Intel Finds Cause of CPU Overheating, Releases Fix

Meta Llama

Published on 09/27/2024

Image: BLKstudio / Shutterstock.com

Intel has finally identified the root cause of the overheating issue in its 13th- and 14th-generation Core CPUs. The problem, which has been causing crashes and permanent damage to the processors, has been a major concern for users throughout the year.

The Four Causes of Intel CPU Damage

According to Intel, the issue is caused by something called “Vmin shift instability,” which is an unexpected increase in the minimum operating voltage. This can lead to repeated crashes and error messages. However, the cause of Vmin shift instability can arise from several different reasons, making it difficult to address.

Intel’s extensive investigation has finally uncovered the various causes of Vmin shift instability in Core CPUs. These causes include:

Motherboard power delivery settings exceeding Intel power guidance. Mitigation: Intel Default Settings recommendations for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors.

eTVB Microcode algorithm which allows Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen i9 desktop processors to operate at higher performance states even at high temperatures. Mitigation: microcode 0x125 addresses eTVB algorithm issue.

Microcode SVID algorithm requesting high voltages at a frequency and duration which can cause Vmin shift. Mitigation: microcode 0x129 addresses high voltages requested by the processor.

Microcode and BIOS code requesting elevated core voltages which can cause Vmin shift especially during periods of idle and/or light activity. Mitigation: Intel is releasing microcode 0x12B, which addresses elevated voltage requests by the processor during idle and/or light activity periods.

What to Expect from the BIOS Update

The new BIOS update will not change the performance of processors, but it will prevent unaffected CPUs from encountering Vmin shift instability in the future. However, if your CPU has already suffered from Vmin shift, the BIOS update will not help you because the damage is irreversible.

How to Get the BIOS Update

Intel is delivering the microcode patch to motherboard manufacturers, who will then provide it to their respective users via BIOS updates. Check in regularly with your motherboard manufacturer’s support pages and keep an eye out for the appropriate BIOS update download.