Popular graphics card monitoring and overclocking tool, MSI Afterburner, has received a beta update enabling owners of Nvidia’s RTX 50-series GPUs to boost their GDDR7 memory speeds by up to 10%. This enhancement allows data transfer rates to reach up to 36 gigatransfers per second (GT/s), surpassing Nvidia’s standard specifications.
The RTX 50-series graphics cards are equipped with GDDR7 memory modules rated between 28GT/s and 32GT/s. However, Nvidia often sets default data transfer rates slightly lower, at 28GT/s for most models and 30GT/s for the RTX 5080, to ensure stability and longevity. The new update to MSI Afterburner unlocks the potential to exceed these factory settings, offering enthusiasts the opportunity to maximize their hardware’s performance.
To utilize this feature, users must replace a specific database file within MSI Afterburner version 4.6.6 Beta 5 Build 16555. This modification extends the memory clock adjustment range, facilitating higher overclocking capabilities. Detailed instructions and the necessary files are available on the Guru3D forums, where Unwinder has provided guidance on implementing the update.
It’s important to note that while this update unlocks higher memory speeds, overclocking carries inherent risks. Memory controllers may not be designed to operate consistently at these elevated speeds, potentially leading to system instability or reduced hardware lifespan. Users are advised to proceed with caution and ensure they have adequate cooling solutions in place to manage the increased thermal output associated with higher memory frequencies.
This development is particularly significant for RTX 5080 users, whose cards come with 32GT/s memory modules downclocked to 30GT/s by default. The update enables these users to fully leverage their hardware’s capabilities, potentially achieving data transfer rates beyond the original specifications.
While MSI Afterburner has traditionally been a go-to tool for GPU overclocking, some users have explored alternatives like Asus’ GPU Tweak III, which also supports GDDR7 memory overclocking on RTX 50-series cards. However, the recent update to MSI Afterburner reaffirms its position as a versatile utility for enthusiasts seeking to push their graphics cards beyond factory limits.
As always, users are encouraged to thoroughly research and understand the implications of overclocking their hardware. While the prospect of enhanced performance is enticing, it should be balanced against the potential risks to system stability and component longevity.
Apple is less than a day away from launching its highly anticipated OLED MacBook Pro with a touch-sensitive screen. But it appears that the upgrade is going to cost a pretty penny. According to a report by Bloomberg, Apple is reportedly eyeing a starting price of $2,899 for the 14-inch MacBook Pro, while the 16-inch version could start at $3,399 in the US.
"At $2,899, the 14-inch model would mark the highest starting price for a new MacBook Pro model, surpassing the $2,799 Apple charged for a 17-inch version introduced in 2006," says the report. The report claims that Apple is targeting a minimum price hike of $400 for its upcoming redesigned 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models.
I've spent a good amount of time digging into the spec sheet of the new M6 MacBook Pro (14-inch), and for all intents and purposes, this is a classic Apple "chip and connectivity" refresh. It's not a full redesign. The chassis, Liquid Retina XDR panel, speakers, ports, and battery, all of them carry over unchanged.
However, the M6 brings more cores, stronger on-device AI, higher memory bandwidth on the larger configs, and modern wireless. Here’s the practical rundown of what actually improved, and whether those gains are worth your money.
Two new highly requested iCloud plugins just got added to ChatGPT, giving people who rely on Apple’s Mail and Calendar services a way to search emails, check appointments, and manage their schedules directly through the chatbot.
The integration is rolling out to all ChatGPT plans, including the free tier. You can access it on the web, desktop, and iOS.