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The VIA C3 processor's specifications suggest great overclocking opportunities. The C3 boasts a small core die size and extremely low thermal loads, even at its highest frequency ratings. It is compatible with the widest variety of popular socket-370 motherboards, plus it offers a decent execution pipeline. Sadly, though, the C3 remains a modest overclocking option for most configurations.
The C3's overclocking potential is highest with lower processor-speed grades. Users may find that the chip responds unfavorably to front-side bus overclocking. Most C3 chips are multiplier unlocked, however, and can scale to an additional 100 MHz. Overclocks can peak at 950 to 1000 MHz for the best .13-micron processors. Multiplier adjustments can be performed directly within Windows using H.Oda's popular WCPUID freeware testing application, which can be obtained at http://www.h-oda.com.
Proper voltage can be a serious concern for the C3. Unlike competing designs from Intel, the C3 is not well suited for large increases in core voltage rates. The fastest .13-micron models are designed for 1.35 core volts; pushing these units beyond 1.4 volts is discouraged because it seriously increases potential for core failure. Earlier .15-micron units typically operate at .16 volts, though it is not wise to attempt more than 1.7 to 1.75 volts when overclocking them.
Expensive cooling solutions are not really necessary when overclocking the VIA C3. This chip accommodates thermal generation loads unparalleled by anything other than the mobile processor families from Intel. However, junking the passive heatsink cooler that many companies ship with the C3 is a good idea. This cheap heatsink can barely pass for a decent socket-7 cooler, it is not a cooler for the overclocking enthusiast. Any quality socket-370 forced-air heatsink should work well for overclocking the C3.
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