Undervolting
pcReduction of voltage supplied to a computer component to improve efficiency.
expanded
Undervolting refers to the process of reducing the voltage input to a computer component, such as a CPU or GPU, with the intent to decrease power consumption and heat generation while maintaining stable performance. This technique can extend the lifespan of components and reduce thermal stress, thereby enhancing cooling efficiency and potentially allowing for quieter operation. It is crucial for applications where power efficiency is prioritized, such as in mobile or limited-power environments.
examples
Undervolting a CPU from 1.2 V to 1.1 V while maintaining stable operations under typical workloads.
Commonly employed in custom PC builds where thermal management is a priority, especially in compact or noise-sensitive applications.
Lowering a GPU's voltage by 0.1 V, resulting in a 5% reduction in power usage without performance degradation.
Frequently used in gaming laptops to balance performance and battery longevity.