First time overclocking a GPU

[Jay1986]

Just bought the PowerColour x1800xt and want to get the most from it. What is the best way to go about overclocking this card? Sorry to ask such a broad, basic question but I don't know any better

 

[semi-pro waster]

ATItool will let you overclock although I've not used it so I don't know how easy it is, presumably it has some sort of detect best/optimal frequencies feature as most tools do. You could use Rivatuner which is very easy to use and offers enough options to keep most people happy.

If you don't use the detect optimal frequencies function then I'd suggest going up in 5mhz or so increments but keep checking the temperature of the graphics card and if you see any artifacts then stop and take it back a further 5 or 10 mhz.

 

[lay-z-boy]

bah, no need to overclock.

 

[semi-pro waster]

bah, no need to overclock.

You didn't just say that, did you? Membership can be revoked y'know


Actually in a way I do agree, most of the time there is no real purpose or benefit, if you enjoy the challenge then fair enough but with an X1800XT then chances are you can run almost any game maxed out without overclocking.

 

[Jay1986]

Just installed ATI Tools and having some problems. When I chick find max core, the screen turns blue and restarts the pc. What is meant to happen? Is the programme totally safe? How can I keep track on the temp on the card?

 

[Vegeta]

lol, dont use find max overclock options its useless with this card, your going to have todo it the hard way

 

[Jay1986]

Right-o looks like I'm doing it manually on overdrive. What is a safe temperature range to keep it in? Do I need to run any programmes after each increase to test it?

 

[Vegeta]

You dont need todo it manually on overdrive, I can gurantee it'll run the full 690/700 on overdrive, use ATI tool to get better clocks.
a 690/700 speed on ATI tool performs better than 690/700 on ati overdrive.