Computers & Laptops

[jay13]

Was going the futureshop website when i came across the HP 14.0" AMD Quad-Core A6-3400M Laptop, i noticed it said the processor speed was from 1.4GHz to 2.3GHz, i was wondering if anyone out there knew how it can be run at 2.3GHz at most times, or only at 2.3GHz?  

thanks in advance 

[roparadi · Accepted solution]

It uses a technology to 'boost' the clock of the processor when it's under heavy load, so if you run something that requires processing power, you get that extra 'boost' of speed. When not running anything CPU intensive, it runs at the slower speed and uses less power. You don't do anything to make it work that way, it does it all for you.

[jay13]

Oh, ok. Thanks, I understand that. 

I heard from people that it is possible to increase the processor speed by "overclocking", just wanted to know your opinions on that?

And also, how would i know that the laptop would be running 1.4GHz and if it was at 2.0 or 2.3Ghz?

thank you

[roparadi]

Typically you wouldn't know what it was currently running at, AMD just manages all that behind the scenes. As for overclocking, I only recommend that for the hardcore, those that are experienced with computer hardware and troubleshooting.

[HP_fan]

Just to add to that, the AMD A6 is a very fast APU. Not sure what your usage is to want to overclock but I don't think you can overclock a laptop the way it is as manufacturer motherboards most likely prohibit this as well as a security measure since overclocking also adds heat to the CPU/APU and can weaken it's life if not cooled properly. That quad core machine is mega fast for most needs including gaming.