14700K and Asus Z790 ProArt - Thoughts on lowering AC Loadline from 1.1 to, say, 0.2?

[BrianMH]

Hi,

Lots of discussions online of course about 13/14 Gen CPUs and issues.  I updated to Asus's 2402 BIOS version, the one with 0x125 microcode fix.

I noticed afterwards higher than expected temps and worse performance.

After reading about AC Load Line and how it can be advantageous to lower AC Load line - 13/14th gen "Intel baseline" can still degrade CPU, even ...Reddit · r/intel1K+ comments · 1 week ago - I lowered it from 1.1 to 0.2.  

I have seen in some statements that AC Loadline should equal DC Loadline.  But couldn't find the rationale.

Here is what I did beyond the intel baseline:

- Disable Adaptive Turbo Boost

- Lowered AC Loadline from 1.1 to 0.2, after experimenting to determine how low I can set it before stability issues arise. Intel XTU stress test fails if it is lower than 0.1

- Set IA VR Voltage Limit 1.4

- Disabled IA CEP

With these changes, I find:

- Temp during stress goes from low 90's to low 80s

- Vcore avg under stress goes from 1.32 to 1.16

- Package power goes from 253 maxing out to 220.

- Performance increase by about 6%

So I am trying to get better feel for whether my changes make sense.  Stats tell me it was good change, but I don't know if this AC Loadline value is potentially dangerous.

Thoughts from an intel engineer?

thanks

[DeancR_Intel]

Hi BrianMH,

I apologize for the inconvenience this issue might have caused you and for the delay in our response in the previous days.

Upon checking, there's a new BIOS update available for your motherboard Version 2504. Please see the link for reference:

ProArt Z790-CREATOR WIFI｜Motherboards｜ASUS Global

Just to add, as a general best practice Intel recommends users adhere to Intel Default Settings on their desktop processors. Intel is not changing the tuning capabilities of existing K sku processors. Users who desire to overclock or utilize higher power delivery settings than recommended can still do so at their own risk as overclocking may void warranty or affect system health (learn more at Overclock Your CPU with Unlocked Intel® Processors - Intel).

You may also refer to this link that may help you:

Microcode (0x129) Update for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen Desktop Processors - Intel Community

For more details about the Warranty of Intel processors, kindly check this link:

Warranty Guide for Intel® Processors

We can help you with the troubleshooting if you want, however if you really wish to claim warranty, please contact your local warranty support team for them to gather the needed details and validate your processor. Kindly open the link below and choose your country to contact your local Warranty Team.

Contact Intel for Your Support Solutions

If you have questions, please let us know.

Best regards,

Dean R.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[DeancR_Intel]

Hi BrianMH,

I wanted to follow up on the previous message regarding your inquiry. Have you had a chance to review it? If you have any questions or need further information, please let me know.

Best regards,

Dean R.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[DeancR_Intel]

Hi BrianMH,

I have not heard back from you so I will close this inquiry now. If you need further assistance, please submit a new question as this thread will no longer be monitored.

Best regards,

Dean R.

Intel Customer Support Technician