Precision Boost Overdrive 2, the perfect tool to squeeze the Ryzen 5000

If you have already purchased, or are planning to buy, a Ryzen 5000 series processor, AMD has recently released more information about a tool that will surely come in handy. Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) allowed their Ryzen processors to be overclocked with a single click, but while the technology improved performance in multi-threaded workloads, it failed to deliver benefits in single-threaded workloads. That will change in December when AMD's new Precision Boost Overdrive 2 (PBO2) arrives in BIOS patches. In fact, the new PBO2 will increase single-thread performance while retaining the existing multi-core boost benefits. The new PBO2 will only work with Ryzen 5000 series processors and AMD is also introducing a sophisticated new undervolting technique.

For example, PBO2 gives the Ryzen 7 5800X nearly the same outstanding single-threaded performance as the mighty Ryzen 9 5900X. As with everything related to overclocking and AMD's policy with the first generation PBO, use of the new PBO2 will void the warranty. But given the relatively risk-free performance gains we've seen with PBO and the fact that the automatic nature of the feature avoids using overly dangerous voltages, we think overclocking PBO2 will continue to be the safest way to get the best performance. possible. That said, of course you will have to proceed at your own risk.

Read Also: Two AMD Ryzen 5000

Some motherboards, such as the MSI X570 Godlike and the Gigabyte X570 Aorus Master, already support the functionality in the current BIOS patches, but PBO2 will officially land in the new BIOS revisions with AGESA 1.1.8.0, arriving next month.

The PBO adaptive algorithm will allow you to get the maximum performance from your chip. As with the first generation PBO, the new PBO2 allows the processor to overcome the power limits of the AM4 socket to increase performance based on chip capabilities, power quality and cooling solution.

The new curve optimization function intelligently adjusts voltage according to operating conditions, for example if the processor is idle or under heavy load.

The function now switches from adjusting parameters via fixed voltages to 'application of new settings via “steps”, which are equivalent to about 3-5 mW each. This gives it a dynamic range that allows for greater precision and Ryzen 5000 owners will have 30 steps at their disposal. The adaptive algorithm adjusts these variables once every millisecond based on telemetry data transmitted over the Infinity Fabric from various sensors on the chip. In particular, the steps can be applied for both core and the entire chip.

Precision Boost Overdrive 2 will initially debut as an option only in the BIOS, but AMD plans to introduce it in its Ryzen Master software at the beginning of next year.

Are you looking for a good motherboard to pair with the new Ryzen processors? ASUS ROG Strix X570-F with 14 power phases might be a good choice. You can find it on Amazon at an attractive price.