i5-10400f won't ever boost to 4.3 GHz on single core and is stuck at 3.994 GHz despite the util

[-PS-]

Hi, the title says pretty much what the problem is, it's a bit annoying problem now that I have gotten into benchmarking. How can I help it reach its 4.3 GHz single core boost under single core workload or even get all the core unstuck from 4 GHz clocks all the time? Because that is not normal behaviour, I think. Thanks in advance.

[AndrewG_Intel]

Hello @-PS-

Thank you for posting on the Intel® communities.

In regards to this request, the Intel® Core™ i5-10400F Processor has a "Processor Base Frequency" of 2.90 GHz and the "Max turbo frequency" is 4.30 GHz.

It is worth mentioning that processors do not run at their maximum frequency all the time. The processor automatically selects the best frequency depending on the workload demand. If workload demand is high and there are no physical constraints, then the processor may operate at or close to the turbo frequency.

Maximum turbo frequency indicates the highest possible frequency achievable when conditions allow the processor to enter turbo mode. There are different factors that have an impact on the achievable speed, for instance, processor temperature, type of workload, active cores, power consumption, environment, platform design, etc. Good system integration and thermal design are crucial to get the benefits of Intel® Turbo Boost Technology.

Due to varying power characteristics, some parts with Intel® Turbo Boost Technology may not achieve maximum turbo frequencies when running heavy workloads and/or using multiple cores concurrently. Processors with the same model number running under the same operating conditions may see some frequency or power variance.

Intel® Turbo Boost Technology is enabled by default, and once enabled, it works automatically under operating system control. Intel® Turbo Boost Technology allows the processor cores to run faster than the rated operating frequency if they’re operating below power, current, and temperature specification limits. If the processor is able to go beyond the Processor Base Frequency (2.90 GHz) we can say the feature is working within specifications.

You may review/try these recommendations:

1- Make sure your BIOS is up to date and/or reset BIOS to its defaults. For the latest BIOS and update/reset instructions, please contact the Computer Manufacturer for proper guidance.

2- Make sure the Turbo option (if available in the BIOS) is not disabled. In general, it should be enabled by default. Consult your motherboard/BIOS manufacturer on how to enable Turbo in the BIOS.

3- You may run the Intel® Processor Diagnostic Tool to verify that the processor is working properly.

4- Make sure that your system does not have physical constraints that will prevent the processor from reaching its max turbo frequency. Examples of physical constraints of the processor could be power delivery and thermal solution.

If you are using a third-party thermal cooling solution, make sure it is appropriate for your system. If using an Intel® stock fan heatsink that came with the processor, please check it is properly installed.

Note: In case you need to reset the fan heatsink or re-apply thermal paste, you may refer to these links:

• Resetting Boxed Intel® Processor Fan Heatsink Push Pins
• How to Apply or Remove Thermal Interface Material (TIM)

For any other inquiries, please don't hesitate to contact us back.

Best regards,

Andrew G.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[AndrewG_Intel]

Hello -PS-

We are checking this thread and we would like to know if you were able to review our previous post. Please do not hesitate to contact us back if you have additional inquiries.

Best regards,

Andrew G.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[AndrewG_Intel]

Hello -PS-

We have not heard back from you so we will proceed to close this thread now. If you need any additional information, please submit a new question as this thread will no longer be monitored.

Best regards,

Andrew G.

Intel Customer Support Technician