Overclocking

Overclocking is the practice of running a semiconductor device, most often a processor, at a clock rate higher than the rate its maker rated it for, in order to gain performance. Because higher frequencies usually need higher operating voltage, an overclocked part draws more power and gives off more heat, so it needs better cooling, from larger heat sinks and extra fans to water cooling and, in record attempts, liquid nitrogen or helium. The gamble is real: devices can become unstable, may fail sooner, can silently corrupt data, and in extreme cases are permanently damaged, and many warranties exclude such damage. The article also covers the opposite practice, underclocking, which trades speed for lower power use and quieter operation. Overclocking is mainly an enthusiast pursuit, driven by benchmark competitions and by the wish to match a dearer model with a cheaper part.