Intel is now rolling out a patch to address a CPU bug destabilizing 13th and 14th Generation Core desktop chips, but it might not be the only fix the company has in store. Intel confirmed that it’s distributing the “0x129” microcode patch to motherboard vendors, a day after Asus and MSI released the software fix to consumers through a beta BIOS update. The fix is meant to resolve a software bug that can trigger affected processors to run at higher-than-expected voltage levels, which can crash PCs and potentially cause permanent damage.In its announcement, Intel said the 0x129 microcode patch “will limit voltage requests above 1.55V as a preventative mitigation for processors not experiencing instability symptoms.” Although that should improve stability on the affected processors, the company also hinted that follow-up software patches could be around the corner. “Intel is continuing to investigate mitigations for scenarios that can result in Vmin [minimum operating voltage] shift on potentially impacted Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors. Intel will provide updates by [the] end of August,” the company said. Intel didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment. But in its post, the company notes that the software fix can impact a chip’s performance in limited scenarios. This includes “moderate impacts” in benchmark tests such as “WebXPRT Online Homework” and “PugetBench GPU Effects Score.”“For gaming workloads tested, performance has also been within run-to-run variation (eg. Cyberpunk 2077, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Warhammer III – Mirrors of Madness) with one exception showing slightly more impact (Hitman 3: Dartmoor),” the company added. “However, system performance is dependent on configuration and several other factors.”PC reviewer JayzTwoCents tested the patch and found it only causes a 2% performance drop at most in return for stability. But the bigger question is how the 0x129 microcode fix fares over time when the CPU bug has hurt Intel’s reputation as a trusted PC chip provider.
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The microcode update is also merely a preventative measure to address the CPU voltage bug. If an affected Intel CPU suffers repeated crashes, then the elevated voltage levels may permanently degrade the chip. In response, the company has pledged to supply affected customers with replacement CPUs at no extra cost through Intel’s warranty program. In the meantime, Intel’s post on Friday noted that the 0x129 microcode update will only be available through motherboard BIOS updates rather than a Windows OS patch. So, affected owners will need to re-flash the BIOS on their motherboard to properly install the fix.The chipmaker added: “For unlocked Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors, this latest microcode update (0x129) will not prevent users from overclocking if they so choose. Users can disable the eTVB setting in their BIOS if they wish to push above the 1.55V threshold.” That said, any overclocking might void the chip’s warranty, Intel added.
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