Introduction

Like all Goldfinger devices, the FreeSpeed pro Overclocking plug-in for AMD Athlon processors, does not address the Overclocking of the processor cache. Really, what the FreeSpeed does is intervene at the multiplier, and at the processor voltage. If you consider an initial base frequency of 100Mhz, the FreeSpeed Pro permits the clock to be set anywhere between 500Mhz and 1050Mhz (in steps of 50Mhz) by the use of a multiplier to be set anywhere from 5X, to 10.5X, in steps of 0.5X. As well, it is allowing the processor's core voltage to be set between 1.45V, and 1.90V. In short, these options provide the user with a great deal more latitude; allowing them to push their AMD processors to the limit.

Description/installation

To start, the FreeSpeed card requires an external power source, that can be relayed from a disk driver power connector - as seen on the photo.

Before plugging in the FreeSpeed Pro, though, take the time to position the Dip switches to match the original operating frequency of the processor, in order to make certain that everything is in perfect working order.

Once those adjustments are made, plug the card into the processor, as shown in the photo.

One thing to note, by far the most complicated bit of installation work comes in actually opening up the processor cartridge, in order to gain access to the connector where the FreeSpeed Pro is meant to be inserted. To begin the process, it is necessary to remove the backside of the cartridge. First, remove the fan, and disengage the two clips holding-down the heat-sink, and remove it. That done, you should now see 8 small, silvery points that serve as retention pins. The 4 in the middle serve to hold the processor to the heat-dissipation plate, while the outer 4 hold the back-plate that we want to remove. To remove the back-plate, you must simply place the cartridge flat on your work-table - heat-dissipation plate down - and insert vertically the point of a screwdriver on the side of the cartridge in line with one of the pins. Carefully pry down the handle of the screwdriver in order to raise the back of the cartridge, and turn the handle to force the separation of the back. It's important to utilize patience, as it will be necessary to repeat this procedure for each of the four pins; the back-plate is held in place very tightly and will therefore require pretty much pressure to be disengaged.