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While this book covers most of what you are likely to face when overclocking, the techniques involved can change as new computing architectures appear and technology evolves. Thankfully, the x86 architecture itself imposes some restrictions, which will allow the information here to be used across a wide range of both current and future systems. While each new design introduces additional performance features, overclocking concepts remain relatively similar for all x86 platforms.
Overclocking grows out of qualities inherent in the manufacturing of integrated circuit products. Manufacturers choose to market microprocessors at various speed grades, effectively holding back any given processor from its maximum potential. In turn, overclocking enthusiasts opt to push their systems as far as they can. They do this either because they want to extend the useful life of an existing system or because they want to purchase a slower rated and thus cheaper system and get more performance from it. The process of overclocking can also be addictive: some people thrive on the challenge of attaining maximum performance for the least amount of money.
The premise of overclocking is that it is possible to improve computing performance, either by raising the operating frequency of the primary processor-to-system bus on the motherboard or by remapping the internal clock multiplier of the processor. The methods involved may be different for each specific processor across the wide range of products offered by Intel, AMD, and VIA. The original idea remains the same for all platforms, but its application can vary wildly for each of the popular architectures.
Many secondary factors play key roles in reaching and maintaining peak operating speeds for an overclocked system. Proper thermal regulation, through the implementation of active and passive cooling technologies, builds the foundation for success. Problems can arise, however, even with the best configurations, so troubleshooting will almost certainly be necessary. Once overclocking has been attempted, benchmarking enables enthusiasts to analyze stability problems and measure positive performance returns.
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