Are you determined to apply a little overclocking to your system? Do you think you won't have problems gaining some extra MHz? Determining the exact point between increased speed and the stability threshold demands many tests, and of course, the right tools. It has been mentioned on previous occasions, but OCCT never had a dedicated entry until now. With a total of four tests and various configuration options, OCCT will help you find out if there's any weak link in your overclocking project.
Why Stress Test?
While it's true that pushing a component beyond its original specifications can affect its lifespan (or end it abruptly), with enough precautions, a system that has already had its share of use under normal parameters can gain a bit more speed if you perform overclocking. Now, this isn't just raising the processor frequency or the graphics card. Overclocking a computer can demand many hours, even days, to definitively check if the new frequencies are stable.
Not many programs can take a computer to its maximum capacity. Many overclockers use video games as a stability measure, but if you're looking for tools specifically designed to stress a computer, you need something like OCCT.
The Four Tests
OCCT offers a total of four main tests: two for the processor (one based on an internal method, and the other on Linpack), one for the graphics card, and another for the power supply. OCCT can run these tests until an error appears, or for a specified amount of time. It's also possible to modify other conditions, for example, whether the test should use all CPU cores at once.
Probably the most dangerous test is the one for the power supply. If it's of good quality, the power supply should be able to withstand the extra stress. If there's a fault, in the best case the power supply will shut down your computer as a protection measure. And in the worst case, well... I think you can imagine it.
The Dangers
This brings us to the usual warning: Stress tests can cause damage to your computer (something that also applies to similar tools and some benchmarking utilities), and OCCT is no exception. You are the one who clicks to start the tests, you are responsible if something goes wrong.
Licensing and Download
OCCT has gained a good reputation over the years it has been providing this service. Therefore, OCCT is completely free for personal use, but for professional use you'll need to purchase a license (prices range from one dollar per month and fifteen for a perpetual license, up to 150 dollars for network deployment).
