Over-clocking basically means increasing the computers performance by altering default settings of existing components. It’s like getting an upgrade without actually buying any extra hardware. Keep in mind that over-clocking hardware for greater performance is no simple task; not only that, it can damage your system components – in some cases cause irreparable damage. Therefore it is advised to tread cautiously so that you can over-clock hardware safely. Typically the processor, memory and graphics card are over-clocked using the motherboard. The tips below will help you over-clock your hardware safely.
 

Tip 1
When components are over-clocked, they operate in over-drive and therefore heat up faster. It is critical to keep the temperature low to prevent over-heating and damage to the system. Therefore in order to over-clock hardware safely, you must create plenty of airflow in the casing. Install 80mm or 120mm fans that directly serve as coolers and exhausts for your components

Tip 2
It is pointless over-clocking if your power supply unit doesn’t have the juice to support it. Furthermore you need to ensure you own a branded reputable power supply for safe over-clocking as some units tend to give-in under the slightest pressure which can cause the system to halt or send erratic voltages thereby damaging your components.

Tip 3
Get to know your hardware components and their default settings. Check the processor’s clock speed, its bus speed, the graphic cards memory cycle and chip speed, the memory’s timings and latency and the motherboard’s BIOS features. It is the motherboard that ultimately decides how far you can push your hardware. These days the latest high-end motherboards come with extremely user friendly over-clocking features.

Tip 4
When you want to over-clock hardware safely, it is important to establish a baseline and expect a realistic performance jump. By running benchmark tools such as 3DMark and Sandra, establish where your system currently stands and target realistic performance upgrades. Don’t expect 100% performance increments as that is extremely risky and in some cases, down-right impossible.

Tip 5
Finally, it’s necessary to make sure the system remains stable in its over-clocked state. Instead of making a big performance leap, over-clock the components about 5%. Reboot the system and check for stability issues. Check whether the cooling and power system can keep the system stable and that the core functions are intact. If so, take it up another 5% and re-check.

There is no point in over-clocking if it leaves your system unstable and damaged. Take into account the tips above to over-clock your hardware safely.