14700kf unstable

[Fixxer]

Hello,

Considering that Intel supposedly resolved all the voltage problems with the latest f30 bios updated, I've upgraded from a 12600k to 14700kf în order to prolong the life of my current platform.
My motherboard is not the best, but still should support the 14700kf without issues - Gigabyte B660m.
With Bios default settings + xmp + gaming profile, the system randomly reboots after very short gaming sessions, although the temperatures are rather normal (around 80 degrees).
After trying some undervolting and other various bios settings, I've come to realize that the only tweak necessary that helps the system to be stable is to limit the "IA VR Voltage Limit".
I've started with 1.4V, but the max boost dropped to around 5.0Ghz. Gradually I've raised the voltage limit to 1.5V (though in Hwinfo it never exceeds 1.4V) and the max boost raised to about 5.2-5.3Ghz,but still a bit lower than the stock settings of around 5.6Ghz.
I've tested in multiple synthetic benchmarks and a couple of gaming benchmarks and the system is stable, with temperatures with an average of 75 degrees.
I have the following questions now:
- the mediocre Gigabyte B660m could prevent the Cpu running normally at default settings and max boost of 5.6Ghz?
- would it help improving my cooling solution to an AIO (though temperatures seem not to be an issue, except running benchmarks like cpu-z and xtu when it overheats and thermal throttle). I currently have an air cooled arctic freezer 34 eSports duo, but I've seen lots complaining about similar issues which were having the best Noctua cooler;
- are the voltage issues really fixed with the latest microcode patch within the f30 latest gigabyte bios? I have doubts now about my decision to upgrade the cpu with another Intel, considering the fact that the system is stable only after limiting voltages;
- or am I just unlucky on the "silicon lottery" and I should better return this cpu and get a replacement?

Thank you!

[DhannielM_Intel]

Hi Fixxer, 

Thanks for posting in the community. Allow me to address a few of your inquiries in this thread.Firstly, your initial question seems to be ambiguous. Could you please elaborate on it further?

Secondly, the microcode update 0x12B and the latest BIOS update may provide some improvements for systems experiencing instability. However, Intel still recommends that users adhere to the relevant Intel Default Settings for their Intel Core 13th and/or 14th Gen desktop processors and ensure they are running the latest BIOS for their systems.

Regarding the cooling solution, upgrading your CPU cooler to a better one, such as an AIO, can still be significant. It will help reduce the temperature, even if just a little, and may improve the performance of your processor as well.

If you are experiencing any instability symptoms with 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors, I would advise contacting your system manufacturer if you have Tray processors. If you have a Boxed processor, please contact us through our support website: Intel Support.

Let me know if you have other inquiries that I can help you with.

Best regards,

Dhanniel M.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[JeanetteC_Intel]

Hello Fixxer,

Were you able to check the previous post? 

Let us know if you have any questions.

Best regards,

JeanetteC.

Intel Customer Support Technician

[Fixxer · Accepted solution]

Hello,

Thanks for your replies.

I was investigating and just come up with a conclusion that my PSU was insuficient after adding the i7 14700kf,though I had a 850w PSU.

I've upgraded to a 1000w Seasonic PSU and the CPU runs as it should.

I've upgraded also the motherboard to a MSI Z790 with DDR5, but the system was crashing after the motherboard upgrade, therefore I've ended up with the PSU upgrade also and everything is fine now.

Maybe this thread will be useful for other upgrading to the i7.

Thanks!

[JeanetteC_Intel]

Hello Fixxer,

Good day!

I highly appreciate your sharing this helpful information. I'm glad your PSU upgrade helped fix the issue.

I'll proceed in closing this thread now. Should you need assistance in the future, please submit a new question as this thread will no longer be monitored.

Sincerely,

JeanetteC.

Intel Customer Support Technician