How-to: Pencil mod your HD 3870!

[Random Murderer]

A little off topic guys, but do you feel it is safe to flash the g-card bios from a virtual floppy? I have no floppy drive, but the mobo has a virtual floppy. Unless I have the bios a vmod is useless.

Just use ATiWinFlash to flash the BIOS from within Windows. That's what I do.:toast:

[jpierce55]

Just use ATiWinFlash to flash the BIOS from within Windows. That's what I do.:toast:

done, but I need a #4 the #2 barely budged my voltage, and I was at the low end 1.33v, now 1.35. Might just be a bad pencil.

[thoughtdisorder]

7,537 views of this thread to date. Hats off to this thread..:toast:

btw-rarely have I noticed the number of members outnumbering the number of guests viewing. Good stuff for TPU.

[tigger]

I just though i'd post this pic,in case some people are having trouble working out how to do the hard mod.

http://img.techpowerup.org/080120/my mod.jpg

The vgpu measure points are marked in black.You do NOT need to pencil anything for a hard mod.

[Cold Storm]

it looks good tigger. thanks for it so more people don't go wtf...

[Reset]

Another question or two tigger. The yellow line is where you suggest soldering one side of the trimmer? Also is this for the HD 3870? Just making sure because I don't remember what card you are modding and I am too lazy to go back throught the messages.

[tigger]

The vmod is the same for the 3850(which is shown above) and the 3870,just the vgpu measure points are differant.

this shows the 3870 vgpu measure points.
http://img.techpowerup.org/080120/hd3870pmodsl4141.jpg

[Source]

Nice work Tig !

[thoughtdisorder]

Nice work Tig !

+1. Very nice work indeed! :toast:

[RyderOCZ]

I have been looking around the net.

I have the Powercolor 3870's and they do not seem to match what I have been looking at. Can anyone help me with the pencil/hard mod?

Here is a high res pic of what I think you need based on this thread and others. If you need something else, let me know.

Thanks

http://www.ryderocz.info/misc/3870.jpg

[Cold Storm]

well I thought it did, but after researching it, i don't see it at all.... sorry man...

[RyderOCZ]

Just because there is no R1222 does not mean it can't be done...I just have to find the right resistor on this board that controls the Vcore.

Anyone have any input as to which ones to start probing?

[Random Murderer]

Just because there is no R1222 does not mean it can't be done...I just have to find the right resistor on this board that controls the Vcore.

Anyone have any input as to which ones to start probing?

Probing doesn't modify the card, so just have at it.:toast:

[tigger]

RyderOCZ,Look through here,i think you may find what your looking for.-http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?p=2699229&posted=1#post2699229

[BPBastos]

Hi to all, I am new in forum and already I have a problem! I tried to make pencil-mod in mine 3870 and think that I broke the resistor. Exists some way to weld a new resitor in the place of the broken one?

Sorry for my english.

[Random Murderer]

Hi to all, I am new in forum and already I have a problem! I tried to make pencil-mod in mine 3870 and think that I broke the resistor. Exists some way to weld a new resitor in the place of the broken one?

Sorry for my english.

Hello, and welcome to TechPowerUp!
Would you mind taking a picture of the PCB and show the resistor in question?
If I know what resistor it is, I can measure it on my card and tell you the resistance. If the resistance is low enough, you can just bridge the two connections with solder.

HOWEVER: if the card is still under warranty(sans the pencil mod and broken resistor) I would recommend you RMA it.

[BPBastos]

Hello, and welcome to TechPowerUp!
Would you mind taking a picture of the PCB and show the resistor in question?
If I know what resistor it is, I can measure it on my card and tell you the resistance. If the resistance is low enough, you can just bridge the two connections with solder.

HOWEVER: if the card is still under warranty(sans the pencil mod and broken resistor) I would recommend you RMA it.

I'm without camera at the time, sorry.
But the resistor is the same of your how-to, default resistence was 1.62.
The card is under warranty, I will follow your advice and send to RMA.
Thx RM.

[Random Murderer]

I'm without camera at the time, sorry.
But the resistor is the same of your how-to, default resistence was 1.62.
The card is under warranty, I will follow your advice and send to RMA.
Thx RM.

No problem.;)
I'd hate to see someone not have the card they paid so much for, especially one that kicks this much ass.

[RyderOCZ]

RyderOCZ,Look through here,i think you may find what your looking for.-http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?p=2699229&posted=1#post2699229Yep...been through that thread...they all seem to have the "reference" PCB...my card looks different. Resistors are in different places, etc. The layout looks similar so the hard mod might be the same...but really would like to find the proper resistor to try pencil mod first.

Not new to hard mods...both my 8800's are hardmodded, but I would rather do the pencil mod first to see if the card scales.

I can run 877 right out of the box...makes me think its already at 1.40ish volts.

[jpierce55]

I found an old 6hb pencil and rubbed it on. I have 1.47volts running artifact scan. Idle temp is 51c with the room temp at 74f. No artifacts until 908, I turned it down to 893mhz, but may need more when I play games. I ran 3dmark06, LM3, AM, and Fur with no problems and top temp hit 60c.

Seems like this should be a fairly safe temp? Thanks for the thread.

[Random Murderer]

I found an old 6hb pencil and rubbed it on. I have 1.47volts running artifact scan. Idle temp is 51c with the room temp at 74f. No artifacts until 908, I turned it down to 893mhz, but may need more when I play games. I ran 3dmark06, LM3, AM, and Fur with no problems and top temp hit 60c.

Seems like this should be a fairly safe temp? Thanks for the thread.

60°C is safe for this card. ATi has the stock cooler set to not even run until the core hit 95...

[Necrofire]

Has anyone here ever thought of just taking the stock fan off and putting a larger fan on? A regular 80mm or 92mm fan running full speed would work, since quiet ones are easy to come by.

That's waht I did with my 8600GTS anyway, since I don't have any pci cards/SLI setup.


Also, 3870 kicks ass, wish I had waited and got that instead of 8600GTS.

[Random Murderer]

Has anyone here ever thought of just taking the stock fan off and putting a larger fan on? A regular 80mm or 92mm fan running full speed would work, since quiet ones are easy to come by.

That's waht I did with my 8600GTS anyway, since I don't have any pci cards/SLI setup.


Also, 3870 kicks ass, wish I had waited and got that instead of 8600GTS.

I had thought about modding the stock intel fan to go on it...

[Necrofire]

I had thought about modding the stock intel fan to go on it...

I like the sound of that.

http://img.techpowerup.org/080124/8600gts.jpg

Yes, it's held on with rubber bands, and yes, that's a Biostar northbridge fan on my ASRock northbridge.

It was originally held on with twisted pair from an ethernet cord, but it rattled.

[Random Murderer]

yea, it clips onto the stock shroud fairly easily.

[asb2106]

SAD!

I did the pencil mod today, and all was going well, I had the voltage up to 1.43, and after measuring my hand slid and dragged just so lightely across the card, causing the screen to black out, after many attempts to get it back up I decided to swap the video card, and yep my 3870 no longer works, I have looked over the board 100 times to see any problems with the card(broken solder, anything!@) and the card is in perfect shape, so I wonder if I acidentally shorted the card.

And the main reason I posted this was just to let everyone to be careful when measuring the voltage. I am not scared to do this, infact as soon as I get my new one Im gonna do it again, but its important to be careful because things can happen very very easily!

[Dr. Spankenstein]

I weep for your loss....

I had a scare similar to this with my mobo. Checking a voltage though a 1/2" gap and *fzzzt*, SHUTDOWN! I was lucky.

Like asb2106 said: Be very careful when measuring equipment that is powered up!

[Random Murderer]

Yep. I had an experience like this once. Measured the voltage on my x800xt and slipped and the computer shutdown. Thank goodness for GFCI.

[asb2106]

yah i sold my 1950 so I had to put a 1650pro in my computer and its just horrible, I feel so sad.... :(

EDIT and thanks for not critizing me right now, I kinda had a feeling I was gonna get shit for this but I really appreciate it. Im in a time of loss right now

[tigger]

Thats why i put the vgpu measure points on the external part of the volt mod.

Bad luck guy.

I should have my lian li v1000/1200 this week coming. :D

[trog100]

SAD!

I did the pencil mod today, and all was going well, I had the voltage up to 1.43, and after measuring my hand slid and dragged just so lightely across the card, causing the screen to black out, after many attempts to get it back up I decided to swap the video card, and yep my 3870 no longer works, I have looked over the board 100 times to see any problems with the card(broken solder, anything!@) and the card is in perfect shape, so I wonder if I acidentally shorted the card.

And the main reason I posted this was just to let everyone to be careful when measuring the voltage. I am not scared to do this, infact as soon as I get my new one Im gonna do it again, but its important to be careful because things can happen very very easily!

i touch the back of my cards on a regular basis to check temps.. its never ever done them any harm..

give the back of the card a very good clean.. while doing the pecil mod i had mine several times so as it wouldnt boot.. too much lead and too many volts..

a good brushing to remove the lead and a more gentle application had it going every time.

give it a very good stiff brushing.. simply touching it shouldnt have killed it..

trog

[Dr. Spankenstein]

He meant he touched it with the DMM lead.

[asb2106]

He meant he touched it with the DMM lead.
yep, I have tried it again just now and I tried about everything I could think of, and theres nothing. So I know its done and Im just gonna get it replaced. I rubbed off the bit of lead and Ill be going from here, thanks all for your concern :)

[ghost101]

Happened to me a couple of times. I found that using the DMM lead to touch some of the points around the vmem measure point caused the card to lock up. It didnt cause any damage. these points if measured were 12v so in theory no damage can be caused since the card doesnt get supplied with voltages above 12v. All that happened was probably that by shorting the circuit, some parts of the card lost power and hence the card locked up. To actually cause damage youd have to have both leads of the DMM on the card, which you should never do when powered up anyway.

Anyway, my pencil mod results with 1.33v were

816.25 atitool stable
830.25 crysis stable
843.75 3dmark06 stable

Now i just need a half decent overclocking tool which can set both 2d and 3d clocks. Rivatuner is simply a PITA to use. CCC obviously has the clock limit and atitool just locks up.

edit: each time i got those lock ups, i had to turn the PSU on and off to get it working again.

[asb2106]

Happened to me a couple of times. I found that using the DMM lead to touch some of the points around the vmem measure point caused the card to lock up. It didnt cause any damage. these points if measured were 12v so in theory no damage can be caused since the card doesnt get supplied with voltages above 12v. All that happened was probably that by shorting the circuit, some parts of the card lost power and hence the card locked up. To actually cause damage youd have to have both leads of the DMM on the card, which you should never do when powered up anyway.
Rivatuner is simply a PITA to use.

edit: each time i got those lock ups, i had to turn the PSU on and off to get it working again.

I have not only unplugged the PS but Ive removed all the power to the board and card, I have pulled the CPU, the ram, the drives, and put in back together in any config I could to atleast see a post. Whatever I touched with the DMM lead was something bad, the card no longer works.

EDIT: and RivaTuner is the easiest and nicest tool for overclocking, you sure your using it right? its nowhere near a pain

[asb2106]

Anyway, my pencil mod results with 1.33v were

816.25 atitool stable
830.25 crysis stable
843.75 3dmark06 stable



and I was getting 903(stable on all 3) with my 3870 before attempting the mod, and isnt the stock voltage 1.33?

[ghost101]

and I was getting 903(stable on all 3) with my 3870 before attempting the mod, and isnt the stock voltage 1.33?

1.21v on the 3850. I just need a better cooler. I havent fitted an aftermarket cooler yet. After that, the 3 max clocks should converge. I could use 60%+ fan speed, but i dont like listening to jet engines.

[asb2106]

1.21v on the 3850. I just need a better cooler. I havent fitted an aftermarket cooler yet. After that, the 3 max clocks should converge. I could use 60%+ fan speed, but i dont like listening to jet engines.
ahh 3850, i c

very good!

[trog100]

anyways.. twice my card was as dead as as a dodo.. until i carefully remove all traces of pencil lead.. i thought i had killed it twice.. a good clean brought it back to life both times..

trog

[asb2106]

anyways.. twice my card was as dead as as a dodo.. until i carefully remove all traces of pencil lead.. i thought i had killed it twice.. a good clean brought it back to life both times..

trog

Im sure Ill be doing it many times over and over, but for right now I need a break, Im about to go crazy, and heres why, please chime in and help, all, please!!

http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=50924

[Random Murderer]

anyways.. twice my card was as dead as as a dodo.. until i carefully remove all traces of pencil lead.. i thought i had killed it twice.. a good clean brought it back to life both times..

trog

I even broke a resistor off of my buddy's 3870 and all I did was bridge the points and now it works again.

[DaMulta]

Have u washed off what u did and tried it again?

Sucks when u kill hardware.

[asb2106]

Have u washed off what u did and tried it again?

Sucks when u kill hardware.

cleaned it 2 seperate times now
tried evrything to get it back CMOS battery ect

[Viilutaja]

Hey, i got Gigabytes HD3850 512mb Ultra durable 2. I can do 780/870 Mark06 bench. But i want more out of my card. So most of the extra juice comes from higher core. So right now i am aiming for pencil mod. I read the tutorial, but i still need little help. I measured the resistor R1222, and i got a reading 10.50? Am i doing something wrong or is that number right? I will post a picture of the place i check and my DMM setup wich i used.

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/5401/copyofheaha9.th.jpg (http://img246.imageshack.us/my.php?image=copyofheaha9.jpg)
For ground i used those 6 pci-e power pins in the left down corner. Is it ok? Or can i use the chassis itself?
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/4900/dmmsp9.th.jpg (http://img205.imageshack.us/my.php?image=dmmsp9.jpg)
Did i use the right setup for measuring resistance?

And can anyone point out the place for measuring vcore as well?
Many thanks!

[Random Murderer]

That's not a reference PCB, and I don't have that card sitting in front of me, so I can't really help you out here.
For measuring the resistance, you put one lead on each end of the resistor and wait for the value on the DMM to stabilize.
For a ground point, use the chassis.
As far as VCore points go, I would wager that these (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v630/Bobdole666/copyofheaha9.jpg) would work, but don't take my word on that.

[Viilutaja]

Ok, thank you. I'll try those points. Should i test those points, when the PC is running in windows, or does it give accurate readings when the card is in pc but not running, power is on tough.

[trog100]

the volts are at 3d power when the machine is booting.. when it gets to windows the cat drivers take over and drop it to 2 d power.. u then have to run a 3d app to get it back into 3d mode..

the safest way to do it is have someone else push the start up button while u measure the voltage.. if its way out hit the off switch..

trog

[tigger]

You can add this to the front page if you want.It is only for the referance 3850.



Fitting a voltmod to a referance HD3850 256/512mb video card.

http://img.techpowerup.org/080129/my mod.jpg

First of all,you need the following components to begin with.

100kohm cermet trimmer.
Thin wire
digital volt meter.

1.To begin with,take your trimmer and adjust it so the resitance on it is the full 100kohms.

2.Next you need to fit some lengths of thin wire(i used wire from an ide cable) to it.Hold the trimmer in the position your going to fit it on your card,and cut the wires on the trimmer to lengths that will reach to were they are going to be soldered to the card.

3.When you have done this,fit the trimmer to the card,by whatever method you are going to use,glue/sticky pads etc.

4.Now solder the wire to the correct positions on the card,Check them twice and solder them once to make sure they are in the correct positions.

5.Check to make sure all the connections are in the correct positions and secure.

6.Make sure the trimmer is on FULL resistance,100kohms Before you go onto the next step.

7.Now you can fit the card back into the machine.

8.Now you may find it useful to have someone to help you,as you boot up the machine,check the vgpu voltage using the measuring points as in the picture.


The method i use to adjust the vgpu,is to run 3dmark 06 and place my dmm probes onto the card,and adjust the vgpu as it is running 3dmark.It is possible to see the vgpu go up as you turn the trimmer.

Here is a pic of my mod in action,with the vgpu adjusted from 1.24v to 1.34v

http://img.techpowerup.org/080129/IMG_3179.jpg

[jpierce55]

My card has come out to be stable at 896mhz on everything I have tried. It tops out at 918 and just does not go any higher, artifacts start at 908.

I hate to hear your card died. I broke a cap off of mine installing my cooler, fortunately I managed to use a small amount of adhesive to glue it in place and liquid silver pin on the contacts... and it worked.

[asb2106]

just submitted my RMA, I have to send it to Taiwan!

[ghost101]

just submitted my RMA, I have to send it to Taiwan!

Cant you file an RMA with the retailer?

[asb2106]

Cant you file an RMA with the retailer?

Newegg discontinued the product for whatever reason. It was 32 days old and they only would take it back within 30

[DanishDevil]

Lame! I would hope Newegg wouldn't cry over two days. How much you paying to ship it?

[trog100]

i did read the new 3870 x 2 card comes on a ten layer pcb.. they say this is why the card can come clocked higher than the single card.. its worth a thought and might explain why the card has such a wide "not quite stable" gaming range.. we are running very high frequencies..

there might be more to it than simply how fast the chip will go..

trog

[DanishDevil]

Interesting. How many layers in the HD 3870 pcb? 6 or 7 right?

[trog100]

Interesting. How many layers in the HD 3870 pcb? 6 or 7 right?

8 if i remember correctly for the 3870.. they increased it to 10 for the x 2..

trog

[asb2106]

Lame! I would hope Newegg wouldn't cry over two days. How much you paying to ship it?

dont know yet, Im taking it to the post office tommorow, ill be sure to let everyone know, Yah and newegg said there was nothing they could do

[asb2106]

i did read the new 3870 x 2 card comes on a ten layer pcb.. they say this is why the card can come clocked higher than the single card.. its worth a thought and might explain why the card has such a wide "not quite stable" gaming range.. we are running very high frequencies..

there might be more to it than simply how fast the chip will go..

trog

never even thought of that before, quite interesting

[Poulpy]

Hello
Well i am gone mod both my 3870 this week-end.
I can see that neither the vmod for the gpu or the mem are hard to do with good soldering skillls (which is my case). As a side note and after reading some comments, i will go with signle core wire from phone cable or with IDE cable wire, havent decided yet.

On the other hand after reading all the posts in this thread i didnt find any pics showing the measuring points for the vmem. Only saw the one showing where to solder to mod the vmem but not where to check the voltage.

So can anyone post a pic showing the measuring points for the mem voltage ?

Thx a lot guys, cant wait get this hard mod done.
My system is full watercooled (the two 3870 included) so i really cant wait to see what those puppies can do with some vmod :).

[Random Murderer]

Hello
Well i am gone mod both my 3870 this week-end.
I can see that neither the vmod for the gpu or the mem are hard to do with good soldering skillls (which is my case). As a side note and after reading some comments, i will go with signle core wire from phone cable or with IDE cable wire, havent decided yet.

On the other hand after reading all the posts in this thread i didnt find any pics showing the measuring points for the vmem. Only saw the one showing where to solder to mod the vmem but not where to check the voltage.

So can anyone post a pic showing the measuring points for the mem voltage ?

Thx a lot guys, cant wait get this hard mod done.
My system is full watercooled (the two 3870 included) so i really cant wait to see what those puppies can do with some vmod :).
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v630/Bobdole666/vmemmeasure.jpg

[Wile E]

Hello
Well i am gone mod both my 3870 this week-end.
I can see that neither the vmod for the gpu or the mem are hard to do with good soldering skillls (which is my case). As a side note and after reading some comments, i will go with signle core wire from phone cable or with IDE cable wire, havent decided yet.

On the other hand after reading all the posts in this thread i didnt find any pics showing the measuring points for the vmem. Only saw the one showing where to solder to mod the vmem but not where to check the voltage.

So can anyone post a pic showing the measuring points for the mem voltage ?

Thx a lot guys, cant wait get this hard mod done.
My system is full watercooled (the two 3870 included) so i really cant wait to see what those puppies can do with some vmod :).I suggest phone cable. The IDE strands work fairly well, but they actually add a bit of resistance due to their gauge.

[Poulpy]

Thx a lot for the answers.

I was gone go for the phone wire anyway i think. I prefer it for its single core.

I also found some 30 gauge wire here at work. Its reeeeally small and would defenitly make it even easier to solder, especially for the vmem on the IC chip. You guys think its too small ?

If it hasnt been done yet, i will take pics of the process and open a thread just for the hard mod when i am done.

[Poulpy]

Oh by the way Random,

I saw that you soldered the ground for the vmem trimmer on the IC chip. Is that required or can i just soldered it on the power connector ground ?
I am asking because it seems like its what that guy from xs did (the one with the black wires nicely shaped and the trimmers clipped) and i want to do something similar.

Thx

[tigger]

It easier to solder multi strand wire tho'.especially when the connections are as small as these.Its hard to tin the solid wire,coz i tried.

[trog100]

i would use bell or transformer wire.. clean and tin the ends very carefully.. fix the wire perfectly in place somehow.. bent and shaped exactly where u want it.. then a very quick touch with a hot fine tipped iron should do the job just like that..

if u are lucky.. he he he

trog

[asb2106]

BE CAREFUL when measuring your voltages, I recommend doing what tigger did. I lost my card because of it.

[Random Murderer]

Oh by the way Random,

I saw that you soldered the ground for the vmem trimmer on the IC chip. Is that required or can i just soldered it on the power connector ground ?
I am asking because it seems like its what that guy from xs did (the one with the black wires nicely shaped and the trimmers clipped) and i want to do something similar.

Thx

I just soldered it to the ground pin on the IC. You can solder it to any ground on the card.

[Poulpy]

It easier to solder multi strand wire tho'.especially when the connections are as small as these.Its hard to tin the solid wire,coz i tried.

Personnaly i have had better results soldering solid core wires on IC of small size, using a tiny bit of flux on the wire. I like multi strand if i solder on another multistrand but on a chip or resistor or anything with a solid core i prefer solid core wire. Solid core wire is easy to tin if you put some flux on it before.

I guess its just a matter of taste :)

As far as holding the wire, i like to use a special double sided tape in small pieces to hold the wire against the card.

I will post pics when i start, pics are worth a hundred lines of explanation :rolleyes:

[Poulpy]

BE CAREFUL when measuring your voltages, I recommend doing what tigger did. I lost my card because of it.

I have a nice multimeter with pointy ends i dont need to force to measure the voltage and i can see very clearly where i put the tips.

I already checked the vgpu yesterday (1.34v 3D) and had no problem. Just have to go really slowly and patiently and everything is ok....should be ok :respect:

[asb2106]

I have a nice multimeter with pointy ends i dont need to force to measure the voltage and i can see very clearly where i put the tips.

I already checked the vgpu yesterday (1.34v 3D) and had no problem. Just have to go really slowly and patiently and everything is ok....should be ok :respect:

key word, slowly and carefully, one thing I took for granted after doing a few measurements. Nothing but me being stubborn, so hopefully if I preach enough I can save someelse from my misery!

[Poulpy]

key word, slowly and carefully, one thing I took for granted after doing a few measurements. Nothing but me being stubborn, so hopefully if I preach enough I can save someelse from my misery!

I have been through that a long time ago when i vmoded a ASUS KT133 mobo. Wanted to go too fast and ended up desoldering an IC impossible to put back :banghead:. I did go to Fry's to exchange it so i guess my lesson wasnt too expensive but i did learn my lesson, never messed up a hard mod after that.:respect:

[trog100]

I have been through that a long time ago when i vmoded a ASUS KT133 mobo. Wanted to go too fast and ended up desoldering an IC impossible to put back :banghead:. I did go to Fry's to exchange it so i guess my lesson wasnt too expensive but i did learn my lesson, never messed up a hard mod after that.:respect:

u sound like u know exactly what u are doing dude..

some "how to solder" " pics showing others would be very useful.. :)

trog

[Poulpy]

u sound like u know exactly what u are doing dude..

some "how to solder" " pics showing others would be very useful.. :)

trog


Will do. I have extensive personal experience but i am not a professional. As far as electronics is concerned i learned by myself so there are probably things that i still need to learn :shadedshu .

But yeah like i said i will put together a new thread based only on hardmodding the 3870 when i start the mod tommorow.

But for soldering the best basic advices i can give to anyone reading thsi thread:
-keep your tip clean (wet sponge and/or ammoniacal stone)
-use flux on the wires (be careful with that on the PCB as its acid), that helps a lot for precision soldering to solder fast without overheating. Basically it roughen the metal and makes the solder stick fast and good.
-Take the right iron = dont use your 100w instant iron to work on a VC, instead use at most a 30w or best a dual heat 15w/30w iron (goes to 30w with the push of a button)
-Use a magnifying glass on a stand to keep your hands to yourself, this will greatly increase your efficiency
-Please......use heat shrink tubing and not tape

-And last but not least....... TAKE YOUR TIME!:pimp:

Of course that quick list if far from complete but just a quick reminder.


I picked up my trimmers today so i definetly will start the mod tommorow. Tonight i flush the system and take out my VCs.


PS: If my englsih isnt perfect, sorry about it but i am not native english speaker.

[asb2106]

PS: If my englsih isnt perfect, sorry about it but i am not native english speaker.

did pretty damn good for not being native

EDIT * I only speak English and my posts dont normally sound that good,

this one for example!:laugh:

[Poulpy]

did pretty damn good for not being native

EDIT * I only speak English and my posts dont normally sound that good,

this one for example!:laugh:


Well i did forgot to mention that i spent 6 years in the US before coming back to europe:D

Ok so thats it for tonight, the two 3870 are flushed and out of the system.
Tomorrow i go pick up some small heat shrink, and on with the mods.
Just need to get a jumper from an old device so i can do the mod deactivation part.

[asb2106]

Well i did forgot to mention that i spent 6 years in the US before coming back to europe:D

Ok so thats it for tonight, the two 3870 are flushed and out of the system.
Tomorrow i go pick up some small heat shrink, and on with the mods.
Just need to get a jumper from an old device so i can do the mod deactivation part.

looking forward to seeing you thread!

[ace80]

Finally i'm back online.
Got my new card a few days ago but had to wait to get mobo back from rma.
His 3870 xt turbo @ stock 850/1190(2380)

http://img.techpowerup.org/080201/sm054.jpg

Here's the bios for all you who wanna look

[Poulpy]

[QUOTE=Random Murderer;635357[/QUOTE]

Anyone knows other points to measure the vmem ?
I dont have the two left points on my boards:
http://img.techpowerup.org/080201/vmemmeasure.jpg

[Random Murderer]

Anyone knows other points to measure the vmem ?
I dont have the two left points on my boards:
http://img.techpowerup.org/080201/vmemmeasure.jpg

no, there's no capacitor there on my board, just open points.
seems your manufacturer removed those points because they weren't doing anything.

[Poulpy]

Arg.

Maybe i am lucky.......is the one on the right the + or the ground ?

If its the - , i am screwd as i dont know enought about vc design to find the the + for the vmem

[Random Murderer]

Arg.

Maybe i am lucky.......is the one on the right the + or the ground ?

If its the - , i am screwd as i dont know enought about vc design to find the the + for the vmem

The measure points are always +, you take the black lead of your DMM and ground it to your computer's chassis.

[thoughtdisorder]

The measure points are always +, you take the black lead of your DMM and ground it to your computer's chassis.

I'm just curious....Why are the measure points always + ? Also, how did you figure that out?

[Random Murderer]

I'm just curious....Why are the measure points always + ? Also, how did you figure that out?

The points are always + because you're measuring the amount of voltage being supplied to a specific component, not the return voltage.
And I just kind of knew it already, simple electronics to those of us in-the-know. ;)

[Poulpy]

I'm just curious....Why are the measure points always + ? Also, how did you figure that out?

Think of it like electricity and electronics in a car:
Your whole chassis is the - and a + is pulled from the ignition or the battery to the components, wich is why when you look for a + in a car, you attach the - tip of your DMM to a bolt for example and you use your + DMM tip to test cables until you find that gives the voltage you want.

Same goes for the VCs apparently (i learned it today:p). Every set of components are fed on a common end with a - and then each gets the appropriate + voltage (1.3, 5.12, etc....).
So to make it short, its your + that determines your voltage bot the -.

Does it make sense or did i make it even more confusing ? I am asking because sometimes i understand perfectly things but cant explain them at all.:slap:

********************

Mods follow up.
Ok one 3870 moded and tested eventhough i scared myself by taking of a connection that i thought had been made by me with extra solder but no it wasnt:mad:. So i ended up spending 1hour to fix that by using a tiny strand of wire, pfff got real scared on this one.
But the VC is working fine, i am at 1.46 on the gpu and 2.02 of the memory.
Tomorrow i mod the second card and i will take pics along the process to make the thread i promessed.
Btw here is a tip for those about to start too:

When you want to check voltages, just hook the black (-) of your DMM to your case like this you can focus on manipulating the red tip of your dmm to quickly check vmem and vmgpu. Helped me to check voltages carefully and still be able to react fast if an emergency shutdwon was needed.(one hand on the psu switch and the other one with the red dmm tip to check voltages.


More tommrow, i need to get some sleep, its 3:30am here :twitch:

[thoughtdisorder]

Thanks RM & Poulpy! Makes sense.......:toast:

[ace80]

I just tried to overclock my 3870 but it hard locked at 860 from stock of 850, measured the voltage and its 1.33v at load. So do i need the bios fix or is it down to voltage?
Also is the fixed bios provided by Random stock clocks of 775 or could i modify my own bios to get rid of the lock and keep 850?

[Random Murderer]

I just tried to overclock my 3870 but it hard locked at 860 from stock of 850, measured the voltage and its 1.33v at load. So do i need the bios fix or is it down to voltage?
Also is the fixed bios provided by Random stock clocks of 775 or could i modify my own bios to get rid of the lock and keep 850?
Sounds like the PLL lock to me.
There's a BIOS in the file I provided with the stock clocks of 860/1250. This may be your best bet.

[ghost101]

Very easy to create your own BIOSes now

http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?t=175531

Ive changed my 3dclocks to 810/999 with that and it works perfectly. You can also use it to change the voltage by software. Unfortunately theres a 1.327v limit.

[Random Murderer]

Very easy to create your own BIOSes now

http://www.xtremesystems.org/forums/showthread.php?t=175531

Ive changed my 3dclocks to 810/999 with that and it works perfectly. You can also use it to change the voltage by software. Unfortunately theres a 1.327v limit.

Ok, I included that program in the first post. Thanks for the heads-up.

[ace80]

Random, the two bios files that are included in the zip file have .sb extensions.
I take it i just rename them?
Also is it safe to flash in windows with winflash, i've always been told not to.
Lastly are flashrom or atiflash compatible with these cards?

[trog100]

i looked at your bios ace.. its version 075 but its only 61 k in size.. the ones without the 860 problem are all 64 k in size.. it seems u have the early one even thow the version is higher..

i use winflash.. many times over.. but i recon u might get the sub system mismatch message.. error..

your bio has many differences compared to the other ones.. similar to the gecube bios..

odd they havnt gone for the bigger 64 k bios with such a late release card..

the problem u have is the different none stock cooler requires different fan speeds setting and such..

trog

[tigger]

I already posted the bios editor.

[Random Murderer]

Random, the two bios files that are included in the zip file have .sb extensions.
I take it i just rename them?
Also is it safe to flash in windows with winflash, i've always been told not to.
Lastly are flashrom or atiflash compatible with these cards?

NO, do not rename them. .SB is a valid BIOS extension.
I use the program included in the folder in my post. It is a Windows-based flashing program, and I have used it many times over on different systems without problems.:toast:

[trog100]

the editor is also useful just for looking at a bios.. it reads the various voltages and speeds nicely.. for example aces ice turbo 3870 reads only 1.3 volts which does kinda surprize me.. they must be good chips..

trog

[Dr. Spankenstein]

Just finished volt mod on one card this morn. Didn't have much time to dink with it. Set resistor to around 86k ohms and got 1.48v. Kicked in fan (Riva) to 80% temps were around 60C.

Get ready for some shenanigans....

[asb2106]

Just finished volt mod on one card this morn. Didn't have much time to dink with it. Set resistor to around 86k ohms and got 1.48v. Kicked in fan (Riva) to 80% temps were around 60C.

Get ready for some shenanigans....

at that voltage you should hit some great core speeds! excited to see your results

[Dr. Spankenstein]

I'm excited too. Why does work ALWAYS get in the way of having fun? :(

Gonna push this one HARD!

[Poulpy]

Hey everyone

Just letting you guys know that i havent forgotten about the thread i am supposed to make. Just havent had the time yet.
Everything went cool, both GPUs are al the way to 1Ghz. On the other hand i find the mod for the memory to be useless as apparently those memory (on my cards at least) really dont like overclocking and evenless an increased voltage. Not a big deal if you ask me as VC mem overclock doesnt bring that much extra performance compared to a GPU overclock.
So right now, stock speed on the memories but 1Ghz on the GPUs and 19000+ in 3DMark2006. Will post pics soon once i finish my last project which is a change in case to that one:
http://www.materiel.net/album/14504.jpg
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16811133052
This case is a giant, plenty of room for my watercooling and for that too:
http://www.materiel.net/live/17698.jpg !!!!!!!

More tomorrow when i get those 40Kg worth of packages :twitch:

[ace80]

Been having problems with my mobo not posting like some guys in other threads:mad:
Anyway i've flashed the bios which has hopefully got rid of the 860mhz lock, my question to all before i begin oc'ing is whats the highest core clock you've achieved before pencil or hard modding?

[Dr. Spankenstein]

Been having problems with my mobo not posting like some guys in other threads:mad:

What's going on here!?! You folks are making me fear logging-in for catching this motherboard-killing disease! :eek:

Anyway i've flashed the bios which has hopefully got rid of the 860mhz lock, my question to all before i begin oc'ing is whats the highest core clock you've achieved before pencil or hard modding?

My attempts at pencil-mod got me 1.4V max which got me 879HMz top gaming stable speed and that was with stock cooler @ 100% fan speed. "The Haunted" got some wicked (do the kids still use that word?) voltage with this pencil-mod.

It depends on the type/softness of the pencil lead, your technique and your PATIENCE!

[ace80]

What's going on here!?! You folks are making me fear logging-in for catching this motherboard-killing disease! :eek:



My attempts at pencil-mod got me 1.4V max which got me 879HMz top gaming stable speed and that was with stock cooler @ 100% fan speed. "The Haunted" got some wicked (do the kids still use that word?) voltage with this pencil-mod.

It depends on the type/softness of the pencil lead, your technique and your PATIENCE!

Been having the problem for a couple of months now, its been posted in the asus forums quite a bit regarding this mobo, i've rma'd it twice but it works when they get it!

I'll try the pencil mod when i get back from work tommorrow, as i can find no damn pencils just biro's coming out of my ears.
A quick oc sesson just now netted me 877mhz stable through 3d06 90% fan speed never broke more than 50°c:)

[barr3l rid3r]

i looked at your bios ace.. its version 075 but its only 61 k in size.. the ones without the 860 problem are all 64 k in size.. it seems u have the early one even thow the version is higher..

i use winflash.. many times over.. but i recon u might get the sub system mismatch message.. error..

your bio has many differences compared to the other ones.. similar to the gecube bios..

odd they havnt gone for the bigger 64 k bios with such a late release card..

the problem u have is the different none stock cooler requires different fan speeds setting and such..

trog


I've got a Gigabyte 3870 w/ DDR3 and it comes w/ ver 70 64k bios and it's locked I've changed for Sapphire 3850 ver 71 61k bios and now it's unlocked (895Mhz)


So u are wrong...

[sneekypeet]

I've got a Gigabyte 3870 w/ DDR3 and it comes w/ ver 70 64k bios and it's locked I've changed for Sapphire 3850 ver 71 61k bios and now it's unlocked (895Mhz)


So u are wrong...

So you took a HD3850 bios and put it on a HD3870 GDDR3???????

I dont think its trog that is wrong here...also he is describing issues with the HD3870 GDDR4:D

[trog100]

I've got a Gigabyte 3870 w/ DDR3 and it comes w/ ver 70 64k bios and it's locked I've changed for Sapphire 3850 ver 71 61k bios and now it's unlocked (895Mhz)


So u are wrong...

i occasionally am.. :)

trog

[sneekypeet]

i occasionally am.. :)

trog

Wasnt your comment directed to a guy (ACE) with a HD3870 GDDR4 version?....also why is this kid saying you are wrong when he is on a different type of card ,trog?

[trog100]

Wasnt your comment directed to a guy (ACE) with a HD3870 GDDR4 version?....also why is this kid saying you are wrong when he is on a different type of card ,trog?

its in his nature probably.. he he

but most of my observations (3870) were arrived at some time ago.. back then there were only the two bios.. the 67 (61k) which was locked and the 71 (64k) which wasnt..

several weeks have past and things are different.. he seems to be saying he has flashed a 3870 ddr3 card with 3850 bios.. interesting if he has.. ??

trog

[barr3l rid3r]

its in his nature probably.. he he

but most of my observations (3870) were arrived at some time ago.. back then there were only the two bios.. the 67 (61k) which was locked and the 71 (64k) which wasnt..

several weeks have past and things are different.. he seems to be saying he has flashed a 3870 ddr3 card with 3850 bios.. interesting if he has.. ??

trog


Actually I was just posting an observation cause the size wasn't related w/ the fact of unlocked or not bios.

I just use 3850 bios in a 3870 DDR3 cause I couldn't find any other 3870 w/ Qimonda DDR3 and it worked... @ 900/2100Mhz now...

I'm not a kid, I'm 26 Yo and has been the first in orb w/ 9500Pro for a quite long time, since that I've been overclocking Radeons using Air cooled bizarre solutions.


http://i27.tinypic.com/219vx53.jpg
http://i28.tinypic.com/2qbi35g.jpg
http://i29.tinypic.com/30tt2xg.jpg
http://i25.tinypic.com/35kpt6x.jpg
http://i26.tinypic.com/15eze41.jpg

[trog100]

yes it seems all sorts of variations on a theme are appearing.. i never knew there was such a thing as a dd3 3870 card.. lets say my observations used to be true when the cards first came out.. now six weeks down the line with many more cards out there things have changed.. i have lost touch with current changes and available cards..

trog

[ace80]

I'm back, damn this pc.
My pc not posting issues seem to have gone and were replaced by some other niggling probs.
And hows this for a close shave, reflashed vid card bios other night, restarted got to windows POWER CUT!!

Anyway with my down time i've performed the pencil mod and hooked up my tumble dryer hoses for cooling, so far i'm at 1.41v (will oc in a bit)
I'm using the 830/1200 bios fan @ 95% idle temps 26°c, loaded through atitool after 5 mins jumps between 36-41°c.
http://img.techpowerup.org/080218/sm056.jpg

[Lillebror]

Anyone know whats the best air cooler for the 3870 is? cause ive ben looking around, and i can't find any information :(

[barr3l rid3r]

@925/2150Mhz No vgpu yet

http://i31.tinypic.com/f2jzgl.jpg

[ghost101]

Ive now hit the 857.25 limit. Is there an unlocked BIOS out there which works with powercolor hd3850 256mb cards?

Thanks.

[Random Murderer]

Ive now hit the 857.25 limit. Is there an unlocked BIOS out there which works with powercolor hs3850 256mb cards?

Thanks.

not that i know of, but i don't own a 3850.

[Source]

Guys whats the best bios for the HD3870 unlocked and with the fanfix ? Sorry I havent posted a while or had time to look, been working on my new mobo and memory compatibility issues. Please post a link please please please....

[Random Murderer]

Guys whats the best bios for the HD3870 unlocked and with the fanfix ? Sorry I havent posted a while or had time to look, been working on my new mobo and memory compatibility issues. Please post a link please please please....

it really depends on the card. you want what you want, nobody else knows. my advice is to grab the fanfix bios and modify it yourself to the clocks you want.

[Reset]

I was wondering if anybody can confirm whether the volt mod points are the same for the MSI RX3870-T2D512E-OC as my Sapphire HD 3870. The MSI card comes with the clocks at 800x1126 and the GPU reads 1.27v running Fur. So I am a little worried it is not the same as my Sapphire that has the volt mod and ran stock GPU at 1.35v. The MSI hardware looks pretty much the same though. Anybody know whether it is the same or not?

[Random Murderer]

I was wondering if anybody can confirm whether the volt mod points are the same for the MSI RX3870-T2D512E-OC as my Sapphire HD 3870. The MSI card comes with the clocks at 800x1126 and the GPU reads 1.27v running Fur. So I am a little worried it is not the same as my Sapphire that has the volt mod and ran stock GPU at 1.35v. The MSI hardware looks pretty much the same though. Anybody know whether it is the same or not?

any chance you could get a high res pic of the back of the card?
also, try measuring the resistance of R1222.

[Reset]

any chance you could get a high res pic of the back of the card?
also, try measuring the resistance of R1222.


The resistance of R1222 was 2.36K ohm.

This is the best pix I could make with my old camera.
RX3870-T2D512E OC

http://216.77.188.54/coDataImages/p/Groups/54/54714/folders/285552/2283919rx3870adj[800x600].JPG

[Random Murderer]

The resistance of R1222 was 2.36K ohm.

This is the best pix I could make with my old camera.
RX3870-T2D512E OC

http://216.77.188.54/coDataImages/p/Groups/54/54714/folders/285552/2283919rx3870adj[800x600].JPG

Thank you. It looks like a reference pcb, and judging by the increased resistance of R1222, 1.27v sounds about right. Either MSI screwed up R1222 or you have a cherrypicked core that requires less voltage.

[Reset]

Thank you. It looks like a reference pcb, and judging by the increased resistance of R1222, 1.27v sounds about right. Either MSI screwed up R1222 or you have a cherrypicked core that requires less voltage.

So do you think this board will use the same volt mod points and a 500K ohm VR as my Sapphire? Or would I need something totally different? I got this MSI card at Newegg for $230 open box. All I could see it was missing was the Crossfire ribbon. I had two of those anyway.

Also, what do your mean by Reference circuit board?

[Wile E]

So do you think this board will use the same volt mod points and a 500K ohm VR as my Sapphire? Or would I need something totally different? I got this MSI card at Newegg for $230 open box. All I could see it was missing was the Crossfire ribbon. I had two of those anyway.

Also, what do your mean by Reference circuit board?It uses the ATI designed circuit board, therefore it's called a "reference board". Some manufacturers don't use the ATI design, and stick the gpu on a board of their own design.

By having a reference board, the mod should be the same.

[barr3l rid3r]

Ok I've found a solution for Gigabyte HD3870 512MB DDR3 Qimonda.... System setup

VGA Gigabyte HD3870 512MB DDR3 Ultra-Durable vGPU + CoolerMod AiR
Default 780/1900Mhz @ 1000/2150Mhz
Intel 975xbx BadAxe 417Mhz fsb
Core2 Duo 6600 @ 3.8GHz Single
2x 2GB (4GB) Corsair 667Mhz @ 700Mhz

1 - Original Ver 70 locked bios 1.22V @ 1.34v 3D

maxed out at @859/2100Mhz (11800 Marks 3D06)

2 - Used a Sapphire 3850 512MB DDR3 Qimonda Bios
Ver 71 Unlocked Bios 1.22V ( http://www.techpowerup.com/vgabios/2347/Sapphire.HD3850.512.071108.html )

+ Editor to set 1.32V 3D And now I got 1.38V in Multimeter
@895/2100Mhz (12200 Marks 3D06)
( http://www.computerbase.de/downloads/treiber/grafikkarten/ati/computerbase_ati_bios-editor/?url=17592 )

Original
http://i31.tinypic.com/351ihw6.jpg




Moded
http://i25.tinypic.com/ohprgx.jpg
http://i31.tinypic.com/11ce538.jpg
http://i31.tinypic.com/fyzvnk.jpg
http://i32.tinypic.com/6srh4n.jpg
http://i27.tinypic.com/zmq03.jpg




3 - @ 1000Mhz/2150Mhz - 1.66v Unlocked Sapphire Bios - (13261 Marks 3D06)
http://service.futuremark.com/compare?3dm06=5333029


UPDATED

[asb2106]

UPDATED

thats impressive! It really took 1.66 volts to hit 1000mhz, wow!

[Reset]

It uses the ATI designed circuit board, therefore it's called a "reference board". Some manufacturers don't use the ATI design, and stick the gpu on a board of their own design.

By having a reference board, the mod should be the same.

My original bios rom had a setting of 1.3v high power clocks. I am wondering if I should bump that up to 1.327v with Computer Base ATI bios editor v0.91 beta? I don't know if this editor works for sure, do you?

If this editor works then I should try this before I try a hard volt mod. I am a little worried about the hard volt mod since the board is a little different than my Sapphire.

My cards are water cooled BTW.

Original MSI RX3870 bios -- this bios also runs the fans much faster than the Sapphire did, so it may be a good bios to modify:

[Random Murderer]

My original bios rom had a setting of 1.3v high power clocks. I am wondering if I should bump that up to 1.327v with Computer Base ATI bios editor v0.91 beta? I don't know if this editor works for sure, do you?

If this editor works then I should try this before I try a hard volt mod. I am a little worried about the hard volt mod since the board is a little different than my Sapphire.

My cards are water cooled BTW.

Original MSI RX3870 bios -- this bios also runs the fans much faster than the Sapphire did, so it may be a good bios to modify:

The BIOS editor does work, I have used it with great success.

[The Haunted]

thats impressive! It really took 1.66 volts to hit 1000mhz, wow!

Less than that... I can bench my card at 1026mhz and it "only" require 1.6 volt.
and at 1.7volt 1080mhz is the limit. Didn't tried higher voltages, don't want my card to end up at the same place as your's.:rolleyes:

[Random Murderer]

Less than that... I can bench my card at 1026mhz and it "only" require 1.6 volt.
and at 1.7volt 1080mhz is the limit. Didn't tried higher voltages, don't want my card to end up at the same place as your's.:rolleyes:

roflcopter. his ended up dead because he screwed up with the multimeter and broke a component.

[barr3l rid3r]

Less than that... I can bench my card at 1026mhz and it "only" require 1.6 volt.
and at 1.7volt 1080mhz is the limit. Didn't tried higher voltages, don't want my card to end up at the same place as your's.:rolleyes:


Is it watercooled? Mine is on air...

[Random Murderer]

Is it watercooled? Mine is on air...

yes, haunted's is water cooled, it's in his specs.

[Reset]

The BIOS editor does work, I have used it with great success.

RM, do you think the hard volt mod will work on my MSI card with 100k ohm VR? I said 500K ohm before. :banghead:

I tried the modded bios and it didn't seem to take the new voltage settings, so I am ready to hard mod.

EDIT: Never mind, I already hard modded it and it worked fine. Now on to testing what I can get out of this card. Im not sure what the maxed out volt should be on this one though since it started at 1.27v running FUR.

[Poulpy]

Less than that... I can bench my card at 1026mhz and it "only" require 1.6 volt.
and at 1.7volt 1080mhz is the limit. Didn't tried higher voltages, don't want my card to end up at the same place as your's.:rolleyes:


I havent been able to bench the card at 1100 or even at 1050.
1.7volts 3D or 2D ?
At 1.7v i still get VC driver reset (unresponsive) and if i increase the voltage to try to stabilize it, then before i can reach a stable state the computer reboots like if the cards didnt like the higher voltage.
So it seems like 1000 is the max i can reach and that with less than 1.60volts.

Did you do anything else to be able to bench at 1080 ? I dont really care about temps as both my VCs are on watercooling and dont go over 50°C even on full load at 1Ghz.

Help me get past 1000Mhz and i will brake the 20k barrier at 3DMark. 19800 right now...

[Random Murderer]

This is sort of off-topic, but keep an eye out for my next guide:
How-to: Turn your Creative sound card into a studio-grade card on-the-cheap!
I've completed half the mod on my card as well as Cold Storm's, we're just waiting on some more parts before the mods are completed. At this stage, the sound has already changed dramatically, and it sounds much better, all for $1.20 USD plus soldering time.:D:D:D

[Poulpy]

This is sort of off-topic, but keep an eye out for my next guide:
How-to: Turn your Creative sound card into a studio-grade card on-the-cheap!
I've completed half the mod on my card as well as Cold Storm's, we're just waiting on some more parts before the mods are completed. At this stage, the sound has already changed dramatically, and it sounds much better, all for $1.20 USD plus soldering time.:D:D:D
Hum interesting....which creative sound card are you talking about ?

[Random Murderer]

Hum interesting....which creative sound card are you talking about ?

Mine is an Audigy 2 ZS, Cold Storm's is an X-Fi Xtreme Music, but the mod should be the same for all X-Fi's and most Audigy's.

[tigger]

I'll be waiting on the details of this random,i will try this on my x-fi then.

[Random Murderer]

I'll be waiting on the details of this random,i will try this on my x-fi then.

Glad to hear you're already on board, lol.
I'm working on the images right now, expect the writeup today or tomorrow.

[asb2106]

Less than that... I can bench my card at 1026mhz and it "only" require 1.6 volt.
and at 1.7volt 1080mhz is the limit. Didn't tried higher voltages, don't want my card to end up at the same place as your's.:rolleyes:

hehe thanks! I should be getting my 3870 back in a week or so(hopefully!), and when I do Im going right for the hard mod. I have looked over the how-to probably 150 times now, and my goal is to hit 1000 - 1100 like you guys! Im thinking with water the temps wont get out of control, and Im excited to try and hit 15k!

[Random Murderer]

hehe thanks! I should be getting my 3870 back in a week or so(hopefully!), and when I do Im going right for the hard mod. I have looked over the how-to probably 150 times now, and my goal is to hit 1000 - 1100 like you guys! Im thinking with water the temps wont get out of control, and Im excited to try and hit 15k!

1000 shouldn't be a problem on water, 1100 is a bit iffy... When you reach a certain point, these cards need insane amounts of voltage to gain even a few more MHz.

[Poulpy]

1000 shouldn't be a problem on water, 1100 is a bit iffy... When you reach a certain point, these cards need insane amounts of voltage to gain even a few more MHz.

I tried to give it even 2.0v+ but i get instant reboot when it starts the proxycon test in 3DMark2006.
So i think i am just gone stick to 1000Mhz as there i "only" need 1.55v and its stable.
I will try to squize a few more mhz from my CPU to break that 20k barrier...so close.....

[Dr. Spankenstein]

I too, am running into heat issues with my CF setup @ over 1GHz. But I am happy to report that I can reach those speeds with only 1.53V. The stock cooler can't keep up with voltages over that without introducing artifacts.

My problem stems from the spacing of the two cards on my board, they literally touch so the top card is "choked-out" by the constant stream of hot, slow-moving air.

I have rethought my mobo choices and will be going for an ASUS Maximus Formula purely to negate this issue.

BTW, I have been talking with the guy who programmed the Fur Benchmark he's been letting me beat test the new "FurMark" he is working on. It does work with CF but not as well as it could. CF @ 970MHz got me 3987 points. I'll keep you all updated...

[asb2106]

I tried to give it even 2.0v+ but i get instant reboot when it starts the proxycon test in 3DMark2006.
So i think i am just gone stick to 1000Mhz as there i "only" need 1.55v and its stable.
I will try to squize a few more mhz from my CPU to break that 20k barrier...so close.....

Im thinking Ill be happy at the 1000mhz mark. And ~1.6 volts sounds doable! CANT WAIT TO GET MY 3870 back!!!!!:eek:

[The Haunted]

I don't think you can reach 1100 without changing some inductors and caps to higher rated ones (over current protection they say):ohwell: http://forum.foxconnchannel.com/TitleDetail.aspx?ID1=797909A6-8B22-4030-9954-0B5CB43B675F&ID2=90A64F8B-E54F-43A0-9676-98CB8E393B06&ID3=A033532C-69A1-416C-BBE1-18C8F3574FBF&Name1=Quantum+Force&Name2=MARS&Name3=3870+%40+1200MHz+Core+w+just+Dry+Ice
Way too hardcore for me, nearly killed my card soldering a simple wire...
I feel more comfortable with a hammer in my hand than a soldering iron:o

[asb2106]

I don't think you can reach 1100 without changing some inductors and caps to higher rated ones (over current protection they say):ohwell: http://forum.foxconnchannel.com/TitleDetail.aspx?ID1=797909A6-8B22-4030-9954-0B5CB43B675F&ID2=90A64F8B-E54F-43A0-9676-98CB8E393B06&ID3=A033532C-69A1-416C-BBE1-18C8F3574FBF&Name1=Quantum+Force&Name2=MARS&Name3=3870+%40+1200MHz+Core+w+just+Dry+Ice
Way too hardcore for me, nearly killed my card soldering a simple wire...
I feel more comfortable with a hammer in my hand than a soldering iron:o

that was one crazy read!

I would never get that crazy, if I maxed out at 950 even I would be happy, Ill do the hardmod(pretty good with a soldiering iron) (hopefully better than I was with a pencil :()And I will go from there

[cdawall]

I don't think you can reach 1100 without changing some inductors and caps to higher rated ones (over current protection they say):ohwell: http://forum.foxconnchannel.com/TitleDetail.aspx?ID1=797909A6-8B22-4030-9954-0B5CB43B675F&ID2=90A64F8B-E54F-43A0-9676-98CB8E393B06&ID3=A033532C-69A1-416C-BBE1-18C8F3574FBF&Name1=Quantum+Force&Name2=MARS&Name3=3870+%40+1200MHz+Core+w+just+Dry+Ice
Way too hardcore for me, nearly killed my card soldering a simple wire...
I feel more comfortable with a hammer in my hand than a soldering iron:o

good god thats insane

[sneekypeet]

I will whore it here as well, Please look here (http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=53220) and see if you can help the cause!:toast:

[trovah]

Cant you just remove the resistor and replace it with a 1kohm? Whats the size of the resistor? I could do this at work

[Poulpy]

I don't think you can reach 1100 without changing some inductors and caps to higher rated ones (over current protection they say):ohwell: http://forum.foxconnchannel.com/TitleDetail.aspx?ID1=797909A6-8B22-4030-9954-0B5CB43B675F&ID2=90A64F8B-E54F-43A0-9676-98CB8E393B06&ID3=A033532C-69A1-416C-BBE1-18C8F3574FBF&Name1=Quantum+Force&Name2=MARS&Name3=3870+%40+1200MHz+Core+w+just+Dry+Ice
Way too hardcore for me, nearly killed my card soldering a simple wire...
I feel more comfortable with a hammer in my hand than a soldering iron:o

That would explain exactly why i get a reboot.
Mod doesnt look that hard to do, but it looks dam messy. Maybe i could try just removing the resistors to bypass the overvoltage protection without adding the extra capacitors. On the other hand it seems like passing 1Ghz for some reasons those cards need a loot of cooling.
Nope i think i will just stick to 1Ghz, already pretty dam good in my opinion and maybe i will try this mod one day when i am ready to change VCs.

[Random Murderer]

Cant you just remove the resistor and replace it with a 1kohm? Whats the size of the resistor? I could do this at work

Yes, that would work, but it's tougher than simply shading a resistor with a pencil.
If you can do that, by all means, go ahead, make sure you give us pics. :D

[trovah]

Yes, that would work, but it's tougher than simply shading a resistor with a pencil.
If you can do that, by all means, go ahead, make sure you give us pics. :D

Well it does sound like more fun to replace it though :D

I might even go for: http://forum.foxconnchannel.com/TitleDetail.aspx?ID1=797909A6-8B22-4030-9954-0B5CB43B675F&ID2=90A64F8B-E54F-43A0-9676-98CB8E393B06&ID3=A033532C-69A1-416C-BBE1-18C8F3574FBF&Name1=Quantum+Force&Name2=MARS&Name3=3870+%40+1200MHz+Core+w+just+Dry+Ice

[Random Murderer]

Well it does sound like more fun to replace it though :D

I might even go for: http://forum.foxconnchannel.com/TitleDetail.aspx?ID1=797909A6-8B22-4030-9954-0B5CB43B675F&ID2=90A64F8B-E54F-43A0-9676-98CB8E393B06&ID3=A033532C-69A1-416C-BBE1-18C8F3574FBF&Name1=Quantum+Force&Name2=MARS&Name3=3870+%40+1200MHz+Core+w+just+Dry+Ice

That's useless unless you can keep the temperatures crazily low.

[Cuboard]

Hi,
I was looking to do the pencil Vcore mod on a Powercolor 3870, but it seems the PCB is different than the ones I've seen in the thread.
I couldn't find the R1222 resistor or the same layout of components to match any of the pics on the web.
I checked through the whole thread, but did not find anyone who had done this on the same card. ( unless I missed it by chance )

I will upload some pics if it's possible for someone to show me if it's possible and which resistor to 'shade'.

Thanks!

[Random Murderer]

Hi,
I was looking to do the pencil Vcore mod on a Powercolor 3870, but it seems the PCB is different than the ones I've seen in the thread.
I couldn't find the R1222 resistor or the same layout of components to match any of the pics on the web.
I checked through the whole thread, but did not find anyone who had done this on the same card. ( unless I missed it by chance )

I will upload some pics if it's possible for someone to show me if it's possible and which resistor to 'shade'.

Thanks!

Yes, please upload pics!
Any extra information on non-reference PCB's would benefit us all.

[Cuboard]

Here you go :)

http://aycu36.webshots.com/image/44115/2001540848232954587_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2001540848232954587)

http://aycu14.webshots.com/image/45573/2001517665537361363_th.jpg (http://allyoucanupload.webshots.com/v/2001517665537361363)

Hope I got the correct part of the card(6Pin power connector end)

clocks are 800/2340 default. I could upload the bios if it would be of use to someone for future ref.
Just have to figure out how ;)

Cheers!

[Random Murderer]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v630/Bobdole666/2001540848232954587_rs.jpg

there should be open points there, shade between them, measure the resistance and lower it SLOWLY.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v630/Bobdole666/2001517665537361363_rs.jpg

[Cuboard]

:( I've been shading for a couple of hours maybe hehe, no luck with getting the graphite to adhere.

It's at 1.686 resistance and I cannot get it any lower for the love of trying.
Tried a few different pencils.
It's just there's no resistor there and it dosn't wnat to stick to the PCB. I cannot get to the resistor other side either as the HS on the MOSFETS? is stuck good and proper.

I'm stumped, these things normaly go pretty easy hehe... not today :)

[Random Murderer]

:( I've been shading for a couple of hours maybe hehe, no luck with getting the graphite to adhere.

It's at 1.686 resistance and I cannot get it any lower for the love of trying.
Tried a few different pencils.
It's just there's no resistor there and it dosn't wnat to stick to the PCB. I cannot get to the resistor other side either as the HS on the MOSFETS? is stuck good and proper.

I'm stumped, these things normaly go pretty easy hehe... not today :)

i believe it was tigger who did this one, try roughing up the pcb slightly so that the lead will adhere.

[Cuboard]

It's not going so well.

I managed to get it to 'stick' took it down from 1.689 to 1.1 - no post
Removed all graphite, plugged in = post
Re-done, dropped it to 1.35 - no post. (< HS was pretty warm on when removing)
Removed and it posted again.
I have had no time to check to see if it increased Vcore or not as I would rather power-off before any damage is done when it's a no post.

I made sure no graphite got to any other components, so I can't understand why its doing this. Maybe this card is 'different' than some of the others?
Edit: In 2D mode at desktop it reads 1.3v in 3D (Ati fur) it reads 1.33v

Thanks

[Random Murderer]

It's not going so well.

I managed to get it to 'stick' took it down from 1.689 to 1.1 - no post
Removed all graphite, plugged in = post
Re-done, dropped it to 1.35 - no post.
Removed and it posted again.
I have had no time to check to see if it increased Vcore or not as I would rather power-off before any damage is done when it's a no post.

I made sure no graphite got to any other components, so I can't understand why its doing this. Maybe this card is 'different' than some of the others?
it definitely is, but the pwm chip and the surround components are the same.

[Cuboard]

Do you think I should try lowering it by just a smidge, maybe .1 ? and test?
Or is it a bit risky if it's changing a voltage besides the vcore?

[Cuboard]

it definitely is, but the pwm chip and the surround components are the same.

Yep it's different alright :)

I changed it with the slightest amount..from 1.689 to 1.630 and the voltage is 1.45 in 3D Ati fur.

So it really needs just the smallest amount of change to increase by a huge amount.

I am reading the resistance between them two points that are shaded with pencil, that is correct yep? I wonder why I don't get 1.5 resistance there as describe in 1st post.

What would be max vcore on air that people are using, I presume 1.4, might have to lower mine down a bit. if 1.45 is a bit too much.

[Random Murderer]

Yep it's different alright :)

I changed it with the slightest amount..from 1.689 to 1.630 and the voltage is 1.45 in 3D Ati fur.

So it really needs just the smallest amount of change to increase by a huge amount.

I am reading the resistance between them two points that are shaded with pencil, that is correct yep? I wonder why I don't get 1.5 resistance there as describe in 1st post.

What would be max vcore on air that people are using, I presume 1.4, might have to lower mine down a bit. if 1.45 is a bit too much.

mine's at 1.44v, and i'm using the stock cooler with a 7v mod to it.

the reason yours isn't reading 1.5kΩ is because you're reading a different point than i used in the first post.

[Cuboard]

I'm using the stcok cooler, it runs at 100% the whole time, cannot be adjusted-only has 2 wires from it.
I've got it to 931/1251 at 1.43v core, it's pretty hit and miss with the pencil, might take it up a bit higher if it's safe. Got to find out max voltage and temps.
It gets pretty hot 68c, and around 80c near the power regs.
Not sure if that's ok with these cards, havn't done any overclocking since 9800pro days.



Will do a few benches later.

Thanks for your time helping me Random Murderer, really appreciate it :)

[Random Murderer]

I'm using the stcok cooler, it runs at 100% the whole time, cannot be adjusted-only has 2 wires from it.
I've got it to 931/1251 at 1.43v core, it's pretty hit and miss with the pencil, might take it up a bit higher if it's safe. Got to find out max voltage and temps.
It gets pretty hot 68c, and around 80c near the power regs.
Not sure if that's ok with these cards, havn't done any overclocking since 9800pro days.



Will do a few benches later.

Thanks for your time helping me Random Murderer, really appreciate it :)

hey, that's what i'm here for ;)

as far as the 7v mod for the fan goes, it's quite simple. unplug the fan from the card. run a wire from the 12v terminal in a molex connector to the positive of the fan, and run a wire from the 5v terminal to the negative of the fan. voila! 7v fan!

[Cuboard]

That's a cool idea, but I could do with running it from a 16v lol, it's idle temp is 58c.
I think the 2d clocks are the same as the 3D clocks, and the voltage seems the same nearly too.
Maybe I need to edit a bios to get lower idle temps. Maybe that's my next task.

[DanishDevil]

You could always try flashing it with another BIOS. I don't know if that would be recommended, as the card definitely isn't reference. As far as I know, as long as you back up the BIOS on the card now, you won't mess it up. Don't try it unless one of these gurus here approve it though :)

[Cuboard]

Cool, I'll await some advice as you say.
I was thinking maybe edit the orginal bios to get the desired clocks maybe the 2D voltage too.
Never done a bios edit before, so will wait for some guru's advice :)

[Random Murderer]

Cool, I'll await some advice as you say.
I was thinking maybe edit the orginal bios to get the desired clocks maybe the 2D voltage too.
Never done a bios edit before, so will wait for some guru's advice :)

send me the bios and i'll edit it for you, save time that way :toast:

[Cuboard]

Cheers! I didn't know where to send it so I uploaded it - renamed as text file as I couldn't get a zip or .bin allowed.

Edit: Could I ask another favour, if you could point me in the direction of the flash utility and commands to get the flash done :) EDIT 2: its ok I found ati winflash thingy.

Thanks again!

[Random Murderer]

here ya go.:toast:

[Cuboard]

Wow that was quick ! nice one, cheers :toast:

[kenkickr]

How do you measure the resistance of R1222? I measured 1.34 while running FUR benchmark for the voltage but when I pull the card out to measure the R1222 resistance I get nothing on my multi-meter! :(

Also I just lapped my heatsink here at work and will let y'all know how the temps are when I get home tonight.

[Cuboard]

here ya go.:toast:

Thanks for the bios, but it seems the 2D/Desktop voltage stay the same 1.43v and when in 3d/Game, it goes to 1.45v-1.46v

The lower clock has lowered teh temps in 2D though to a around 40c , big improvement :toast:

[Random Murderer]

Thanks for the bios, but it seems the 2D/Desktop voltage stay the same 1.43v and when in 3d/Game, it goes to 1.45v-1.46v

The lower clock has lowered teh temps in 2D though to a around 40c , big improvement :toast:

well then, i can lower the voltage further in 2d if you'd like.

[ghost101]

If anyone was looking for a HD3850 256MB unlocked bios, heres one. Took me a ehile to find it. This one is a modded HIS bios which worked perfectly with my powercolor card. Clocks are 750/950 with 1.327v.

[Cuboard]

well then, i can lower the voltage further in 2d if you'd like.

That would be great. Shame there's no program to monitor voltage, it dosnt show up in Riva tuner or Atitool.

I'm not sure it is actually using 2D settings. It does clock at 300/846 now,
but voltage is the same well underload it goes up from 1.43v to 1.46v

[Random Murderer]

That would be great. Shame there's no program to monitor voltage, it dosnt show up in Riva tuner or Atitool.

I'm not sure it is actually using 2D settings. It does clock at 300/846 now,
but voltage is the same well underload it goes up from 1.43v to 1.46v

new. just ask if you want the voltage even lower. it's not tough to do. i'm lowering it in small increments so as not to lower it too much.

[Cuboard]

Thanks, I'll give this one a try and report back.

[Cuboard]

Still the same, boots up at 1.45v, goes into desktop drops to 1.43v. Start AtiTool fur - goes to 1.46v

Maybe it's not using the voltages from the bios like other 'normal' cards do?

[Random Murderer]

Still the same, boots up at 1.45v, goes into desktop drops to 1.43v. Start AtiTool fur - goes to 1.46v

maybe your voltage can't be controlled by bios.
i can lower it insanely, but you would use that bios at your own risk.

[Cuboard]

Couldn't I.. use it blame you.. demand new? :laugh:

Well I can try lower, but I think the card, as you say, does not change voltage from bios. As nothing is moving at all, only the +.3v increase underload.
Maybe that is why they put a fan on it at 100% the whole time?
Seems strange way to go about it, in this day and age, with all the "Save energy!" malarky.

THis is the card if anyone wants to avoid it :)
http://www.cpu3d.com/content/view/4004/53/1/2/

EDIT:
I was just looking at the other 3870 pics around, and it seems this powercolor one has less of them grey blocks(power regulators?) This card has 2 where others have 4.
I'm wondering if it is a good idea to have a Vmod on a card that is not up to the job.

[DanishDevil]

By comparing your pictures to W1zzard's thread "Feedback Needed..." and see if your card supports software voltage control:

http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=53220

Your card indeed does NOT support software voltage control. Resistor R636/R639 is placed vertically.

If you would be so kind as to report that in that thread for W1zz, I'm sure he would appreciate it.

[Random Murderer]

By comparing your pictures to W1zzard's thread "Feedback Needed..." and see if your card supports software voltage control:

http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=53220

Your card indeed does NOT support software voltage control. Resistor R636/R639 is placed vertically.

If you would be so kind as to report that in that thread for W1zz, I'm sure he would appreciate it.

i noticed that too, but we're still not sure if no software control = no bios control.

[kenkickr]

I tried some more with checking the resistor and I just can't figure it out. I get readings around 11-1800 something. Do I set the multi meter to 20k? Also I am using the fan bracket on the back as my ground.

Lapping so far has paid off. Right now my idle is at 32 and the AS5 hasn't even come close to curing. Also keep in mind I have an Antec Solo case so piss pore cooling and before my idle was 36-37 Celcius. Still playing but I would like to figure out this resistor so I can mod and OC this BEATCH!!

[Random Murderer]

I tried some more with checking the resistor and I just can't figure it out. I get readings around 11-1800 something. Do I set the multi meter to 20k? Also I am using the fan bracket on the back as my ground.

Lapping so far has paid off. Right now my idle is at 32 and the AS5 hasn't even come close to curing. Also keep in mind I have an Antec Solo case so piss pore cooling and before my idle was 36-37 Celcius. Still playing but I would like to figure out this resistor so I can mod and OC this BEATCH!!

you really shouldn't measure the resistance while the computer is on...
also, try using your highest resistance setting on your dmm at first and moving it down until it won't read anymore, then moving it back up one setting.

[kenkickr]

I am not testing in the system. The only thing I tested while in the case was the voltage then pulled it out and tested it on the oven(I live in an apartment so that is my work bench. What other use would I have for the oven LOL!!

[Random Murderer]

I am not testing in the system. The only thing I tested while in the case was the voltage then pulled it out and tested it on the oven(I live in an apartment so that is my work bench. What other use would I have for the oven LOL!!

lol. my workbench is my (cluttered) desk.
i swear something's gonna catch on fire one of these days while i'm soldering...

[Random Murderer]

remember a while back when i mentioned a sound card guide? i didn't forget, i'm waiting on some parts so i can finish the mod...

[Cuboard]

I know this is slight off topic, but can anyone tell me if this card is a stripped down version.
Looking at this pic, you can see it has less components than other 3870s.
http://www.cpu3d.com/index2.php?option=com_mgm&task=viewimage&pop=1&gl=394&image=DSC06346.jpg

ALso what temps do you get on your 3870's?
I dont wnat to burn the card up, especialy if it is a cutdown on quality. ;)

Cheers!

[Random Murderer]

i would say it's a non-reference design, not necessarily "stripped down."

[Cuboard]

Would you think it's ok to keep it volt modded to 1.46 and running at 55c idle and 70 ish when gaming. I just want to be on the safe'ish side, if it is a bit different. It seems to clock pretty well with this mod, so would like to keep the volt mod.
Your oppinion is much appreciated :)

[sneekypeet]

Would you think it's ok to keep it volt modded to 1.46 and running at 55c idle and 70 ish when gaming. I just want to be on the safe'ish side, if it is a bit different. It seems to clock pretty well with this mod, so would like to keep the volt mod.
Your oppinion is much appreciated :)

A stock cooler will run it as high as 90+*C so you are fine on temps!

[Cuboard]

Thanks, that's reassuring to know :) What do you think is safe max vcore on these cards? I've looked about everywhere, but nobody mentions whats safe on air.

[sneekypeet]

Thanks, that's reassuring to know :) What do you think is safe max vcore on these cards? I've looked about everywhere, but nobody mentions whats safe on air.

Each card is different in what it can take.....look at temps and performance as a guide....if temps get too high , stop. When you hit a wall on raising clocks, stop.

It's trial and error really , just go slow and do lots of monitored testing!

[Random Murderer]

70°C is just fine.
the stock bios doesn't even kick the fan on until 95°C.

[Random Murderer]

Thanks, that's reassuring to know :) What do you think is safe max vcore on these cards? I've looked about everywhere, but nobody mentions whats safe on air.

Each card is different in what it can take.....look at temps and performance as a guide....if temps get too high , stop. When you hit a wall on raising clocks, stop.

It's trial and error really , just go slow and do lots of monitored testing!

there's actually an over-voltage protection on these cards. that's not to say you shouldn't monitor temps, just saying that you can't really fry the card by overvolting it.
you actually experienced this protection when you shaded too much and it wouldn't boot.

[Cuboard]

Cool, that's nice to know also :)

I have seen some strange voltage changes when the card is under load. It's like it ups the voltage when the card needs it. When I benched 3DMark06, the voltage went from 1.50v to 1.51v, and even hit 1.52 at one stage in the run. Then when back to desktop it dropped to 1.50 where it stayed until I rebooted.
When it first boots up the voltage hangs at 1.49, then when it gets into windows it drops to 1.46v, where it stays until 3D is started. Then it goes to 1.49 and up as I overclock or run 3Dmark06.

I have a pic with temps and clocks & score. I had side offf and placed another fan* under teh card blowing at it to keep it cooler.
(*need to do that 7v fan mod as it's a noisey bugger)

Well I'll stick with these voltages and see if it runs ok for a while, cheers for the great support! :toast:

http://aycu34.webshots.com/image/47113/2002176660610332997_rs.jpg


Edit: seems 945Mhz core even@ 1.5v is not stable in Crysis.
Adjusted it to 1.43v at desktop 1.45 in 3D and it is stable in couple of hours (so far) of Crysis at 931/1251

[Cuboard]

It does seem that the voltage is changing +3 when it goes from 2D to 3D.

Maybe its using some other settings in the bios beyond the standard 3870's.
Might be possible to change voltages somehow.

Oh I can see the most dumbest mistake I made in them previous Bioses I posted that Random Murderer edited. I named the 'Saphire' when it is actually Powercolor. :/

[ace80]

I need to rma my 3870 as it randomly loses the vga signal, sometimes i don't even get a signal to start with.
Firstly i need to reflash the origonal bios, now i can do it blind but would rather not.
I've got my old x1800 in the 1st slot and 3870 in the second, when using atiflash do i just replace "0" with "1"?
Its been so long since i've flashed with 2 cards i just can't remember :p

[ace80]

I've just had a rather surprising evening with my 3870;
firstly the loss of vga signal every now and again,
secondly i noticed my voltages were fluctuating wildly between 0.3-1.65v
When the monitor went blank voltages dropped to 0-0.3v
Then i suddenly went through a couple of hours of everything working except whenever i opened a 3d app blank screen and the gfx fan went mental.

So i reflashed origonal bios and cleaned the card thoroughly with rubbing alcohol to remove all traces of the pencil mod. NOW MY CARD WORKS PERFECTLY (and a little better)

When i first got the card max clock was 864mhz to what i thought was the clock lock, now i just ran 3d06 @ 918mhz stock voltage 1.327v :D
Tried a notch higher @ 935mhz and it crashed halfway through firefly forest.
So it looks like i no longer need to RMA it, I'll prob try the pencil mod again but be alot more careful of my application next time.

[Random Murderer]

I've just had a rather surprising evening with my 3870;
firstly the loss of vga signal every now and again,
secondly i noticed my voltages were fluctuating wildly between 0.3-1.65v
When the monitor went blank voltages dropped to 0-0.3v
Then i suddenly went through a couple of hours of everything working except whenever i opened a 3d app blank screen and the gfx fan went mental.

So i reflashed origonal bios and cleaned the card thoroughly with rubbing alcohol to remove all traces of the pencil mod. NOW MY CARD WORKS PERFECTLY (and a little better)

When i first got the card max clock was 864mhz to what i thought was the clock lock, now i just ran 3d06 @ 918mhz stock voltage 1.327v :D
Tried a notch higher @ 935mhz and it crashed halfway through firefly forest.
So it looks like i no longer need to RMA it, I'll prob try the pencil mod again but be alot more careful of my application next time.

yea, my card has been freaking out lately as well. it seems that if you don't put something over the pencil lead, it will gradually blow away...

[Cold Storm]

yea, my card has been freaking out lately as well. it seems that if you don't put something over the pencil lead, it will gradually blow away...

Yeah it does, for the simple fact that you have the air from you case pushing air though and on your back side of the card. A pencil mod is like anything else you wrote in grade school with a pencil, after awhile it dulls.. and with wind, its just like sand, moves away.

Thats my thoughts on pencil mods... Its a great thing to do, but you have to keep up with it or your going to get it in the end. But a simple way to fix things all so...

[jakal]

Did anybody try out the new RBE program to change voltages etc...?

[Random Murderer]

Yeah it does, for the simple fact that you have the air from you case pushing air though and on your back side of the card. A pencil mod is like anything else you wrote in grade school with a pencil, after awhile it dulls.. and with wind, its just like sand, moves away.

Thats my thoughts on pencil mods... Its a great thing to do, but you have to keep up with it or your going to get it in the end. But a simple way to fix things all so...
yea, but when it sticks, it's stuck. i even made sure to use a can of compressed air to blow away the excess...
Did anybody try out the new RBE program to change voltages etc...?

no, do you have a link?

[ace80]

yea, my card has been freaking out lately as well. it seems that if you don't put something over the pencil lead, it will gradually blow away...I put a temporary cover over the lead which obviously didn't do much considering what happened.
How are most of you guys covering the pencil mod?
Also i'm a little confused as to why the clock lock limit is no longer there after reflashing origonal bios?

[Cuboard]

yea, but when it sticks, it's stuck. i even made sure to use a can of compressed air to blow away the excess...


no, do you have a link?

Here it is, not tried it myself.

http://forums.techpowerup.com/showthread.php?t=54163

[Source]

Woohooo my 3870X2 should be here tomorrow !!

[Cold Storm]

yea, but when it sticks, it's stuck. i even made sure to use a can of compressed air to blow away the excess...


Yeah, that is true, but here is the thing. Your card is going from stable to extreme then to stable. And from the heat, it's heating up R1222 and also cooling down it. From that your mod is heating up, the Graphite. Even if you blow the excess away, your looking at an agent that is heating up and cooling down again and again. Thus the graphite is heating up and cooling down, losing its hold on the R1222. If there isn't anything that can cover that spot perm, then its going to do this. Remember how you got the stock fan apart, going from an extreme heat to extreme cold?
Thats my look on it, and so forth. Just get some type of metal object and put lead from a H2 Pencil on it, enough that makes it look like the amount on R1222 and, heat up, cool down, and so forth. But you can't do it in just one night..It has to be a few days.. Even the first night, you'll be able to see a difference when you blow the can of air on it after it has cooled down...

[Source]

can you enable or disable the crossfire on the HD3870 X2 or is it always on ?

[Random Murderer]

can you enable or disable the crossfire on the HD3870 X2 or is it always on ?

it's always on. the computer sees it as one card thanks to the plx chip.

[Source]

it's always on. the computer sees it as one card thanks to the plx chip.

It's a bummer it only shows the one card for memory etc in CCC.

[DanishDevil]

Allright Random Murderer. I started pencil modding today with my HIS 3870 and a 4H pencil. Here are some interesting tidbits that I found:

Stock voltage: 1.3
Stock resistance: 1.9k

Here's what I put together with a few trials of shading/unshading and testing voltages:

http://img.techpowerup.org/080307/chart.jpg

I'm going to test OCing starting at the closest to stock pencil mod and let you know how it goes. I tried pretty hard to get past 1.41V, but maybe these cards are meant to work at lower voltages than the original batch and come with higher-rated resistors? I'll be sure to let you know how they go.

[Random Murderer]

Allright Random Murderer. I started pencil modding today with my HIS 3870 and a 4H pencil. Here are some interesting tidbits that I found:

Stock voltage: 1.3
Stock resistance: 1.9k

Here's what I put together with a few trials of shading/unshading and testing voltages:

http://img.techpowerup.org/080307/chart.jpg

I'm going to test OCing starting at the closest to stock pencil mod and let you know how it goes. I tried pretty hard to get past 1.41V, but maybe these cards are meant to work at lower voltages than the original batch and come with higher-rated resistors? I'll be sure to let you know how they go.

that's odd. mine gets 1.44v at around 980Ω.

[DanishDevil]

Yeah. Yours also comes stock at 1.35V @ 1.5kΩ. Mine was 1.3V @ 1.9kΩ.

Either way, it's working, and I'm sure it'll give me some OCing headroom. I kinda wanna take care of this cooler before I do any OCing though:

http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54636

[Random Murderer]

Yeah. Yours also comes stock at 1.35V @ 1.5kΩ. Mine was 1.3V @ 1.9kΩ.

Either way, it's working, and I'm sure it'll give me some OCing headroom. I kinda wanna take care of this cooler before I do any OCing though:

http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54636

yea, i was reading that earlier. wasn't gonna bother replying until i though of a good way for you to lap that.

actually, i just thought of one. get a pl