The Evolution of EVGA Precision X Voltage Pascal: A Step Forward or a Step Back?

Since the Pascal generation, Nvidia has introduced a new approach to voltage control for its graphics processing units (GPUs). Gone are the days of manual voltage adjustments in millivolts (mV); instead, we now have a percentage symbol displayed in the bracket behind the voltage. While this change may seem insignificant at first glance, it has had a profound impact on the way we overclock and undervolt our GPUs.

Previous OC tools such as MSI's Afterburner and EVGA's Precision X were able to increase the voltages of Nvidia GPUs with ease. However, with the new Pascal-based architecture, things have become more complicated. The Precision X software now features a manual mode that allows users to select and configure various points on the frequency-to-voltage curve. While this may seem like a powerful tool at first blush, it quickly becomes overwhelming due to the sheer number of options available.

In addition to the manual mode, Precision X also includes a linear selection option. However, as with the manual mode, this feature seems to do little more than provide a false sense of security. Clicking on the graph, right-clicking, and even middle-finger clicking all seem to have no effect on the voltage output.

So, how does one undervolt their GPU using Precision X? After some trial and error, it becomes clear that increasing the clock speed results in lower mV per clock. However, this is not as intuitive as it could be, particularly given the lack of a clear mV offset value.

The small size of the GUI elements also makes it difficult to accurately select points on the curve, leading to frustration and confusion. Furthermore, there are only two labeled points on the GHz axis: 1.6 and 2.5. This limited selection makes it even more challenging to achieve a stable overclock or undervolt.

In conclusion, while EVGA's Precision X voltage control software may have evolved with the Pascal generation, it has also become more complicated and less intuitive. The lack of clear labeling, small GUI elements, and confusing manual mode make it difficult for users to get the most out of their GPUs. Only time will tell if Nvidia and its board partners will revisit this approach or find a better way to balance power and performance.

Evga precision x voltage pascal