Undervolting aims to keep the same performance at a lower power draw. But because modern SOCs scale their frequency dynamically based on temperature, a lower voltage means slightly better performance
Yes. Essentially, every chip coming out of the fab will be slightly different, so you need to find a voltage curve that works for all of them. Some will be able to work with - 50mv, some -15, some won’t work at all unless they’re right at that factory defined voltage.
Think of amps and volts like a hose and water. If you put your thumb over the hose the water shoots out faster. Undervolting works in a similar way. So the goal is to lower the volts but maintain or even increase the amps to improve performance.
Am I reading this right? The games performed better with less power? Why?
Undervolting aims to keep the same performance at a lower power draw. But because modern SOCs scale their frequency dynamically based on temperature, a lower voltage means slightly better performance
Oh interesting. Makes sense. Any idea why they don’t tune it like this from the factory? Stability?
Yes. Essentially, every chip coming out of the fab will be slightly different, so you need to find a voltage curve that works for all of them. Some will be able to work with - 50mv, some -15, some won’t work at all unless they’re right at that factory defined voltage.
Undervolting provides the chip with additional power and thermal headroom, and can improved situations where otherwise throttling sets in.
Think of amps and volts like a hose and water. If you put your thumb over the hose the water shoots out faster. Undervolting works in a similar way. So the goal is to lower the volts but maintain or even increase the amps to improve performance.