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

[Thomas_Hannaford]

*9/25/24 - Please go to the following link for the latest updates: Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen Desktop Processor Vmin Instability Issue Root Cause*

Intel is currently distributing to its OEM/ODM partners a new microcode patch (0x129) for its Intel Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processors which will address incorrect voltage requests to the processor that are causing elevated operating voltage.

For all Intel Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processor users: This patch is being distributed via BIOS update and will not be available through operating system updates. Intel is working with its partners to ensure timely validation and rollout of the BIOS update for systems currently in service.

Instability Analysis Update – Microcode Background and Performance Implications

In addition to extended warranty coverage, Intel has released three mitigations related to the instability issue – commonly experienced as consistent application crashes and repeated hangs – to help stabilize customer systems with Intel Core 13th and 14th gen desktop processors:
1. Intel default settings to avoid elevated power delivery impact to the processor (May 2024)
2. Microcode 0x125 to fix the eTVB issue in i9 processors (June 2024)
3. Microcode 0x129 to address elevated voltages (August 2024)

Intel’s current analysis finds there is a significant increase to the minimum operating voltage (Vmin) across multiple cores on affected processors due to elevated voltages. Elevated voltage events can accumulate over time and contribute to the increase in Vmin for the processor.

The latest microcode update (0x129) will limit voltage requests above 1.55V as a preventative mitigation for processors not experiencing instability symptoms. This latest microcode update will primarily improve operating conditions for K/KF/KS processors. Intel is also confirming, based on extensive validation, all future products will not be affected by this issue.

Intel is continuing to investigate mitigations for scenarios that can result in Vmin shift on potentially impacted Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors. Intel will provide updates by end of August.  

Intel’s internal testing – utilizing Intel Default Settings - indicates performance impact is within run-to-run variation (eg. 3DMark: Timespy, WebXPRT 4, Cinebench R24, Blender 4.2.0) with a few sub-tests showing moderate impacts (WebXPRT Online Homework; PugetBench GPU Effects Score). For gaming workloads tested, performance has also been within run-to-run variation (eg. Cyberpunk 2077, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Warhammer III – Mirrors of Madness) with one exception showing slightly more impact (Hitman 3: Dartmoor). However, system performance is dependent on configuration and several other factors.

For unlocked Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors, this latest microcode update (0x129) will not prevent users from overclocking if they so choose. Users can disable the eTVB setting in their BIOS if they wish to push above the 1.55V threshold. As always, Intel recommends users proceed with caution when overclocking their desktop processors, as overclocking may void their warranty and/or affect system health. As a general best practice, Intel recommends customers with Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors utilize the Intel Default Settings.

In light of the recently announced extended warranty program, Intel is reaffirming its confidence in its products and is committed to making sure all customers who have or are currently experiencing instability symptoms on their 13th and/or 14th Gen desktop processors are supported in the exchange process. Users experiencing consistent instability symptoms should reach out to their system manufacturer (OEM/System Integrator purchase), Intel Customer Support (boxed processor), or place of purchase (tray processor) further assistance.

FURTHER READING:

• June 2024 Intel Default Settings Guidance
• August 2024 Warranty Extension Details

[Synkli]

To update the microcode (0x129) for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen Desktop Processors, follow these steps:

1. Check Current Microcode Version: Verify your current microcode version using tools like CPU-Z or by checking your system’s BIOS/UEFI information.

2. Download Update: Visit the Intel website or your motherboard manufacturer’s support page to download the latest microcode update for your processor.

3. Update BIOS/UEFI: Often, microcode updates are included in BIOS/UEFI firmware updates. Download the latest BIOS/UEFI version from your motherboard manufacturer's website and follow their instructions to update it.

4. Apply Update: If a standalone microcode update is available, follow the instructions provided by Intel or your motherboard manufacturer to apply it. This may involve using tools like Intel’s Microcode Update Utility.

5. Restart and Verify: After applying the update, restart your computer and verify the microcode version again to ensure the update was successful.

Always back up important data before performing firmware or microcode updates to avoid potential issues.

[AlHill]

@Synkli   In your chatGPT response, just exactly where is the cpu microcode version in CPU-Z?.

Doc (not an Intel employee or contractor)
[If you find any Intel driver you might need, download and save it now.]

[NYC_Fanboy]

CPU-Z doesn't show Microcode, XTU for instance does (System Information tab).

[AlHill]

@NYC_Fanboy   Correct.  And HWiNFO shows the code version as well.  My point is to show this chatGPT responder that he is incorrect.

Doc (not an Intel employee or contractor)
[If you find any Intel driver you might need, download and save it now.]

[Calichou]

CPU-Z does show the microcode version. 

In CPU-Z click on the arrow next to Tools then click Save Report As .TXT or .HTML then search for microcode. 

[pressed_for_time]

So CPU-Z doesn't show the microcode version. But if you save a report file and go through it you can find the microcode version.

Or just run something HWINFO64 that shows the value directly?

[zeki1]

14700K mine, the problem is VR VOUT, with microcode 0x129.

If VR VOUT below 1.22v, mostly GPU won't load and game crash.

Tested with cinebench 2024 GPU option, for make it sure.

I analyze, my problem about LLC loadline which cannot set level 2, because it will fall below 1.22v and will make game crash.

My temporary solution is set LLC loadline STATIC/level 1 to prevent VR VOUT fall below 1.22v . Tested with 24 hours cinebench 2024 GPU option, and standby open multiple game for 24 hours, if VR VOUT doesn't fall below 1.22v, the game will NOT crash.

Is my 14700K broken??

Additional information :

With microcode 0x125, GPU still load if VR VOUT 1.21v

0x125 is more tolerate 0.01v , than 0x129

0x125 can bot in windows and run cinebench 2024, with static VR VOUT 1.21v

but 0x129 get BSOD on bot, with static VR VOUT 1.21v

[Gil4]

What windows registry key value is reported for the before and after intel microcode versions?

What is the windows registry key value for the Intel microcode version that caused the incorrect voltage request?