Intel claims instability caused by increased voltage, new microcode update coming
Finally, a statement about the ongoing story.
Game developers, system integrators, server providers, tech reviewers and gamers were all waiting for an explanation from Intel regarding the instability issues of the 13th/14th generation Core. This statement was shared today.
In short, Intel has blamed incorrectly set operating voltages for the LGA-1700 issues. Current reports focus on the Raptor Lake family, including the Refresh, which may experience stability issues depending on the software used or whether it’s a high-end part like Core i9 SKUs, which are said to be more commonly affected.
In its first public statement on the issue (in addition to saying that mobile SKUs are not affected), Intel said that the company has internally determined that “elevated operating voltage” is the primary cause of the instability issues. The reason these CPUs were using the higher voltage is said to be due to faulty microcode algorithms, which are being fixed.
Based on extensive analysis of Intel Core 13th/14th generation desktop processors returned to us due to instability issues, we have determined that increased operating voltage causes instability problems in some 13th/14th generation desktop processors. Our analysis of returned processors confirms that the increased operating voltage is a result of a microcode algorithm that results in incorrect voltage requests to the processor.
Intel provides microcode patch that addresses the root cause of exposure to elevated voltages. We continue to validate to ensure that instability scenarios reported to Intel regarding its Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processors are addressed. Intel is currently focused on mid-August for patch release to partners after full validation.
Intel is committed to making this right for our customers. As such, we ask that customers who are currently experiencing instability issues with their Intel Core 13th/14th Gen desktop processors to contact Intel Customer Service for further assistance.
— Intel PR
Intel is now releasing microcode patches to address the root cause of the higher voltages. However, it is not yet clear if this is the definitive cause of the instability issue. Intel will continue to validate and share the patch around mid-August.
The company has not announced any recalls or whether the affected CPUs need to be returned immediately. Instead, Intel recommends that affected users contact customer service.
Source: Intel