Why is my GPU's memory clock always at max?

[SuperMonkey777]

Hi, probably a stupid question, but when running MSI Afterburner I noticed the memory clock is always at 1200MHz(max) even when GPU usage is 0%. The core clock changes between 400-850MHz depending on load. Why is this?

Running a HD5770.

 

[F1aw1ess]

dual monitors?

 

[Orcvader]

dual monitors?

This. If you're running more than one monitor or a 120hz screen the idle core speed raises, while the memory clock speed stays on 100%. This is purely to prevent flickering problems.

 

[SuperMonkey777]

Yes, I'm running dual monitors. Is that what's causing it?

 

[SuperMonkey777]

Ah right thanks guys

 

[Orcvader]

Yes, I'm running dual monitors. Is that what's causing it?

Yup. Don't worry about it, it's perfectly normal.

 

[psychodil]

Some of the older cards used to flicker when memory speed changed, and I think some vendors just used a bios where the memory speed was the same regardless of the power state, so it never flickered.

 

[Orcvader]

Some of the older cards used to flicker when memory speed changed, and I think some vendors just used a bios where the memory speed was the same regardless of the power state, so it never flickered.

Yup... it wasn't fun at all with my old 5770...


On the other hand these hightened idle clocks adds a good 12c to my idle temps with my 7950...

 

[eddyr]

Some ppl have reported success with both monitors running the same res and refresh rate or switching ports used to drive the displays. Otherwise you do just have to live with it im afraid.