Intel is currently distributing a new microcode (0x129) patch to its OEM/ODM partners for 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core desktop processors that will address incorrect processor voltage requests that cause high operating voltages.
For all users of 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core desktop processors: This patch is being distributed via a BIOS update and will not be available through OS updates. Intel is working with its partners to ensure that the BIOS update is validated and released in a timely manner to currently running systems.
Instability Analysis Update – The Fine-Tuned Code Background and Its Performance Impact
In addition Extended Warranty CoverageIntel has released three mitigation measures to help stabilize customer systems using 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core desktop processors:
1. Intel default settings to avoid high power delivery impact on processor (May 2024)
2. Microcode 0x125 to fix eTVB issue on i9 processors (June 2024)
3. Microcode 0x129 for high voltage handling (August 2024)
Intel’s current analysis found a significant increase in minimum operating voltage (Vmin) across many cores in the affected processors due to the voltage spike. High voltage events can accumulate over time and contribute to an increase in the minimum operating voltage (Vmin) of a processor.
The latest microcode update (0x129) will limit voltage requests above 1.55V as a precaution to mitigate the unstable symptoms for processors that do not suffer from the unstable symptoms. This latest microcode update will primarily improve the operating conditions for K/KF/KS processors. Intel also confirms, based on extensive verification, that all future products will not be affected by this issue.
Intel continues to investigate mitigating scenarios that could lead to Vmin switching on potentially affected devices. 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core Desktop ProcessorsIntel will provide updates by the end of August.
Intel’s internal testing – using Intel’s default settings – indicates that the performance impact is within run-to-run variability (e.g. 3DMark: Timespy, WebXPRT 4, Cinebench R24, Blender 4.2.0) with some subtests showing moderate effects (WebXPRT Online Homework; PugetBench GPU Effects Score). For the gaming workloads tested, performance was also within run-to-run variability (e.g. Cyberpunk 2077, Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Total War: Warhammer III – Mirrors of Madness) with one exception showing a slightly larger impact (Hitman 3: Dartmoor). However, system performance is dependent on configuration and many other factors.
For unlocked 13th and 14th Gen Intel Core desktop processors, this latest microcode update (0x129) will work. no This feature prevents users from overclocking if they choose. Users can disable the eTVB setting in their BIOS if they wish to push the 1.55V limit. As always, Intel recommends that users exercise caution when overclocking their desktop processors, as overclocking may void the warranty and/or impact the health of the system. As a general best practice, Intel recommends that customers with Intel 13th and 14th Gen desktop processors use Intel default settings.
In light of what was recently announced Extended Warranty ProgramIntel is confident in its products and is committed to ensuring that all customers currently experiencing instability symptoms on their 13th and/or 14th Gen desktop processors are supported in the exchange process. Users experiencing persistent instability symptoms should contact their system manufacturer (OEM/System Integrator purchase), Intel Customer Support (boxed processor), or place of purchase (tray processor) for further assistance.
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