CPUFreq Issue

[PC70]

Hi,

I am using an old computer (with i7-4790K CPU) which has served well for a long time. Recently it has been unable to complete virus scans and the blue screen appears when running the virus scans. I ran the Intel Processor Diagnostic Tool and it failed at "CPUFreq". The expected CPU frequency for my CPU is 4.0Ghz but am only getting around 0.8Ghz base.

Is there anything I can do? Is this a CPU issue or motherboard? Any assistance would be appreciated. Thanks!

 

[n_scott_pearson]

The most likely cause of this issue is that the processor is overheating in this and previous tests and is being throttled (this is what locks the clock at 0.8GHz). This being the case, the processor cooling solution is either inadequate, improperly configured or working improperly. The typical reason is the latter and the typical reason for this occurring in older PCs like this is because the Thermal Interface Material (TIM - heatsink paste) has either dried up or separated (or both) and is not transferring heat efficiently. In this case, the solution is to remove the cooling solution from processor, clean the old TIM off the top surface of the processor and the bottom surface of the heatsink/block and then reinstall using new TIM.

Hope this helps,

...S

[PC70]

Thanks Scott, I replaced the CPU fan with a new unit and got the thermal paste sorted, as suggested. Ran the Intel Processor Diagnostic Tool again, first test run blue screen, the second test run had the same CPUFreq Fail result. Test date 26 Oct 2022.  Looks like it's time for my CPU? Perhaps just finding another i7-4790k might help?

Much appreciated,

Pak

   

[AlHill]

What is your motherboard model number?

Doc (not an Intel employee or contractor)
[Maybe Windows 12 will be better]

[PC70]

Hi, I am using an Asus Maximus VII Hero motherboard. 

[DeividA_Intel]

Hello PC70,  

Thank you for posting on the Intel® communities.   

Due to this product being discontinued, Intel Customer Service no longer supports inquiries for it, but perhaps fellow community members have the knowledge to jump in and help. You may also find the Discontinued Products website helpful to address your request. Thank you for understanding.  

Discontinued Products: 

• https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/discontinued-products.html 

Please keep in mind that this thread will no longer be monitored by Intel.  

Regards,  

Deivid A.  

Intel Customer Support Technician