MSI 990XA User Guide - Page 50

BIOS Setup Enter "Overclocking" and set "Unlock CPU Core" to [Enabled]. Save changes and exit the BIOS setup. Set "Adjust CPU-NB Ratio" and "HT Link Speed" to [x8]. System restart. Fail Success You will see the "X4" (quad core) or "X2" (dual core for Sempron series only) during POST. AMD Phenom(tm) II X4 Processor AMD Sempron(tm) II X2 Processor Clear CMOS data. The CPU does not support CPU core unlock, please leave the default settings for system. Important • This CPU core unlocked behavior depends on the CPU ability/ characteristic, and it is not guaranteed. • Depend on CPU's characteristic, once you get instable scenario, please restore the default settings for system. • You can also check the core numbers in performance tab of Windows task manager. ▶ OC Genie Lite Setting this item to [Enabled] allows the system to detect the maximum FSB clock and to overclock automatically. If overclocking fails to run, you can try the lower FSB clock for overclocking successfully. ▶ Spread Spectrum When the mainboard's clock generator pulses, the extreme values (spikes) of the pulses create EMI (Electromagnetic Interference). The Spread Spectrum function reduces the EMI generated by modulating the pulses so that the spikes of the pulses are reduced to flatter curves. Important • If you do not have any EMI problem, leave the setting at [Disabled] for optimal system stability and performance. But if you are plagued by EMI, select the value of Spread Spectrum for EMI reduction. • The greater the Spread Spectrum value is, the greater the EMI is reduced, and the system will become less stable. For the most suitable Spread Spectrum value, please consult your local EMI regulation. • Remember to disable Spread Spectrum if you are overclocking because even a slight jitter can introduce a temporary boost in clock speed which may just cause your overclocked processor to lock up. 3-14