by Gregorio » Fri Dec 07, 2012 6:28 am
Overclocking is basically boosting the processor to work beyond its published clock frequency. Say you have a processor that works at 2.8GHz (your case). You would go into the BIOS and change parameters that would make it work, for example, up to 3.5GHz.
The thing is, this is not for every processor and also depends on both the processor and the bios letting you change said parameters. The main problem when overclocking is heat - processors get very hot and getting them to run at higher clock frequencies makes them even hotter, so overclocking also requires rethinking yourn colling apparatus - from changing coolers and heatsinks to going liquid-cooled if you' really into it. As I said this depends on the processor and BIOS having features unlocked and available that you can change so that you make it run faster. And, as Fozzer already pointed out, you increase the risk of damaging your hardware.
With the rise of the overclocking phenomena, manufacturers saw an enthusiasts market there so there are processors that come already prepared for that - for example the Core i7 3770K, which comes with the necessary multipliers unlocked. I've seen videos of people running FSX with other "K series" processors from Intel at 4.5GHz!! As always, this is not without the risk of getting hardware damaged.
All things considered, you're better off not overclocking your hardware. Best option is to buy a new set with more up-to-date parts. You should do it only, and I repeat, ONLY if you (1) are an enthusiast of the technique and (2) are aware and accept all the risks involved, including bricking your processor and/or other parts.
Hope this helps!