overclocking

Overclocking refers to configuring a computer hardware component to operate at a faster rate than was certified by the original manufacturer, generally specified as a given clock frequency in Megahertz (MHz) or Gigahertz (GHz). Commonly the operating voltage of the overclocked device is also increased, which can help with maintaining the component's operational stability at the accelerated speeds (margin). However a given semiconductor device inherently will generate more heat when operated at higher frequencies and voltages - thus most overclocking attempts will increase power consumption and heat as well. Careful consideration must be made for removing the additional heat load and ensuring that supporting power delivery components can handle the increased power demands requested by the device, otherwise it may not operate reliably or even fail outright at the increased speed.