Overclocking The Graphics Memory

Let's start by overclocking the first GPU's memory clock, as it is selected by default. Overclock it in small steps. On our testbed, each scroll step on the mouse increased the memory clock speed by 34 MHz, so we overclocked in steps of 34 MHz. After selecting the new memory clock speed, click Apply. Then test it out using a real 3D game like Crysis or Far Cry 2.

When you test the overclocked card, be sure to note any visual abnormalities like corrupted textures. The game may even hang. This is a sign that one or more of the memory chips is failing at that clock speed. When that happens, reduce the memory clock by one step. If the game runs well, increase the memory clock by another step. Keep doing this until you discover the highest clock speed at which the memory chips are stable.

Once you are satisfied, you might want to reduce the memory clock speed by one step for added stability (in case of temperature or voltage changes). Otherwise, it's time to overclock the GPU!

Overclocking The GPU

First, restore the memory clock to its default clock speed. Then repeat the same steps as above for the GPU. On our testbed, each scroll step on the mouse increased the GPU clock speed by 19 MHz, and the shader clock by 46 MHz. Although you can overclock the core and shader clocks separately, we chose to overclock both in sync - raising both by one scroll step each time.

After you have selected the core and shader clock speeds you want for the GPU, click on the Apply button and test the card using a real 3D game. Again, look for visual abnormalities in the game. Sometimes, the game may stall with the monitor blanking out for a moment. This is a sign that the GPU is running too hot and the graphics driver is attempting to recover. Usually, it succeeds and the game resumes. When this happens, clock down the core and shader clocks.

If the game runs well, increase the core and shader clocks by another step. Keep doing this until you discover the highest clock speeds at which the GPU is stable.

Once you are satisfied, you might want to reduce the core and shader clock speeds for the GPU by one step for added stability (in case of temperature or voltage changes).

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