CPU Crashes Explained
After weeks of confusion, Intel finally admitted the cause of recent crashes in its high-end 13th and 14th-generation Core processors. A faulty microcode algorithm, a tiny piece of code inside the CPU, is sending incorrect voltage levels, making the processors unstable. This explains the crashes reported by users performing demanding tasks like gaming and video editing.
Patch on the Way
The good news is that Intel is releasing a microcode patch in mid-August to fix the problem. This patch will essentially update the microcode and eliminate the voltage issue.
Mobile CPUs Not Affected (According to Intel)
While some reports suggested mobile CPUs were also crashing, Intel claims this isn’t due to the same problem as desktops. They believe mobile CPU crashes are caused by various software and hardware issues.
Developer Disputes Intel’s Claims
A game developer, Alderon Games, disagrees with Intel. They say their Intel-powered servers, laptops, and benchmarking tools experienced crashes similar to desktops. They even urged Intel to recall the affected processors.
Intel Says Data Shows Otherwise
In response to Alderon Games’ claims, Intel insists their data shows mobile CPU crashes are unrelated. However, Alderon Games maintains their stance, providing details about crashes happening on Razer, MSI, and Asus laptops with Intel processors.
The Takeaway
If you’ve been experiencing crashes on your Intel 13th or 14th-generation desktop CPU, a fix is coming in mid-August. As for mobile CPUs, Intel claims they are not affected, but some developers disagree. We’ll have to wait and see how the situation unfolds.