Why is my ivy bridge i5 running at 1.6 ghz

[jack baldwin]

I checked on cpu-z earlier and got this

it says my cpu is running at 1.6ghz when it should be 3.4

why is this?

 

[larkspur]

Your CPU was idling. Modern CPUs have robust power-saving techniques. While idle, your CPU lowers its multiplier thus lowering its clock speed in order to save power. Try loading the CPU by running Prime95 and in CPU-z you'll see your CPU clocked at its nominal frequency.

 

[J_E_D_70]

Intel speedstep downclocks at idle or light loads to save power. Put a load like prime95 on the cpu to see it kick up.

 

[jack baldwin]

lright ill download it now, thanks guys

 

[dextermat]

Hi,

This is because of intel speedstep technologie.
The computer manage the cpu to your needs. If your on idle or do minimal task it slows the cpu to economize energy and less heat.
Disable it in bios but, unless you overclock, I suggest to keep it on.

 

[J_E_D_70]

I (mildly) overclock and still leave it on to no ill effect