Fluctuating CPU

[chilliman]

Not sure if this is the correct forum to post this as it seems to cover other threads too.
Just installed a Gigabyte GA-F2A88xm-HD3, amd A10 6800K, 8gb Corsair Vengeance ram (2x4gb sticks) Using a third party cooler Noctua LH12 because of smaller case. No overclocking has been done, I wanted to make sure all was ok before attempting any.

In the bios the cpu frequency sits fairly stable at 4094.37 mhz.

Back in Windows 7 SP1 checking CPU Z v1.69 the core speed fluctuates between 1995 mhz bus speed 99.80,  2002 & 3003 mhz  bus speed 100.12  2017 mhz  bus speed 100.12 and 4337 mhz bus speed 100.87 multiplier x43 (20-44) The core speed is constantly changing with these numbers. I thought it would remain around 4.10

Is this normal for the above setup

[Vezina]

It is ok.
You can lock those via BIOS ,or at least by setting them at fixed clocks ,mostly referring to NB clock here ,they should stay where you want them

It s power management at work ,but setting the NB clock at 2200 Mhz ( as seen in BIOS ,in CPU -Z will double)) fixed should be no problem ,you will get a more responsive desktop.Just set the multiplier in BIOS accordingly.

Do not worry ,it s ok

You can additionally , using HW Info and RIva Tuner statistics server ,to see if the highest clocks are achieved when there is the need ,like when playing a game.

[Tiger]

Under certain circumstances you may find that the AMD Processor or APU does not run at the highest frequency as stated in the specification. The frequency varies with the changes in the system’s workload.

If you don't want the power saving features active then disable Cool & Quiet and C6 Mode in the BIOS.

Low power P states for your APU are:
 #1: 3800 MHz, 0.9V
 #2: 3200 MHz, 0.675V
 #3: 2600 MHz, 0.45V
 #4: 2000 MHz, 0.25V

[chilliman]

Thanks very much gentlemen, I feel a bit easier now and I've taken in what you said. I don't know how much of a saving there is on power saving on the electricity bill using the power saving features.

Would I be right in thinking if it is not constantly running at full power then the components might last a little longer?

I'll experiment with full power and see what difference is on the desktop.

Thanks

[Vezina]

Maybe the APU VRM stays more cool using this dynamic approach.
Make sure there is airflow near the APU and durability remains to be seen in time.