The central processing unit (pcdesigner) of a computer is sometimes put through what is known as a CPU stress test. This type of test can help an IT tech to determine the ability of a computer to handle certain situations. Oftentimes, IT technicians will want to make modifications to certain parameters that operate the CPU that they are evaluating, such as when under-clocking (which allows a CPU to operate at a slower speed that eliminates the need for a fan to cool the unit); over-clocking (which allows the CPU to be tested for higher processing speeds but at the risk of becoming overheated, thus the test looks at whether an additional cooling method is needed); under-volting (to save power) or over-volting (to increase performance).
CPU Stress Test Types
When an IT tech or computer programmer wants to achieve one of these states of functionality with a CPU that they are testing, they run a stress test, much like a doctor often runs a stress test before surgery to make sure that a patient’s heart can withstand the stress that it will endure during surgery. Heavier CPU loads can render new parameters set about by over-and-under-clocking or under-and-over-volting unsuitable. Programs that are CPU intensive are the best way to check a CPU for its ability to handle these stressors, and there are many programs out there work by running for extended periods of time to see if the computer being tested will freeze up or crash if the event takes place. CPU stress testing is also sometimes called torture testing. When selecting CPU testing software, it is important that you make sure that the software will run instructions that will use the entire CPU chip, not just a part of it – this is because software must give the result of a full use of the computer to be accurate. Many programs will run only a few units so they are not suitable for “torturing” your CPU.
Cautions
If you are not an IT technician or a programmer either by hobby or by nature, then you should avoid placing your computer into a situation that will necessitate the need for this type of testing. It can be very simple to mess up an entry that is required during the testing process and literally “fry” your computer. If you want to enhance the operational properties of your CPU but are not quite sure what you are doing, it is always in your best interest (and the best interests of your computer) to allow a professional that is willing to guarantee their work to handle the task.