I finally found a way to access the BIOS on my computer

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on accessing the BIOS settings of a computer running Windows Vista 64-bit Home Premium with a C2Q Q9400 CPU and a Gateway G33M05G1 motherboard. The user aims to overclock their CPU from 2.66 GHz to 3.00 GHz but is cautioned about the risks of overclocking, especially with a stock cooler. It is noted that many OEM machines, including Gateway, have locked BIOS settings that prevent overclocking, necessitating a motherboard upgrade for those interested in this modification.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of BIOS access methods, specifically for Windows Vista.
  • Knowledge of CPU overclocking principles and risks.
  • Familiarity with computer cooling solutions, including fan configurations.
  • Awareness of motherboard compatibility, particularly LGA 775 socket specifications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research how to access BIOS on various computer brands and models.
  • Learn about CPU overclocking techniques and safety precautions.
  • Investigate aftermarket cooling solutions suitable for overclocking.
  • Explore compatible LGA 775 motherboards that allow for overclocking.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for computer enthusiasts, particularly those interested in overclocking, as well as users of OEM systems looking to upgrade their hardware for better performance.

The_Absolute
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I have finally found a way to access my BIOS settings in my computer! I am running Windows Vista 64 bit Home Premium, a C2Q Q9400 2.66 GHz @ 2.66 GHz. 6GB of DDR2 800 MHz RAM, Radeon HD 4850 512 MB GPU.

I have never done this before, I am aiming at clocking my CPU from 2.66 GHz to 3.00 GHz. Should I be able to do this with my stock cooler? I heard overclocking can be extremely dangerous. Such as causing your system to constantly crash, not to boot, become unstable, cause data corruption, and even damage/break components on your PC. How do I do this properly, without those things happening?
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
Use your computer in fridge
 
The fact that you are just NOW figuring out how to access your BIOS is enough to tell me that you don't know enough knowledge to even do a small OC on your machine. You can't push that proc to far on the stock cooler anyway. What chip set do you have?
 
You will need to add a fan or fans to your case
Google “computer fans” there are many fans out there.
Many things to consider like do you want them high or low on your case, do you want them to blow inside or suck air out, the noise and of course the size.
Usually they plug right into your existing wiring harness.
 
My motherboard is a Gateway G33M05G1.

I believe the overclocking feature in my BIOS is permanently locked by the manufacturer. As with most Gateway computers.

If I wanted to overclock, I would have to buy another motherboard. Could you recommend any LGA 775 motherboards which are an upgrade from mine, overclockable, and will fit a C2Q Q9400 in it?
 
Correct, nearly all (that I know of) OEM machines have locked BIOS to prevent overclocking in any way.

As far as motherboards, Google. There are forums specifically dedicated to overclocking. Be weary though, many computer manufacturers use weird motherboard sizes such that typical off-the-shelf units don't fit.
 
Don't overclock any computer you don't mind frying.
 
Accessing the BIOS is usually a simply key that is displayed on the screen before windows boots... Usually it is the F2 or F10 key.

J
 

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