ASUS, ASRock and MSI offer overclocking-like function for B460/H470/H410 with non-K CPUs

A couple of weeks ago we wrote about OC Mode, a new function from ASRock that enables "overclocking" of Intel non-K series processors on 400-series motherboards. ASRock isn't the only motherboard maker offering this as ASUS and MSI also implemented this method to offer overclocking-like functionality for non-K Intel Core processors on motherboards with the B460, H410, and H470 chipsets.

VideoCardz explains how it works over here. Technically, it isn't really overclocking but adjusting the timing these processors run at an increased power load. In simple terms, it means the CPU will run at a higher Boost frequency.

More importantly, the duration turbo state is allowed to continue is defined by Tau. For the 10th Gen Core K-series, this value is 56 seconds. In reality, Tau is just a recommendation. Motherboard manufacturers can set this value to, let’s say, 999 and basically allow the turbo to persist for an infinite time.

By adjusting Tau, PL1 and PL2 manufacturers are allowed to keep Intel Core processors run at higher power for a longer period of time. This feature is being used by manufacturers with B460 and H470 motherboards. These are the chipsets designed for non-K Core processors (overclocking locked). It means that despite not being able to change the clock of the processor, an increased power limit will still make them run with at higher turbo frequency.

So far, it doesn't seem like Intel is cracking down on this but that may change of course.