Computers

Computer Hardware: Overclocking Heat Sinks

Overclocking heat sinks are the first thing you will want to buy if you are going to try to overclock your system. The heat sink is the simplest method available for dispersing heat off of a CPU. That doesnt mean it should be overlooked. Overclocking heat sinks can be used in conjunction with almost any other cooling method, thus giving you more bang for your buck.

A heat sink is a piece of metal attached directly to the CPU. Its purpose is to draw as much heat as possible away from the CPU and spread that heat over as much surface area as possible. By spreading out the heat of a greater surface area, the heat has more contact with the cool air around. Consequently, the heat is transferred to the air, bringing the overall temperature of the overclocking heat sink/CPU down.

Understanding Overclocking Heat Sinks: Why Overclock?
Why not? Its like driving a car above the posted speed limit. You should only go 55mph, but you know you can push up to 80mph if nobody is watching. The real reason–it improves performance at very little cost. Most overclockers are trying to either produce the fastest desktop system possible or extend their processing power on a limited budget. Overclocking allows a user to boost his or her system performance 25% or more!

The biggest drawback to overclocking a processor is that overclocking voids any warranty provided by the manufacturer. Warranties only cover parts that are used according to the manufacturers rated specifications. Overclocking a part tends to reduce its lifespan. If you really make a mistake, you can fry the part outright. Thats why all overclocking guides on the Internet have a disclaimer warning individuals of these dangers.