A microcode algorithm problem that is causing major stability problems, to the point of damaging some of Intel's high-end processors.
At the end of June, we spoke of a " thorn in Intel's side " with these stability problems in 13th and 14th generation Core i9s. These problems were initially blamed on motherboard manufacturers, who were accused of not complying with Intel's official recommendations. Intel urged its partners to provide users with what it called " Intel Default Settings ", designed to correct the situation. But nothing came of this, and above all, there was still no clear identification of the problem. It wasn't until the end of last week that Intel finally seemed to have found a solution, issuing a press release to clarify matters.
" Based on an in-depth analysis of Intel Core 13th/14th generation desktop processors returned to us due to instability issues, we have determined that high operating voltages are causing instability issues in some 13th/14th generation desktop processors. Our analysis of the returned processors confirms that these high operating voltages result from a microcode algorithm causing incorrect voltage requests to the processor. Intel is providing a microcode patch that corrects the problem at the root of these high voltages. We are continuing to validate this patch to ensure that the instability scenarios reported to Intel concerning its Core 13th/14th generation desktop processors are properly addressed. Intel is targeting mid-August for the release of patches to partners, after full validation. Intel is committed to addressing this situation with our customers, and we continue to ask all customers currently experiencing instability issues on their Intel Core 13th/14thgeneration desktop processors to contact Intel customer support for further assistance."
A Core i9-14900K not exempt from reproach © Intel
Following this press release, several media outlets tried to find out more, and The Verge in particular was able to obtain some interesting answers. First of all, we learn that " all 13thand 14thgeneration desktop processorswith a TDP of 65 watts or more may be affected by this issue ", i.e. many more chips than initially expected. Intel has also confirmed that it has no intention of organizing a widespread chip recall. Intel is convinced that the patch expected in mid-August " will provide an effective preventive solution for processors already in service ". However, there will be no question of "repairing" defective chips, with Intel stating that " customers experiencing instability issues [...] should contact Intel customer support for further assistance ". What's more, Intel has yet to clarify the issue of warranty extension, although the company explains that it is " committed to ensuring that all customers who have experienced or are currently experiencing instability symptoms on their13th/14th generation desktop processor will be supported as part of the exchange process ".
One thing is certain: while the 13th and 14th generations of Intel processors have already been criticized for disappointing performance compared to the 12th generation, it seems high time for the American company to switch to a new architecture. Arrow Lake is due to arrive in October. It's about time.
