GTX770 Power Limit

[flyoffacliff]

I have a GIGABYTE GV-N770OC-4GD (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814125462). In the latest vesion of MSI Afterburner, the power target would go up to 102%.

The TDP of the card is 230W. But the cooler is rated for 450W, and the power supply 300W (PCI + 6 pin connecter + 8 pin connecter).

So I modified the BIOS with Kepler Bios Tweaker and set the power limit to 133%, and flashed it. I ran a stress test and got the card to use almost the full 133%.

But why would GIGABYTE set the limit at just 102%? Is setting it this high safe?

I read that increasing the power limit is completely safe (unlike increasing the voltage), as long as the temperature is okay.

 

[joecop120]

Saying the cooler is rated for 450w is mostly marketing. It can most likely handle 450w with all fans 100%, but Gigabyte isn't telling you to have the card at that level.

The board's traces and other components may not be rated for the increase in current, and could burn out, killing the card.

I wouldn't do it unless you have the money to buy a new card.

 

[primetime]

But why would GIGABYTE set the limit at just 102%?

it likely reduces rmas in the long run....and saves them money in that department...i think you be ok as long as temps stay low enough...but like was mentioned there's always increased risk with overclocking....really just stating the obvious...if your were a stock holder in the company you might better understand the decrease in profits when they have to replace parts under warranty...its pretty simple really