Guidance Regarding Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen K/KF/KS Instability Reports

Intel and its partners continue investigating user reports regarding instability issues on Intel Core 13th and 14th generation (K/KF/KS) desktop processors. We appreciate the Intel community’s patience and will continue to share updates on the investigation as it works toward a conclusion. In the meantime, we’re sharing an update on confirmed factors leading to the reported instability issues and Intel’s current guidance to users regarding Intel Core 13th and 14th Generation (K/KF/KS) desktop processors.

Investigation Background and Intel Default Settings Recommendations

Intel analysis has determined a confirmed contributing factor to the instability reports on Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors is elevated voltage input to the processor due to previous BIOS settings, which allow the processor to operate at turbo frequencies, and voltages even while the processor is at a high temperature.

However, in investigating this instability issue, Intel did discover a bug in the Enhanced Thermal Velocity Boost (eTVB) algorithm, which can impact operating conditions for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors. We have developed a patch for the eTVB bug and are working with our OEM/ODM motherboard partners to roll out the patch as part of BIOS updates before July 19th, 2024. While this eTVB bug is potentially contributing to instability, it is not the root cause of the instability issue.

As Intel and its partners continue working towards a conclusion to the investigation, we want to ensure all users are clear on the recommended Intel Default power delivery profile settings for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors. Intel also recommends users check their motherboard vendor’s website for the latest relevant BIOS updates:

These recommended Intel Default Settings are developed – based on extensive testing and validation – to ensure optimal stability and reliability for Intel Core 13th and 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processors. System performance is dependent on configuration and several other factors.

Users looking to overclock or utilize higher power delivery settings than recommended can still do so at their own risk, as overclocking may void the warranty or affect system health (you can learn more at www.intel.com/overclocking).

Next Steps

As we noted earlier, this investigation is not an easy one to conduct, and we’re grateful for the support of our partners in performing the analysis and the patience of the Intel community.

In the interim, please get in touch with Intel Customer Support if you have questions or concerns regarding your Intel Core 13th or 14th Gen (K/KF/KS) desktop processor.