Intel, the semiconductor and technology giant that is now partially known for releasing problematic desktop CPUs, may be in need of its best lawyers soon, according to a new website published by Abington Cole + Ellery this week that can confirm the boutique law firm has begun collecting information from consumers who have purchased 13th/14th Gen Intel Core desktop processors (and/or systems) and are experiencing instability issues with these products. The news comes two weeks after Intel published an update regarding its investigation into Raptor Lake processors, revealing that the instability had stemmed from a microcode algorithm that resulted in incorrect voltage requests to the CPUs.
Raptor Lake users are being asked:
- Whether they have purchased an Intel Core 13th or 14th Generation processor, or a computer containing one of these processors.
- Whether they have experienced any problems with an Intel Core 13th or 14th Generation processor.
A summary of the issue from the law firm reads:
- “Recent reports have highlighted instability issues with Intel’s 13th and 14th Generation Core desktop processors. The primary cause of these instabilities has been identified as elevated operating voltages.”
- “Intel’s analysis revealed that a microcode algorithm was incorrectly requesting higher voltages, leading to instability in the processors. This issue apparently does not stem from the earlier resolved via oxidation problem in Intel’s manufacturing process​.”
- “It is being reported that the instability issue affecting Intel’s 13th and 14th Generation Core desktop processors affects potentially all 65W and higher CPUs — including KS, K, KF, and non-K 65W (and higher) versions.”
- “Intel is addressing the problem by releasing a microcode patch that corrects the voltage requests. This patch is scheduled for release to partners by mid-August 2024.”
- “In the meantime, Intel recommends affected users reach out to their customer support for assistance. The company appears to be addressing instability scenarios through continued validation and updates​.”
A call from the r/Intel subreddit for everyone affected to join in:
Abington Cole + Ellery noted:
[Our] website is neither associated with nor authorized by Intel or any affiliated companies. If you are interested in potentially participating as a class representative in a class action lawsuit against Intel regarding Intel Core 13th/14th Generation desktop processor issues, please submit your information via the form to be considered.