400FSB at 1.39v
As always start of with a known stable overclock on my E6600 which is 3600Mhz at between 1.371v and 1.42v on various motherboards. On Asus 680i Striker Extreme it seems 3600Mhz handles fine at 1.39v vcore under load so far. I used 2x512MB OCZ PC5400 Platinum XTC 3-3-3-12 memory for the tests.

Settings used:

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1600 (means 400FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1600
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 800 (means 400mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 880.2

Vcore Voltage: 1.525 set (1.42v bios/1.41v windows idle/1.39v windows load)
Memory Voltage: 2.100v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.3v
NB Core Voltage: 1.4v
SB Core Voltage: 1.55v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 4
tRCD: 4
tRP: 4
tRAS: 12
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: AUTO
tRC: AUTO
tWR: AUTO
tWTR: AUTO
tREF: AUTO
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...lidated_tn.png

Prime95 v25.1 multi-threaded dual small FFTs priming for ~1hr 18mins before I stopped it. Interesting that even coretemp reported cpu temps fluctuated alot more jumping between 59C to 68C while priming.
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...ime95_load.png

Post Prime idle temps:
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...5_1hr18min.png

Asus PC Probe2 reported voltages vs Digitech QM1538 Digital Multimeter measurements while under load

+3.3v rail = 3.26v vs 3.387v real
+5v rail = 4.78-4.89v vs 5.02v real
+12v rail = 11.78v vs 12.23v real
12-20-2006, 04:54 PM
eva2000
Now that we have a base reference overclock to fall back on @3600Mhz at 1.39v, it's time to mess around with the memory timings within bios and within Memset v3.1 beta. Still using 2x512MB OCZ PC5400 Platinum XTC 3-3-3-12 memory for the tests initially then will try other memory as well.

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_013.jpg

Memory timings
Being the first time using a 680i platform, there's so many options in bios to play with. So I spent a couple of hours using 2x512MB OCZ PC5400 Platinum XTC 3-3-3-12 and just playing in memtest86+ v1.65 to get a feel of what the main and advance timings could or could not do. I started with 9x333FSB with unlinked memory clocked at 333mhz 3-3-3-12 with 2T and 2.1v as the base reference setting. Then proceeded to tweak each memory timing/advance timing and see how it changed performance.

I'll use the following to quickly test each setting and graph the average result after 3 runs of each test:
- Super Pi v1.50 1M and 2M tests
- Mbench http://www.x86-secret.com/Download/mbench.zip
Format for testing:

Quote:

Super Pi v1.50
1M run #1:
1M run #2:
1M run #3:
1M average:

2M run #1:
2M run #2:
2M run #3:
2M average:

Mbench
Access latency run #1:
Access latency run #2:
Access latency run #3:
Access latency average:

Read datarate (INT) run #1:
Read datarate (INT) run #2:
Read datarate (INT) run #3:
Read datarate (INT) average:
Write datarate (INT) run #1:
Write datarate (INT) run #2:
Write datarate (INT) run #3:
Write datarate (INT) average:

Read datarate (MMX) run #1:
Read datarate (MMX) run #2:
Read datarate (MMX) run #3:
Read datarate (MMX) average:
Write datarate (MMX) run #1:
Write datarate (MMX) run #2:
Write datarate (MMX) run #3:
Write datarate (MMX) average:

Read datarate (SSE) run #1:
Read datarate (SSE) run #2:
Read datarate (SSE) run #3:
Read datarate (SSE) average:
Write datarate (SSE) run #1:
Write datarate (SSE) run #2:
Write datarate (SSE) run #3:
Write datarate (SSE) average:

Results @9x333FSB = 3000Mhz with unlinked
2x512MB OCZ PC5400 Platinum XTC 3-3-3-12@333mhz 3-3-3-12

Bios settings Used:
Will highlight bios options in bold for any subsequent tests below which have changed from the initial settings outlined directly below.

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1333 (means 333FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1332
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 667 (means 333mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 666.8

Vcore Voltage: 1.3875v
Memory Voltage: 2.100v for 1T/2T stock tests and 2.200v for 1T tweaked
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.3v
NB Core Voltage: 1.4v
SB Core Voltage: 1.55v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 3
tRCD: 3
tRP: 3
tRAS: 12
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: AUTO
tRC: AUTO
tWR: AUTO
tWTR: AUTO
tREF: AUTO
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

2T vs 1T vs 1T Tweaked
Graphed results with actual data further below. The graph represents the average of 3 runs for each test.

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._pi_access.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...312_1tvs2t.png

tCL (CAS Latency) - tRCD - tRP - tRAS - Command Per Clock (CMD)
tRRD - tRC - tWR - tWTR - tREF - Async Latency

Quote:

3-3-3-12-2T
AUTO-AUTO-AUTO-AUTO-AUTO-AUTO

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...aultboot2T.png

Super Pi v1.50
1M run #1: 17.188s
1M run #2: 17.187s
1M run #3: 17.187s
1M average: 17.1873s

2M run #1: 44.344s
2M run #2: 44.297s
2M run #3: 44.313s
2M average: 44.318s

Mbench
Access latency run #1: 60.0 ns (180 clocks)
Access latency run #2: 60.0 ns (180 clocks)
Access latency run #3: 60.0 ns (180 clocks)
Access latency average: 60.0 ns (180 clocks)

Read datarate (INT) run #1: 6876 MB/s
Read datarate (INT) run #2: 6873
Read datarate (INT) run #3: 6840
Read datarate (INT) average: 6863 MB/s
Write datarate (INT) run #1: 2246 MB/s
Write datarate (INT) run #2: 2291
Write datarate (INT) run #3: 2123
Write datarate (INT) average: 2220 MB/s

Read datarate (MMX) run #1: 7344 MB/s
Read datarate (MMX) run #2: 7294
Read datarate (MMX) run #3: 7335
Read datarate (MMX) average: 7324.33 MB/s
Write datarate (MMX) run #1: 2226 MB/s
Write datarate (MMX) run #2: 2278
Write datarate (MMX) run #3: 2035
Write datarate (MMX) average: 2179.67 MB/s

Read datarate (SSE) run #1: 7816 MB/s
Read datarate (SSE) run #2: 7756
Read datarate (SSE) run #3: 7764
Read datarate (SSE) average: 7778.67 MB/s
Write datarate (SSE) run #1: 6005 MB/s
Write datarate (SSE) run #2: 6012
Write datarate (SSE) run #3: 5998
Write datarate (SSE) average: 6005 MB/s

Reboot system and set 1T in bios

Quote:

3-3-3-12-1T
AUTO-AUTO-AUTO-AUTO-AUTO-AUTO

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...aultboot1T.png

Super Pi v1.50
1M run #1: 17.109s
1M run #2: 17.141s
1M run #3: 17.094s
1M average: 17.1157s

2M run #1: 43.078s
2M run #2: 43.015s
2M run #3: 43.047s
2M average: 43.0467s

Mbench
Access latency run #1: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)
Access latency run #2: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)
Access latency run #3: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)
Access latency average: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)

Read datarate (INT) run #1: 7114 MB/s
Read datarate (INT) run #2: 7145
Read datarate (INT) run #3: 7138
Read datarate (INT) average: 7132.33 MB/s
Write datarate (INT) run #1: 2476 MB/s
Write datarate (INT) run #2: 2482
Write datarate (INT) run #3: 2373
Write datarate (INT) average: 2443.67 MB/s

Read datarate (MMX) run #1: 7644 MB/s
Read datarate (MMX) run #2: 7656
Read datarate (MMX) run #3: 7664
Read datarate (MMX) average: 7654.67 MB/s
Write datarate (MMX) run #1: 2473 MB/s
Write datarate (MMX) run #2: 2478
Write datarate (MMX) run #3: 2371
Write datarate (MMX) average: 2440.67 MB/s

Read datarate (SSE) run #1: 8096 MB/s
Read datarate (SSE) run #2: 8165
Read datarate (SSE) run #3: 8168
Read datarate (SSE) average: 8143 MB/s
Write datarate (SSE) run #1: 6018 MB/s
Write datarate (SSE) run #2: 5998
Write datarate (SSE) run #3: 5982
Write datarate (SSE) average: 5999.33 MB/s

Reboot system and set 1T in bios and tightened advance memory timings in bios and memset.

Quote:

3-3-3-12-1T
4-12-4-5-AUTO-AUTO

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...boot1T_twk.png

Super Pi v1.50
1M run #1: 17.109s
1M run #2: 17.109s
1M run #3: 17.110s
1M average: 17.1093s

2M run #1: 42.469s
2M run #2: 42.469s
2M run #3: 42.469s
2M average: 42.469s

Mbench
Access latency run #1: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)
Access latency run #2: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)
Access latency run #3: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)
Access latency average: 55.7 ns (167 clocks)

Read datarate (INT) run #1: 7170 MB/s
Read datarate (INT) run #2: 7150
Read datarate (INT) run #3: 7095
Read datarate (INT) average: 7138.33 MB/s
Write datarate (INT) run #1: 2651 MB/s
Write datarate (INT) run #2: 2643
Write datarate (INT) run #3: 2578
Write datarate (INT) average: 2624 MB/s

Read datarate (MMX) run #1: 7676 MB/s
Read datarate (MMX) run #2: 7659
Read datarate (MMX) run #3: 7618
Read datarate (MMX) average: 7651 MB/s
Write datarate (MMX) run #1: 2643 MB/s
Write datarate (MMX) run #2: 2638
Write datarate (MMX) run #3: 2564
Write datarate (MMX) average: 2615 MB/s

Read datarate (SSE) run #1: 8178 MB/s
Read datarate (SSE) run #2: 8175
Read datarate (SSE) run #3: 8179
Read datarate (SSE) average: 8177.33 MB/s
Write datarate (SSE) run #1: 5997 MB/s
Write datarate (SSE) run #2: 6000
Write datarate (SSE) run #3: 5999
Write datarate (SSE) average: 5998.67 MB/s
12-20-2006, 04:55 PM
eva2000

Before I continue any further, I decided to make use of Asus 680i Striker Extreme's 3 include onboard thermal sensors. They're 2pin header thermal sensors you can attach to the motherboard to allow another 3 thermal monitoring readings from bios as well as Asus PC Probe2.

Here you can see the additional thermal sensors labeled as follows

OPT1 Temp = Mosfet heatpipe heatsink temps (near I/O panel)
OPT2 Temp = NB heatpipe heatsink temps
OPT3 Temp = SB heatpipe heatsink temps (shoved sensor inside the tiny hole in SB heatsink so probably alot higher readings than OPT1 and OPT2 which are stuck to heatsinks.

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...sfet_nb_sb.png

Room temp: ~29.5-30.8C
Cooling used: Scythe Infinity with mount mod + 1x Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm push-pull
Bios idle: 30-31C
Windows idle: 40-41C
Windows load: 53-54C
Rise above ambient delta = 22.2-24.5C
Rise above windows idle delta = 12-14C

As you can see today's a hot day here with 29.5C room temps. But the delta temps falls inline with Scythe Infinity air testing on E6600 with Intel D975XBX done here http://i4memory.com/showthread.php?t=3218 although there's 2x 120x25mm fans instead of one for Asus 680i Striker Extreme test above.

Quote:

E6600 @2400Mhz at 1.254v + Intel D975XBX Bad Axe
Scythe Infinity + 2x Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm push-pull

Room temp: ~27-29C
Cooling used: Scythe Infinity + 2x Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm push-pull
Bios idle: 40-43C
Windows idle: 35-36C
Windows load: 50-51C
Rise above ambient delta = 22-24C
Rise above windows idle delta = 15-16C

So I guess the mounting mod works fine :D
12-20-2006, 04:55 PM
eva2000

@3811Mhz - 9x423FSB 1:1 unlinked at 1.55v

Time to push the system further @3811Mhz - 9x423FSB 1:1 unlinked at 1.55v under load on air.

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1694 (means 423FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1694
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 847 (means 423mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 847

Vcore Voltage: 1.675v = 1.57v windows idle/1.55v load
Memory Voltage: 2.100v for 2T stock tests and 2.200v for 1T tweaked
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.4v
SB Core Voltage: 1.55v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 4
tRCD: 4
tRP: 4
tRAS: 12
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T) vs 1 clock (1T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: AUTO
tRC: AUTO
tWR: AUTO
tWTR: AUTO
tREF: AUTO
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

Both 2T and 1T Super Pi 32M were run with 4x cpuz windows open, Asus PC Probe2 running, memset v3.1 beta open as I was also monitoring the PC Probe2 reported temps while 32M ran. 2T managed to screen capture half way mark but 1T I forgot to do the half way mark screen capture :o

Super Pi 32M
@3811Mhz - 9x423FSB 1:1

2T = 16m 01.093s
1T = 15m 20.203s
1T tweaked 4-24-6-8 = 15m 12.359s
1T tweaked 4-15-6-8 tRFC 35 = 14m 19.844s

2T half way mark
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...halfway_tn.png

2T completed
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...1s094ms_tn.png

1T completed
- extra vdimm wasn't necessary just forgot to set it back to 2.1v :heh:
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...0s203ms_tn.png

Notice the advance timings when set to AUTO result in different settings for 2T vs 1T:

2T Bios set = Memset reported
tRRD: AUTO = 4
tRC: AUTO = 24
tWR: AUTO = 6
tWTR: AUTO = 8

vs

1T Bios set = Memset reported
tRRD: AUTO = 5 - loosened from 4 in 2T
tRC: AUTO = 25 - loosened from 24 in 2T
tWR: AUTO = 6
tWTR: AUTO = 9 - loosened from 8 in 2T

tRFC which isn't available as an option in bios for both 1T and 2T were set AUTO = 45.

Note, that with 2x512MB modules it will be ~20 seconds slower than same clocked/timing 2x1GB modules for Super Pi 32M.
12-20-2006, 04:56 PM
eva2000

So what happens when I set it to 1T and use memset to tighten the advance timings so the match the 2T AUTO set timings of 4-24-6-8 ?

1T tweaked half way
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...halfway_tn.png

1T tweaked completed
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2s359ms_tn.png
12-20-2006, 04:56 PM
eva2000

Now to use memset to tighten the advance timings to 4-15-6-8 with tRFC = 35 and look at this nearly 102 seconds faster than stock 2T @423mhz 4-4-4-12 at AUTO advance timings! But still slower than 975x chipset at same clocks by around 25-40 seconds. If you take into account ~20s slower with 2x512MB modules, means the Striker was around 5-20 seconds slower than 975x in Super Pi 32M at those particular timings below.

1T memset tweaked
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...9s844ms_tn.png
12-20-2006, 04:57 PM
eva2000

Now tightened tRAS to 4 and advance timings to 4-15-5-7 and tRFC to 32.

1T @423Mhz 4-4-4-4 4-15-5-7
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...0s281ms_tn.png

Interesting for the 2x512MB OCZ PC5400 Platinum XTC 3-3-3-12 memory, if advance timings are set to AUTO values in bios, tRAS of 12 is fastest followed by tRAS for 4 and 1. Other tRAS values below 12 or above are slower, until you manually set the advance timings, only then will you see improvement in tRAS below 12.

Will try my Gskill HZ next ... :)
12-20-2006, 04:59 PM
eva2000

bios pictures :)

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_001.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_003.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_004.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_008.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_010.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_011.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_012.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_013.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_014.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_015.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_016.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_017.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_018.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_019.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_027.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_030.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_032.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_033.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_039.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_040.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_048.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_052.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_056.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_057.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_058.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_059.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_072.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_074.jpg
12-20-2006, 04:59 PM
eva2000
Regarding SLI/Sound read http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/...5&postcount=18

Flashed to 402 bios
2x1GB G.Skill F2-6400PHU2 2GBHZ
Micron D9GMH 629 batch
Since everyone seems to be doing well with 402 beta bios, I decided to flash from 302 to 402 bios using Asus Ez Flash from within bios using my 4GB Corsair Voyager USB flash drive. Worked flawlessly. 402 bios brought 2 new bios memory timing options to the table, tRD and tRFC. tRFC can be seen in Memset v3.1v beta but tRD can't be seen in Memset right now.

Now using 2x1GB G.Skill F2-6400PHU2 2GBHZ Micron D9GMH 629 batch memory, I decided to play with the unlinked memory option finding my footing using the 5:9 divider below at stock 266FSB and 480mhz clocked memory :)

As always I used memtest86+ v1.65 to test the clocks before even booting into windows. I'd highly advise doing this all the time ;)

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1067 (means 266FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1067
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 960 (means 480mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 960

Vcore Voltage: 1.4v
Memory Voltage: 2.200v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.4v
SB Core Voltage: 1.50v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 4
tRCD: 4 then 3
tRP: 4 then 3
tRAS: 12 then 4
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: AUTO
tRC: AUTO
tWR: AUTO
tWTR: AUTO
tREF: AUTO
tRD: AUTO < new in 402 bios
tRFC: AUTO < new in 402 bios
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

E6600@2400Mhz 9x266FSB 480Mhz 4-4-4-12 2T at 2.2v

Advance Memory Settings
The advance memory settings set as AUTO in bios @5:9 unlinked 480mhz memory clocks showed up in Memset v3.1 beta in windows as:

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...t_defaults.png

tRRD: AUTO = 3
tRC: AUTO = 26
tWR: AUTO = 6
tWTR: AUTO = 8
tREF: AUTO = ??
tRD: AUTO = ??
tRFC: AUTO = 37
Async Latency: ??

I then ran Super Pi 32M but tightened the timings using Memset v3.1 beta to the following:

tRRD: 3
tRC: 26 tightened to 7
tWR: 6 tightened to 5
tWTR: 8 tightened to 7
tRFC: 37 tightened to 18

Managed 32M time of 20m 24.640s at E6600@2400Mhz 9x266FSB 480Mhz 4-4-4-12 2T at 2.2v

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...0m24s640ms.png

E6600@2400Mhz 9x266FSB 480Mhz 4-3-3-4 2T at 2.2v

Then I tightened both the main and advance timings even more in same windows session and ran Super Pi 32M with the following:

tCL (CAS Latency): 4
tRCD: 4 tightened to 3
tRP: 4 tightened to 3
tRAS: 12 tightened to 4
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

tRRD: 3
tRC: 7 tightened to 5
tWR: 5
tWTR: 7
tRFC: 18

Managed 32M time of 20m 16.891s at E6600@2400Mhz 9x266FSB 480Mhz 4-3-3-4 2T at 2.2v

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...0m16s891ms.png

Still have alot of tweaking to do. The unlinked memory mode isn't as flexible as I thought it would be - basically unlinked mode gives you more sets of fixed dividers than the linked mode, so you only have set options for each FSB you set. An example just to name a few memory options you have in unlinked mode for 266FSB (1067 QDR) are:

Memory clocks in unlinked mode:
- 915 actual 914.3Mhz
- 934 actual 933.4Mhz
- 949 actual 948.1Mhz
- 960 actual 960Mhz
- 978 actual 977.8Mhz
- 991 actual 990.5Mhz
- 1000 actual 1000Mhz
- 1067 actual 1066.7Mhz
Those are just a few of the examples there's many more.
- So if you typed in 960, you'll get 960 = 480Mhz memory clocks.
- If you typed in 970, you'll still get 960 = 480Mhz memory clocks.
- If you typed in 985, you'll get 977.8Mhz = 488.9Mhz memory clocks.
12-20-2006, 05:07 PM
eva2000

for more results
12-20-2006, 05:34 PM
Supertim0r

really nice review as always eva :clap:
are you going to test the Kentsfield ?
12-20-2006, 07:45 PM
eva2000

Yeah will test my Q6600 after get memory/timings etc figured out :)
12-20-2006, 07:52 PM
hausner

alot of pictures , i liked :toast:
12-20-2006, 08:05 PM
Iceflight

What a job!!!! Thanks bro......
12-21-2006, 04:41 AM
flesheatinvirus

That was a :banana::banana::banana::banana: load of juicy info on that board, great job as always. I may just pick one of them up.
12-21-2006, 09:44 AM
noobzed

Do you have sound issue with Striker and SLi enabled, specially in games ?
12-21-2006, 11:29 AM
kromosto

totally amazing review as always thanks again eva i like to read your reviews.
12-21-2006, 04:06 PM
eva2000

Glad you guys like :)

Regarding SLI/Sound:
Still testing ram/settings etc and have yet to try SLI so no idea on sound issue yet. But Asus Striker is different from reference 680i in that it moved the sound off the motherboard to a separate daughter board card which is x1 PCI-E based and slots into the PCI-E slot. From what Andre or someone one this forum has experienced they don't have sound issues when SLI is enabled due to this difference. I can't confirm it until I run SLI later though.

The separate sound card and it's array microphone

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_067.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_068.jpg
12-21-2006, 04:09 PM
sdumper

Confirmed no sound issues....
Of course your still better off using a creative sound card...
12-21-2006, 04:23 PM
kraggy

Eva-bro, have you tried this mobo with a quad chip yet?
12-21-2006, 04:32 PM
eva2000

only had board for 4 days and have 6GB of DDR2 memory to test first with all the settings.... so yes will get around to Q6600 but will be a while yet heh

Shamino got his Striker to push 371FSB with QX6700 http://forums.vr-zone.com/showthread.php?t=115689 though which is better than other 680i boards around 280-350FSB.
12-21-2006, 04:42 PM
msgclb

Quote:

Originally Posted by eva2000

After showing the Asus 680i Striker Extreme bios and setup photos, it's time to get down to some testing and results :)

That sure is a high tech test bench you have.:D You'd be broke if you had to get all those photos developed. I can only think of one word to say about your review: amazing.

Can I steal some of your methodology to test my new Asus P5N32-E SLI? It's actually installed on a more up to date test bench!:)
12-21-2006, 07:24 PM
eva2000

Quote:

Originally Posted by msgclb

That sure is a high tech test bench you have.:D You'd be broke if you had to get all those photos developed. I can only think of one word to say about your review: amazing.

Can I steal some of your methodology to test my new Asus P5N32-E SLI? It's actually installed on a more up to date test bench!:)

Thanks...LOL yeah photo development would be alot if it wasn't for my Nikon 5700 :D

sure you can use my methodology to test your new board... Good luck and happy oc'ing :)
12-22-2006, 06:01 AM
eva2000

Updated above post with some 2GB Gskill 6400PHU2 D9GMH tests http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/...59&postcount=9 :)
12-22-2006, 10:31 AM
GAR

EVA regarding the G.SKILL you have to upgrade to the 0505 bios in order to get the most out of the ram, my limit was below 500, i updated to the 0505 bios and bam goes over 500 easily.......update to 0505 bios, stable and much better for OC.
12-22-2006, 04:24 PM
JoeBar

Great work, as allways, eva! :clap:
12-22-2006, 07:25 PM
gundamit

Fantastic report! Nothing earth-shattering but the level of detail will pay benefits to a lot of members just setting up 680i. Looking forward to the SLI report updates.
12-22-2006, 08:18 PM
eva2000

Thanks guys... 680i striker sure has enough potential with the right tweaks but if you're only judging it on Super Pi results then when properly tweaked it may only be slightly slower than intel chipsets. Remember, I've only had the board for 4 days now. As with any board with this many bios options like DFI NF3/NF4 days, it can take weeks to figure everything out :) Anyway, 8800GTX/GTS SLI is the king for 3d now and 680i is the only board for that :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by GAR

EVA regarding the G.SKILL you have to upgrade to the 0505 bios in order to get the most out of the ram, my limit was below 500, i updated to the 0505 bios and bam goes over 500 easily.......update to 0505 bios, stable and much better for OC.

Thanks GAR, I just updated again using USB flash drive in Asus bios' EZ Flash from 0402 to 0505 official bios and it has fixed my heavy vcore undervolting from bios set value issue!

1.3875v vcore on:
0302 official bios = 1.28v bios and 1.26v under load in windows
0402 beta bios = 1.28v bios and 1.26v under load in windows
0505 official bios = 1.36 bios and 1.34v under load in windows

Lastest Official Bios:
http://support.asus.com/download/dow...iker%20Extreme

0505 bios
http://dlsvr01.asus.com/pub/ASUS/mb/...eme/SE0505.zip

Quote:

Striker Extreme release BIOS version 0505
1. Support Max LDT Frequency from 5X to 8X
2. Fine tune CPU Temperature detection code
3. Fixed some default value can't save when using BIOS Profile function.
4. Enable adjustments for tRD and TrFC item
5. Enhance DDR667 memory compatibility
6. Enhance performance for Corsair CM2X1024-9136C5D
7. Fixed CPU Voltage max option drops to 1.60V when set Multi-Language option to 'Tri Chinese' , 'Sim Chinese' or 'Japanese'.

will see how memory clocking goes :)

Anyone care to explain/list what the old 0505 beta bios issues were that forced some folks back to 0402 bios ? I'd like to look out for those issues on this 0505 official bios (since folks saying it's the same).
12-23-2006, 05:22 PM
sdumper

Not too bad on SuperPi:
11s it can go faster but like you im still tweaking...also no cascade so am limited by temps :(

http://valid.x86-secret.com/show_oc?id=149488
12-26-2006, 09:38 AM
msgclb

Quote:

Originally Posted by eva2000

As always I used memtest86+ v1.65 to test the clocks before even booting into windows. I'd highly advise doing this all the time ;)

How long are you running memtest86+ before booting into windows?
12-26-2006, 10:17 AM
GAR

Quote:

Originally Posted by msgclb

How long are you running memtest86+ before booting into windows?

1 pass of memtest is usually enough.....if it fails after that, its more likely a heat issue.
12-26-2006, 10:45 AM
GAR

http://img106.imageshack.us/img106/1...oc37ghzoy0.jpg
12-26-2006, 04:44 PM
sdumper

2 Attachment(s)

Not great but the reason im posting is to show that the 450 hole doesn't seem to hold...
unless its a tad above 450...

http://aycu32.webshots.com/image/631...4713013_rs.jpg
12-27-2006, 12:02 PM
sdumper

[QUOTE=eva2000]Now to use memset to tighten the advance timings to 4-15-6-8 with tRFC = 35 and look at this nearly 102 seconds faster than stock 2T @423mhz 4-4-4-12 at AUTO advance timings! But still slower than 975x chipset at same clocks by around 25-40 seconds. If you take into account ~20s slower with 2x512MB modules, means the Striker was around 5-20 seconds slower than 975x in Super Pi 32M at those particular timings below.

1T memset tweaked

How did you get Memset to work on the 680i chipset? I tried MeMset30 and get an unsupported chipset error :(
12-27-2006, 12:07 PM
eva2000

memset v3.1 beta http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/...&postcount=334
12-27-2006, 09:10 PM
sdumper

Thanks Eva works like a charm:

Again I should be breaking into 10s at these timings so I agree this mobo is a little weak on the SuperPi calcs :(

[IMG]http://img01.picoodle.com/img/img01/...m_5e143be1.png[/IMG]
12-27-2006, 10:26 PM
Haltech

Thanks for the great review Eva. I really would like a 680i board so i can use my NV cards in SLI. I keep hearing about the hard drive corruption. Have you run into this problem yet Eva? Im waiting to see the DFI pop up and decide which of the two to get.. I was really hoping for 8 Internal Sata's on this board.
12-27-2006, 11:18 PM
GAR

there is no sata problem with the non reference boards, so the only companies that do not have the issue is asus, and dfi.
12-27-2006, 11:48 PM
makatee

Very very nice eva2000...Thanks a lot for it, as Im in the market for a new board...This helps me out a lot :toast:
12-29-2006, 12:25 AM
eva2000
Haltech no such drive corruption here :)

Thanks makatee...

next up....

Advance Memory Timings - What does AUTO option assign ?
More memory tests... This time to investigate what the bios sets the advance memory timings to when set to AUTO for each memory clock frequency. Again ALWAYS use memtest86+ v1.65 to test settings before booting windows.

Quick Memtest86+ v1.65 Procedure
I use a quick test first consisting of:
- 2 full memtest86+ v1.65 loops of test #1 to #8
- Then continuous test #5 loops for at least 10 loops.
- If there's errors in test #1-4 then try raising voltages i.e. NB, CPU VTT or 1.2v HT volts
- If test #5 errors try raising vdimm as well as NB, CPU VTT or 1.2v HT volts.
- Settings and clocks must also be able to reboot properly on exiting bios and memtest testing. Since unstable clocks or lack of NB and/or vDimm volts can result in problems rebooting on bios/memtest testing exit.
That isn't to say it's stable but at least stable enough to be able to boot into windows without BSOD'ing :)

System:
- Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 QPGE B1 Step 5
- Scythe Infinity heatsink with mounting mod + Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm fan
- 128MB FX5200 PCI / 256MB BFG 7800GTX / Gainward 8800GTS/SLI
- Asus 680i Striker Extreme rev1.0 0701 beta bios
- 1x 160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATA NCQ on SATA2 port
- Pioneer DVR-05 DVD Burner
- 600W OCZ EvoStream Modular Power supply
9x266FSB 4-4-4-12 2T fixed
I'll be only changing the unlinked mode divider keeping FSB fixed at 266FSB and timings fixed at 4-4-4-12 2T for initial tests. These screenshots below are just to find out what AUTO responds to for advance timings in memset v3.1 beta in windows.

Quote:

Asus PC Probe2 reported PSU rail voltages:
Asus PC Probe2 reported voltages vs Digitech QM1538 Digital Multimeter measurements while under load @2400mhz at 1.3875v bios set (1.28v vcore idle / 1.26v vcore load).

+3.3v rail = 3.26v vs 3.387v real
+5v rail = 4.78-4.89v vs 5.02v real
+12v rail = 11.78v vs 12.23v real

Bios template for 680i Striker users to report their settings:
AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1066 (means 266FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1066.7
MEM (DDR), Mhz:
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz:

Vcore Voltage: 1.325
Memory Voltage: 2.1 to 2.5v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4
NB Core Voltage: 1.4 to 1.6v
SB Core Voltage: 1.5
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 4
tRCD: 4
tRP: 4
tRAS: 12
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: AUTO
tRC: AUTO
tWR: AUTO
tWTR: AUTO
tREF: AUTO
Async Latency: AUTO

4:5 - 333Mhz
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

2:3 - 400Mhz
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

8:15 - 500Mhz
Raised vdimm to 2.25v and NB to 1.5v
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

1:2 - 533Mhz
Raised vdimm to 2.4v and NB to 1.6v
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

9x266FSB 5-4-4-12 2T fixed

Changed only to CAS = 5. Findings:
- CAS5 automatically loosens TWTR from 9 to 10 it seems when TWTR is set to AUTO.
1:2 - 533Mhz
Raised vdimm to 2.4v and NB to 1.6v
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

7:15 - 571Mhz
Raised vdimm to 2.45v and NB to 1.6v
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

6:13 - 577Mhz
Raised vdimm to 2.45v and NB to 1.65v
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

5:11- 586Mhz
Raised vdimm to 2.55v and NB to 1.65v
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

4:9- 600Mhz
Raised vdimm to 2.575v and NB to 1.65v
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._memset_tn.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._validated.png

Raising NB from 1.65v to 1.7v allowed me to pass single 32M run @600Mhz 5-4-4-12 at 2T at 2.575v vdimm. Memset seems to have not reported the right tRC value compared to what CPUZ is reporting tRC = 33.
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...5s859ms_tn.png
12-29-2006, 03:45 AM
gundamit

Congratulations! I ran over to this thread right after I saw your post in the 600mhz memory thread. And in the 32M SPi group as well. :toast:
12-29-2006, 04:04 AM
eva2000

thanks... now to figure out 1T clocks then I'm ready for cpu and 8800GTS SLI clocking :D
12-29-2006, 08:18 AM
sdumper

Nice work!!!!
12-29-2006, 11:05 AM
vanovich

looking forward to your gts sli results eva ,nice detailed work .anyone know when shops in europe get them in stock? ive preordered ,and been waiting over 3weeks now :(
12-29-2006, 03:13 PM
flesheatinvirus

Nice work Eva.:cool:
12-30-2006, 06:26 AM
eva2000
thanks guys..

The REAL reason for choosing an Asus 680i Striker Extreme SLI motherboard is of course for SLI :D

2x 640MB Gainward 8800GTS SLI twins with 97.44 drivers

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...00GTS_head.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_002.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_005.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_008.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_009.jpg

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_011.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_013.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_015.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/vid...800GTS_020.jpg

System:
- Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 QPGE B1 Step 5
- Scythe Infinity heatsink with mounting mod + Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm fan
- 2x 640MB Gainward 8800GTS SLI
- Asus 680i Striker Extreme rev1.0 0402 bios
- 1x 160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATA NCQ on SATA2 port
- Pioneer DVR-05 DVD Burner
- 600W OCZ EvoStream Modular Power supply
3dmark06 stock @513/1584
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...4_10906_tn.png

3dmark06 oc'd @648/2052
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_11253_tn.png

Yup cpu limited for 3dmark06 with E6600@2400Mhz stock :)

more to come :)
12-30-2006, 07:18 AM
sdumper

Looking nice!
12-30-2006, 07:56 AM
k|ngp|n

hey

Very useful, complete, and well done eva2000 :toast:. I would love to see the timings comparison again using all the 3dmarks...especially 01' an 06'.
12-30-2006, 08:25 AM
TaPaKaH

wow, nice review :toast:

(took me ~50mins to get through :D)
12-30-2006, 10:57 AM
Haltech

Wow Eva! So your 600 Watter holds up with the Dual GTS huh? Very Impressive!

Cant wait to see the numbers with the 6600 OC'd!
12-30-2006, 03:28 PM
eva2000
Quote:

Originally Posted by Haltech

Wow Eva! So your 600 Watter holds up with the Dual GTS huh? Very Impressive!

Cant wait to see the numbers with the 6600 OC'd!

Quote:

Originally Posted by TaPaKaH

wow, nice review :toast:

(took me ~50mins to get through :D)

hehe... thanks :)

Quote:

Originally Posted by Haltech

Wow Eva! So your 600 Watter holds up with the Dual GTS huh? Very Impressive!

Cant wait to see the numbers with the 6600 OC'd!

it should be able to handle 8800GTS SLI as the 600W OCZ EvoStream handled oc'd FX-60 + 8800GTS SLI on DFI NF4 Ultra-D here http://i4memory.com/showthread.php?t=3388 :)
Quote:
Power-mate power draw measurements with 8800GTS SLI installed to see what really is being consumed wattage wise :)

AFAIK, 8800GTS SLI has same or similar power requirements as 7950GX2 video card ?

As you can see for single PCI-E spaced DFI NF4 Ultra-D, having 2x 8800GTS SLI just fits :)

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/cpu...TS_SLI_003.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/cpu...TS_SLI_006.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/cpu...TS_SLI_009.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/cpu...TS_SLI_011.jpg

FX-60 stock with 8800GTS SLI stock windows start up system power draw = 277.3 Watts.
http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/cpu...TS_SLI_013.jpg

System:

FX-60 CCB2E 0536RPMW
Scythe Infinity + Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm fan
DFI NF4 Ultra-D R.AD0 0406 Bios (SLI modded)
2x 640MB Gainward Bliss 8800GTS Dual DVI with Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm 0.33A fan on top
2GB OCZ PC4000EB 3-3-2-8 with 120x25mm Delta 75cfm 0.4A fan
160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATAII NCQ
Gigabyte I-RAM with 1.5GB Kingston KHX3200 Winbond BH-5
Pioneer DVD-RW
600W OCZ EvoStream Modular

Power-Mate Peak power draw measurements

-----------------------------------------------------------------
@2612Mhz - 13x200HTT at 1.35v bios (1.312v)

8800GTS SLI @513/1584 stock
PC/Windows start up = 277.3W (1.286A)
Stressprime Orthos Small FFTs = 297.4W (1.314A)
3Dmark06 = 370.9W (1.629A)
PCMark05 = 322.4W (1.426A)

8800GTS SLI @650/2010
Stressprime Orthos Small FFTs = 307.1W (1.388A)
3Dmark06 = 408.9W* (1.842A) (DMM measured +12v rail min/max/average = 12.22v/12.23v/12.228v)
PCMark05 = 354.1W (1.555A)

* Seems 3Dmark06's HDR/SM3.0 HDR1 test - Canyon test draws the most system power draw in 8800GTS SLI config. While rest of time 3Dmark06 fluctuated between 340-390W system power draw.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
@3006Mhz - 9x334HTT at 1.45v bios (1.408v)

8800GTS SLI @513/1584 stock
PC/Windows start up = 308.2W (1.318A)
Windows Idle = 235.2W
Stressprime Orthos Small FFTs = 337.5W (1.514A) (DMM measured +12v rail min/max/average = 12.23v/12.23v/12.23v)
3Dmark06 = 395.7W (1.757A)
PCMark05 = 345.1W (1.529A)

8800GTS SLI @650/2010
Stressprime Orthos Small FFTs = 297.4W (1.314A)
3Dmark06 = 433.4W (1.934A)
PCMark05 = 375.8W (1.697A)

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Looks like 600W OCZ EvoStream should be able to handle 8800GTS SLI without problems. Specs for 600W OCZ EvoStream power supply

Some info to think about.

For those that are wondering in theory:
* FX-60 stock has TDP = 110W
* Intel Core 2 Duo E6300-6700 = 65W
* Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 @3600Mhz at 1.45v = ~113W
* Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800 = 75W

A single 8800GTS has following requirements according to the box:

Quote:

A 400W PCI Express-compliant system power supply with a combined 12V current rating of 26A or more (Minimum system power requirement based on a typical PC configured with an Intel Core 2 Extreme X6800 processor)

X6800 is around 75 or 6.25A so that leaves 19-20A for single 8800GTS and rest of the system components.

We know from Anandtech testing that a single 8800GTX uses approximately 10W more at idle and 20-30W more under load than a 8800GTS http://www.anandtech.com/printarticle.aspx?i=2873
12-30-2006, 03:42 PM
LisijBOB

hi! great job, but your PSU sucks real! :slapass:
under load

3.3v. - 3.26v. :nono:
5v.- 4.85v.:nono:
12v. - 11.89v.:nono:
12-30-2006, 03:44 PM
eva2000

read above thread posts

Asus PC Probe2 reported PSU rail voltages:
Asus PC Probe2 reported voltages vs Digitech QM1538 Digital Multimeter measurements while under load @2400mhz at 1.3875v bios set (1.28v vcore idle / 1.26v vcore load).

+3.3v rail = 3.26v vs 3.387v real
+5v rail = 4.78-4.89v vs 5.02v real
+12v rail = 11.78v vs 12.23v real
12-30-2006, 05:01 PM
eva2000

Now let's check out nVidia's LinkBoost technology which is available on 680i motherboards when couplied with 79xx/88xx nVidia video cards. Straight from nVidia.com web site pdf tech documents on LinkBoost:

Quote:

NVIDIA LinkBoost technology is a technological advancement that ensures blazing graphics bus speeds, bolstering overall system performance. It features hardware and software innovations within select NVIDIA GeForce graphics processing units and media and communications processor (MCP) products. NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI MCP and NVIDIA nForce 590 SLI AMD MCP are the only core logic platforms that support LinkBoost.

Most PC platforms are designed to provide maximum performance under industry standard specifications. Speed of interlink connections between the various PC components is an influential aspect of performance. Depending on the application, PCI Express, as well as the interchip connection between MCP chips, can significantly affect performance.

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...inkboost_1.jpg

LinkBoost, a feature of the NVIDIA nForce 680i SLI and NVIDIA nForce 590 SLI AMD MCPs, becomes active once the system detects a GPU capable of supporting LinkBoost technology. NVIDIA GeForce 8800 and 7900 GTX are the only GPU add-in cards that support LinkBoost technology. When the supported GPU graphics cards are present, the system automatically recognizes their presence and dynamically boosts PCI Express and MCP HyperTransport bus speeds by 25 percent.

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...inkboost_2.jpg

LinkBoost does not require an NVIDIA SLI–enabled system configuration. The increased PCI Express and MCP HyperTransport bandwidth makes higher data transfer rates across the links possible, allowing more data packets to be transmitted at any time.

Gainward Bliss 8800GTS SLI @621/2052

3dmark06
Linkboost disabled in bios = 15,331
Linkboost enabled in bios = 15,361

Linkboost disabled
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_15331_tn.png

Linkboost enabled
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_15361_tn.png

SM2.0 Score = dropped 0.0688%
HDR/SM3.0 Score = dropped 0.412%
CPU Score = increased 1.28%

Looks like Linkboost didn't do much for the actual GPU component tests ? Might need to test a full range of graphic benchmarks etc to find out.

Notice SPP/MCP PCI-E bandwidth went from 2500Mhz to 3125Mhz exactly 25% increase :)
12-30-2006, 06:18 PM
eva2000

LinkBoost made 3dmark benchmarks a bit unstable it seems so disabled it in bios again.

Gainward Bliss 8800GTS SLI @621/2052

3dmark05
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_22657_tn.png

3dmark2003
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_54770_tn.png
12-30-2006, 07:31 PM
bachus_anonym

Great thread, George :up:

That DDR2-1200... Could you do that speed with any BIOS prior to 0701 (e.g. 0402 or 0505), the one you used for that shot? Also, have you played around to see what max memory frequency you can get? And one more Q - is DDR2-846 about the max you could get stable with 1T?

Thanks! :)
12-30-2006, 08:44 PM
eva2000

423mhz 1T was with 2x512MB OCZ PC5400 XTC Platinum non Micron based so probably limit of ram not board.. on 975x/965P the OCZ 5400 XTC Platinum max out at 440-450mhz 4-4-4-12 at 2.25v

For 600mhz clocks 0505 can probably pull it off but 0701/0505 have buggy vcore and not stable as 0402.

After flashing from 0402 to 0505 to 0701 back to 0505 back to 0402 I can get close to same clocks tested upto 533mhz so far... then jumped to SLI tests hehe

Kingpin, there's some improvement for 3dmark06 for higher mem clocks 400mhz 4-4-4-12 2T auto vs 533mhz 4-4-4-12 2T auto - 533mhz gained 15490 - 15361 = 129pts @621/2052 clocked 8800GTS SLI

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_15490_tn.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_22973_tn.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_54907_tn.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_68690_tn.png
12-30-2006, 09:50 PM
Raja@ASUS

eva the mcp is a very sensitive are on the asus striker, once you get past 1750qfsb for stability testing, after a few hours you get all sort s of artifacts and blips if the mcp is left on auto or veers too high. For higher clocks mcp definatley needs to be hard set around the 210 region. Linkboost is best left off in these situations as you found out..

Great work btw, very well laid out and very informative, keep up the good work..

regards
raja
12-30-2006, 10:10 PM
eva2000

thanks for the info..

Something weird i noticed with linkboost disabled at 1.55v NB volts, ntune shows MCP/SPP PCI-E at 2500mhz.. but raise NB volts to 1.6v with linkboost still disabled, ntune shows MCP PCI-E at 3125mhz ... MCP PCI-E auto scales with NB volts ?
12-30-2006, 11:30 PM
Raja@ASUS

quite possibly, I did not experiment that far, I found it best to hard lock the sucker. That section of this chipset is what holds this board back at the higher fsb clocks for overall stability..

I am waiting a while to see what a new revision brings..

regards
Raja
12-31-2006, 12:04 AM
eva2000

are you refeering to SPP -> MCP ref clock as i have it fixed at 200mhz

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_005.jpg

Looks like 426Mhz 4-4-4-12 1T is faster than 533mhz 4-4-4-12 2T even for 3dmark06

426mhz 4-4-4-12 1T = 15,506
533mhz 4-4-4-12 2T = 15,490

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_15506_tn.png
12-31-2006, 12:12 AM
Raja@ASUS

yep spp>mcp, it works best aorund 200-210 in my experience, on auto with higher fsb it causes issues when it veers over 250.

It's a section of the chipset that some vendors have yet to get a full grip on..

regards
Raja
12-31-2006, 01:22 AM
GAR

spp>mcp works fine for me at 250, also i have locked the pci-e mhz at 125 wich also works like a charm.
12-31-2006, 04:51 AM
flesheatinvirus

125 on the pci-e is excellent, how do you like that Gskill HZ and what ddr v are you feeding it with? I just got in a set of that ram for a E6600 build coming up and was curious as your impression of it with that setup of hardware. Is 1200-1300 possible with that board.
12-31-2006, 05:24 AM
Raja@ASUS

Quote:

Originally Posted by GAR

spp>mcp works fine for me at 250, also i have locked the pci-e mhz at 125 wich also works like a charm.

I had issues with the led poster flashing (even though set to off) and also screen artifacts after 5 hours..

regards
Raja
12-31-2006, 10:30 AM
GAR

well, i havnt played a game for more than 2 hours at a time cuz my head probably would be hurting like crazy, also the lcd poster hasnt had any flickering issue, just checked it, and its normal.
12-31-2006, 10:46 AM
GAR

Quote:

Originally Posted by flesheatinvirus

125 on the pci-e is excellent, how do you like that Gskill HZ and what ddr v are you feeding it with? I just got in a set of that ram for a E6600 build coming up and was curious as your impression of it with that setup of hardware. Is 1200-1300 possible with that board.

The ram is great, but i need to sell it so i can buy 2 exact kits, for 4gb's.
12-31-2006, 09:21 PM
eva2000

Quote:

Originally Posted by GAR

spp>mcp works fine for me at 250, also i have locked the pci-e mhz at 125 wich also works like a charm.

interesting.. i've left PCI-E at 100mhz fixed heh
12-31-2006, 10:26 PM
eva2000
Today's a hot and humid day with room temps at 31.8+ C so decided to make use of the Swiftech Apogee waterblock I bought just before Xmas :)

H20 setup:

Quote:

Swiftech Apogee -> Radiical Triple fan single pass radiator -> T line -> Swiftech MCP655 @12.25v -> Swiftech Apogee

System:
- Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 QPGE B1 Step 5
- Swiftech Apogee/Radiical Triple Single Pass/MCP655@12.25v Kayl Custom 100W Psu
- 2x 640MB Gainward 8800GTS SLI
- Asus 680i Striker Extreme rev1.0 0402 bios
- 1x 160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATA NCQ on SATA2 port
- Pioneer DVR-05 DVD Burner
- 600W OCZ EvoStream Modular Power supply
E6600@9x266 = 2400Mhz at 1.18v
I know it ain't directly comparable with other results as they were run at 0.07v to 0.10v higher vcore. But best to look at the cpu load to room ambient delta figures :)

Idle
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...uz_idle_tn.png

Load
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...95_load_tn.png

Room temp: ~31.8-32.8C
Cooling used: Swiftech Apogee/Radiical Triple Single Pass/MCP655@12.25v Kayl Custom 100W Psu
Bios idle: 31-33C
Windows idle: 35-36C
Windows load: 45-46C
Rise above ambient delta = 12.2-13.8C
Rise above windows idle delta = 9-11C

Looks like moving from Scythe Infinity air cooling to Swiftech Apogee water cooling resulted in drop in temps as follows:
Rise above ambient delta = dropped from 22.2-24.5C to 12.2-13.8C. ~10C drop
Rise above windows idle delta = dropped from 12-14C to 9-11C. ~3C drop.

Quote:

To compare with Scythe Infinity air on Asus 680i Striker Extreme

Idle
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...sfet_nb_sb.png

Prime95 Load
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...ime95_load.png

Room temp: ~29.5-30.8C
Cooling used: Scythe Infinity with mount mod + 1x Thermaltake 120x25mm 81cfm push-pull
Bios idle: 30-31C
Windows idle: 40-41C
Windows load: 53-54C
Rise above ambient delta = 22.2-24.5C
Rise above windows idle delta = 12-14C

Quote:

To compare with H20 cooling on Intel D975XBX Badaxe
At http://i4memory.com/showthread.php?t=3218

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Intel975...ck_compare.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Intel975...k_compare2.png
12-31-2006, 10:39 PM
Timmay

Lots of work there eva... Good job.
01-01-2007, 06:18 AM
eva2000

Thanks Timmay :)

Well without testing optimal voltages, I just shoved 1.6v (1.58v load) vcore and jacked up the FSB to see how it goes with some 3dmarks. 3dmark2003 is usually the 3dmark app which is most stressing on cpu stability often needing lower max cpu mhz to pass compared to other 3dmark05/06 benchmarks.

So started with 3dmark2003.

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_55235_tn.png

That's only 318pts more than my E6600@3600Mhz with 533mhz 4-4-4-12 2T memory run hmmm... probably memory clock related ?

Again it seems 1T is faster.. here's same cpu clock but with 433mhz 4-4-4-12 1T memory clocks. About 65 pts faster than 500mhz 4-4-4-12 2T

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_55300_tn.png
01-01-2007, 12:21 PM
FlyBoyGeo

Awesome work! I am very interested in this board and a e6600.

Looks like there is room for a stock Mach II head and the LGA775 kit.

Thanks.
01-02-2007, 12:18 AM
eva2000
thanks.. yup lots of room around the board for phase!

Well 16k mark fell so easily once I changed to 1T memory speeds. Gainward Bliss 8800GTS SLI stock hsf @621/2052 pulled off 16,143 nicely :)

System:
- Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 QPGE B1 Step 5
- Swiftech Apogee/Radiical Triple Single Pass/MCP655@12.25v Kayl Custom 100W Psu
- 2x 640MB Gainward 8800GTS SLI
- Asus 680i Striker Extreme rev1.0 0402 bios
- 1x 160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATA NCQ on SATA2 port
- Pioneer DVR-05 DVD Burner
- 600W OCZ EvoStream Modular Power supply
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_16143_tn.png

bit higher @648/2052
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_16250_tn.png

Breaks 24k barrirer for 3dmark05 for 8800GTS SLI category :D

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2_24247_tn.png
01-04-2007, 05:31 AM
eva2000

Seems 336-342FSB is where my Q6600 Kentsfield is for max FSB with 0402 bios.

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._validated.png

Excuse the image dimensions for screenshot @13xx X 11xx but only 82-90KB in size :D

Quad threaded Prime95 v25.1 small FFTs loaded
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...95_load_tn.png

Quad threaded Prime95 v25.1 small FFTs post load idle
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...ad_idle_tn.png
01-04-2007, 10:54 PM
eva2000

Seems raising CPU VTT from 1.4v to 1.5v helped but only in conjunction with raising NB volts from 1.55v to 1.65v. 345FSB seems fine so far.

Settings used:

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1380 (means 345FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1380
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 805 (means 402mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 805

Vcore Voltage: 1.425 set (1.31v bios/1.30v windows idle/1.28v windows load - 0505 and higher bios fix the vcore issue but 0402 bios more stable for both my E6600/Q6600 cpus)
Memory Voltage: 2.000v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.65v
SB Core Voltage: 1.50v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.5v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 4
tRCD: 4
tRP: 4
tRAS: 12
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: AUTO
tRC: AUTO
tWR: AUTO
tWTR: AUTO
tREF: AUTO
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...95_load_tn.png
01-05-2007, 02:59 AM
flesheatinvirus

Nice results on the water to air comparison, Im going with the storm block and Thermochill PA+ DD5 pump my self for this 6600.:D
01-05-2007, 07:20 AM
Khaotic

Quote:

Originally Posted by eva2000

Glad you guys like :)

Regarding SLI/Sound:
Still testing ram/settings etc and have yet to try SLI so no idea on sound issue yet. But Asus Striker is different from reference 680i in that it moved the sound off the motherboard to a separate daughter board card which is x1 PCI-E based and slots into the PCI-E slot. From what Andre or someone one this forum has experienced they don't have sound issues when SLI is enabled due to this difference. I can't confirm it until I run SLI later though.

The separate sound card and it's array microphone

http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_067.jpg http://i4memory.com/reviewimages/mot...triker_068.jpg

I have the Striker with 2x eVGA 8800GTX. I put a Sound Blaster X-fi in the PCI slot directly above the bottom PCI-Express. There is still one PCI that I can get to, right under the TOP PCI-Express. The size of the 8800gtx cards pretty much block all other slots.

With SLI enabled, I get horrible sound perfomance/quality in games. Sounds like the audio is coming from a FAN rather than a $100+ sound card. Even during Cut-scenes and game intro's. Turn OFF SLI, and the problem goes away.
01-05-2007, 07:42 AM
eva2000

Quote:

Originally Posted by Khaotic

I have the Striker with 2x eVGA 8800GTX. I put a Sound Blaster X-fi in the PCI slot directly above the bottom PCI-Express. There is still one PCI that I can get to, right under the TOP PCI-Express. The size of the 8800gtx cards pretty much block all other slots.

With SLI enabled, I get horrible sound perfomance/quality in games. Sounds like the audio is coming from a FAN rather than a $100+ sound card. Even during Cut-scenes and game intro's. Turn OFF SLI, and the problem goes away.

tried my suggestions at http://i4memory.com/showthread.php?t=3527 ?

Q6600 kentsfield + Asus 680i Striker Extreme thread has started http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/...d.php?t=129021 :)
01-07-2007, 03:12 AM
eva2000
Swapped out Q6600 Kentsfield cpu and now back to using E6600 with Asus 680i Striker Extreme :)

H20 setup:

Quote:

Swiftech Apogee -> Radiical Triple fan single pass radiator -> T line -> Swiftech MCP655 @12.25v -> Swiftech Apogee

System:
- Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 QPGE B1 Step 5
- Swiftech Apogee/Radiical Triple Single Pass/MCP655@12.25v Kayl Custom 100W Psu
- 2x 640MB Gainward 8800GTS SLI
- Asus 680i Striker Extreme rev1.0 0402 bios
- 2GB OCZ PC8000 Titanium Alpha VX2
- 1x 160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATA NCQ on SATA2 port
- Pioneer DVR-05 DVD Burner
- 600W OCZ EvoStream Modular Power supply
Settings used:

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1601 (means 400FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1600.8
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1165 (means 582.5mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1164.3

Vcore Voltage: 1.525 set (1.4v bios/1.342v windows idle/1.4v windows load - 0505 and higher bios fix the vcore issue but 0402 bios more stable for both my E6600/Q6600 cpus)
Memory Voltage: 2.40v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.65v
SB Core Voltage: 1.50v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 5
tRCD: 4
tRP: 4
tRAS: 4
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: 5
tRC: 1
tWR: 6
tWTR: 8
tREF: AUTO
tRD: AUTO
tRFC: 28
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._validated.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...8s531ms_tn.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...rpi-32m_tn.png

Proof there's more than 1 way to skin a cat - well to get comparable to 965P/975x times for Super Pi

Settings used:

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1601 (means 400FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1600.8
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1165 (means 582.5mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1164.3

Vcore Voltage: 1.525 set (1.4v bios/1.342v windows idle/1.4v windows load - 0505 and higher bios fix the vcore issue but 0402 bios more stable for both my E6600/Q6600 cpus)
Memory Voltage: 2.40v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.65v
SB Core Voltage: 1.50v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 5
tRCD: 3
tRP: 3
tRAS: 4
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: 5
tRC: 1
tWR: 6
tWTR: 8
tREF: AUTO
tRD: AUTO
tRFC: 28
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...4s422ms_tn.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...rpi-32m_tn.png
01-07-2007, 05:19 AM
Mullet

Looking nice...!!

Gonna have a bash at 3.6 on my E6600 and Striker.

Any recommendations on my RAM settings? I am using Corsair PC8500 Dominator

Also....question for you re your vcore setting. In the settings you have quoted vcore as 'SET' and 'in BIOS' the in bios fiigure is 1.4 in the bios....is that the value I have to input in the BIOS or should I put in 1.525?

Thanks bud.
01-07-2007, 05:31 AM
eva2000

vcore depends on your cpu, but the important part is in bios value not what is set... it will vary depending on bios set 0402 had a bug which set vcore lower than the option but for me it's the most stable bios compared to 0505 and 0701
01-07-2007, 07:02 AM
eva2000

Maybe the key to faster pi times is in tRCD or the hidden bios tRD option since 582mhz 5-3-3-4 2T is only 1 second slower than 640mhz 5-4-3-4 2T at same advance timings of 5-1-6-8-28 but tRD are AUTO in both cases. But memset v3.1 beta can't show what bios sets tRD when set at AUTO.

Here's @640mhz 5-4-3-4 2T at 2.5v vdimm set in bios

Settings used:

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1601 (means 400FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1600.8
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1281 (means 640mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1280.1

Vcore Voltage: 1.525 set (1.4v bios/1.342v windows idle/1.4v windows load - 0505 and higher bios fix the vcore issue but 0402 bios more stable for both my E6600/Q6600 cpus)
Memory Voltage: 2.50v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.7v
SB Core Voltage: 1.50v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 5
tRCD: 4
tRP: 3
tRAS: 4
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: 5
tRC: 1
tWR: 6
tWTR: 8
tREF: AUTO
tRD: AUTO
tRFC: 28
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._validated.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...3s532ms_tn.png
01-07-2007, 08:50 AM
sdumper

Having fun it looks like! Way to go Eva good stuff!!!
Eva I hope you dont mind me posting this question in your thread so let me if I should delete it and start a new thread. Here goes:

Who to believe Everest/Speedfan or ASUS PC Probe II (0402/0701 ... 0505 is not stable for me :( )????

First of all i am being lazy because i do have a voltage meter.
Second no i dont know the measuring point for vCore on the Striker.

Now that ive cleared that up here we go.

Anybody know why ASUS Probe reports a completely different vCore number than SpeedFan and Everest? ASUS PC Probe II reports the exact same number as set in the bios but best off of testing the PC Probe number is way off and does not reflect vDroop. Can I trust anything that PC Probe II tells me?
01-07-2007, 09:00 AM
eva2000

Thanks :)

can confirm that part of the key to faster pi times for Asus 680i Striker Extreme is tRD in bios. From testing memtest test #5 at 640mhz 5-4-3-4 2T at 2.5v vdimm, with tRD = AUTO and tRD = 7 ish was same stability. Tighten tRD from AUTO to 6 had 1 or 2 errors in test #5 after a few passes. Testing tRD = 5 had more errors. So dropped mem clocks to 628mhz 5-4-3-4 2T 5-1-6-8-28 with tRD = 5 at still 2.5v vdimm and 32M time was ~1.2 seconds faster than 640mhz 5-4-3-4 2T with tRD = AUTO!

Settings used:

Quote:

AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1601 (means 400FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1600.8
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1257 (means 628mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1256.1

Vcore Voltage: 1.525 set (1.4v bios/1.342v windows idle/1.4v windows load - 0505 and higher bios fix the vcore issue but 0402 bios more stable for both my E6600/Q6600 cpus)
Memory Voltage: 2.50v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.7v
SB Core Voltage: 1.50v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 5
tRCD: 4
tRP: 3
tRAS: 4
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: 5
tRC: 1
tWR: 6
tWTR: 8
tREF: AUTO
tRD: 5
tRFC: 28
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._validated.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...2s313ms_tn.png

I have no idea of the DMM measuring pts on striker either LOL

I never use speedfan... Asus Probe2 while not entirely accurate, i tend to believe more for now unless someone has proof otherwise :)
01-07-2007, 10:21 AM
sdumper

Sdumper shuffles off to find proof... :)

Ok im a little concerned because everest is matching speedfan to... im going to measure myself...
01-07-2007, 10:27 AM
sdumper

measure point are here: http://xtremesystems.org/forums/show....php?p=1925789

same as p5b Deluxe...
01-07-2007, 01:26 PM
Mullet

would you recommend water cooling the northbridge eva? My temps hover around 40 sometimes on my northbridge with voltages @ stock. I note on the Asus Probe readings the DDR2 TERM reading is showing up in red. What does this refer to?
01-08-2007, 07:30 AM
eva2000
thanks sdumper :)

with fan on NB it's pretty cool/not hot even with 1.75v on NB for me

DDR2 Term is memory VTT which should be half of vdimm value.

Moving past 3.6ghz for higher cpu clocks now. Just harder to hit the right unlinked divider for the memory clocks you want :)

System:
- Intel Core 2 Duo E6600 QPGE B1 Step 5
- Swiftech Apogee/Radiical Triple Single Pass/MCP655@12.25v Kayl Custom 100W Psu
- 2x 640MB Gainward 8800GTS SLI
- Asus 680i Striker Extreme rev1.0 0402 bios
- 2GB OCZ PC8000 Titanium Alpha VX2
- 1x 160GB Seagate 7200.7 SATA NCQ on SATA2 port
- Pioneer DVR-05 DVD Burner
- 600W OCZ EvoStream Modular Power supply
@3822Mhz with 2GB OCZ PC8000 Titanium Alpha VX2 @637Mhz 5-4-3-4 2T
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...1s547ms_tn.png

@3922Mhz with 2GB OCZ PC8000 Titanium Alpha VX2 @634Mhz 5-4-3-4 2T
http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680..._validated.png

http://fileshosts.com/intel/Asus/680...7s266ms_tn.png

Don't mind the incorrect labeling of the screenshots, forgot to change it from Q6600 to E6600 after swapped cpus :)
01-08-2007, 05:18 PM
simonk

Hmm I have tried the settings below with same ram, can't get past 1070 FSB for 533 mhz speeds. Is it the high multi :confused:

Settings used:

Quote:
AI Tuning: Manual
Nvidia GPU Ex: Disabled
LinkBoost: Disabled

Multi - 11

FSB - Memory Clock Mode: Unlinked
x FSB - Memory Raio: N/A
FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1601 (means 400FSB)
Actual FSB (QDR), Mhz: 1600.8
MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1257 (means 628mhz speeds)
Actual MEM (DDR), Mhz: 1256.1

Vcore Voltage: 1.75 set (1.632v windows idle - using 0505 bios

Memory Voltage: 2.50v
1.2v HT Voltage: 1.4v
NB Core Voltage: 1.7v
SB Core Voltage: 1.50v
CPU VTT Voltage: 1.4v
DDRII Controller Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel A Ref Voltage: AUTO
DDRII Channel B Ref Voltage: AUTO

tCL (CAS Latency): 5
tRCD: 4
tRP: 3
tRAS: 4
Command Per Clock (CMD): 2 clock (2T)

Advance Memory Settings
tRRD: 5
tRC: 1
tWR: 6
tWTR: 8
tREF: AUTO
tRD: 5
tRFC: 28
Async Latency: AUTO

CPU Spread Spectrum: Disabled
PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
MCP PCIE Spread Spectrum: Disabled
SATA Spread Spectrum: Disabled
LDT Spread Spectrum: Disabled

CPU Internal Thermal Control: Disabled
Limit CPUID MaxVal: Disabled
Enhanced C1 (C1E): Disabled
Execute Disable Bit: Disabled
Virtualization Technology: Disabled
Enhanced Intel Speedstep Tech: Disabled
LDT Frequency: 5x

PCIEX16_1 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_2 Frequency (Mhz): 100
PCIEX16_3 Frequency (Mhz): 100
SPP<->MCP Ref Clock, Mhz: 200
01-08-2007, 11:00 PM
eva2000

0505 and 0701 were less stable for me... i'm using 0402 bios

double check vcore and other voltages are correctly set on a reboot into the bios after saving bios changes

can you show cpuz spd tab screenshot ?

my CPU VTT was set at 1.3v
01-09-2007, 12:26 AM
simonk

2 Attachment(s)

Screenshots attached
01-09-2007, 12:34 AM
Babsy

this probably is a dumb question but is the screenshots in black and white the new thing?that's what i keep seeing nowadays from you guys

anyway i got all my setup now withw quad instead of that e6600 and i'm hoping to see some shots from you guys so i follow suit...i'm still learning :)
01-09-2007, 12:48 AM
Khaotic

Well - to make things more interesting.
My Striker only gives me the crackling sound when I play Battlefield 2142 with SLI enabled. No other game so far has done it.
Prey, Quake 4, Flight Simulator X, and Guild Wars have all been ran and sound was clean.
01-09-2007, 01:11 AM
eva2000

simonk not sure what's up with yours could be your ram not clocking as high as mine or different bios related

Quote:

Originally Posted by Babsy

this probably is a dumb question but is the screenshots in black and white the new thing?that's what i keep seeing nowadays from you guys

greyscale PNG format no resize screenshots - right click on my screenies and view size of file ;) compare that to other similarly large screenies posted by others and you'll see mine are 40-65% smaller in size = faster loading :)
01-13-2007, 05:46 AM
BNDMOD

How i can view the asus probeII like you.. you are watching NB voltaje ddr and more voltaje and information that asus probe can give me :s wath version are you using!!
01-13-2007, 08:53 AM
sdumper

I just flashed back to 0402 and im stumped.
Now Speedfan 4.32 matches ASUS PC Probe II exactly. Previously PC Probe II was reporting higher vcore than speedfan on 0701 leading me to believe that the voltage reported on 0701 is incorrect or 0402 is incorrect. Seeing that 0402 is much more stable I believe the voltage reported by 0402 is reporting lower than actual.

Example: I was not stable on 0701 at 4.4 and reported vcore of 1.65 (speedfan of 1.57) but am reporting 100% stable at 0402 vcore reported 1.63 pc probe II and 1.63 speedfan. So what to believe I really dont know but I am concerned that I am overvolting my chip without knowing it. Unfortunately im on phase so my temps really havent varied much.

Note: on 0402 my vcore is set at 1.75 in the bios :eek:
01-13-2007, 04:19 PM
Lood007

I have found 0402 to be the best in voltage reaction. Unfortunately, it still suffers from vdroop, but at least my selection in BIOS actually has an effect now.

BTW, in 0701, my vcore would change with the strap.
Ex: FSB from 1333 - 1600 = vCore fixed at 1.40v
FSB from 1600+ = vCore fixed at 1.50v
below 1333 vcore reacted to selection in BIOS pretty accurately.

Seems like there is a strap to vcore association mixup.
01-13-2007, 05:31 PM
noobzed

Quote:

Originally Posted by Khaotic

I have the Striker with 2x eVGA 8800GTX. I put a Sound Blaster X-fi in the PCI slot directly above the bottom PCI-Express. There is still one PCI that I can get to, right under the TOP PCI-Express. The size of the 8800gtx cards pretty much block all other slots.

With SLI enabled, I get horrible sound perfomance/quality in games. Sounds like the audio is coming from a FAN rather than a $100+ sound card. Even during Cut-scenes and game intro's. Turn OFF SLI, and the problem goes away.

disapointing ! and LOL ! for the most overpriced mobo of the market !

shame on you Asux.
01-13-2007, 06:19 PM
sdumper

No such issue i have 2 pny 8800gtx cards ... my sounds is awesome as it should be...as well as my overclocks on this board..
01-13-2007, 07:26 PM
Lood007

Quote:

Originally Posted by noobzed

disapointing ! and LOL ! for the most overpriced mobo of the market !

shame on you Asux.

I don't think this gentleman's problem is related to the nVidia issue. I think that there is some instability stemming from some other problem. (Linkboost and too high a NB FSB perhaps?)

I don't know the specifics, so I won't pretend to, but the ASUS boards have been seen working fine with SLi and Creative cards.

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