Intel has confirmed that it and its partners are continuing to investigate user reports regarding instability issues on its 13th and 14th Gen Core (K/KF/KS) desktop processors, and with it comes a confirmation that one of the contributing factors is elevated voltage input to the processor due to BIOS settings, which could lead to the CPUs operating at turbo frequencies and voltages even at a high temperature. The company also says that there’s a bug relating to the Enhanced Thermal Velocity Boost (eTVB) algorithm, and while this problem isn’t a root cause for the instability, motherboard partners are expected to roll out a patch for that next month.
Intel writes:
- “Intel analysis has determined a confirmed contributing factor to the instability reports on Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors is elevated voltage input to the processor due to previous BIOS settings which allow the processor to operate at turbo frequencies and voltages even while the processor is at a high temperature.”
- “…in investigating this instability issue Intel did discover a bug in the Enhanced Thermal Velocity Boost (eTVB) algorithm which can impact operating conditions for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors.”
- “We have developed a patch for the eTVB bug and are working with our OEM/ODM motherboard partners to roll out the patch as part of BIOS updates ahead of July 19th, 2024. While this eTVB bug is potentially contributing to instability, it is not the root cause of the instability issue.”
- “…we want to make sure that all users are clear on the recommended power delivery profile settings for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors.”
- “These recommended settings are developed – based on extensive testing and validation – to ensure optimal stability and reliability for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors. System performance is dependent on configuration and several other factors.”
Intel’s recommendations:
An additional note from Intel:
As we noted earlier, this investigation is not an easy one to conduct and we’re grateful for both the support of our partners in conducting the analysis as well as the patience of the Intel community. In the interim, please reach out to Intel Customer Support if you have questions or concerns regarding your Intel Core 13th or 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processor.