Intel announced that it has released a new microcode update (0x12B) to prevent serious damage to the 13th and 14th generation Raptor Lake processors. This update aims to prevent the processor from demanding more power than necessary, especially during idle or light operations. Excess voltage can shorten the lifespan of processors, cause permanent damage, and even cause computers to crash.
Intel states that this microcode update sent to motherboard manufacturers may take a few weeks to reach users with BIOS updates. However, users are advised to install existing BIOS updates instead of waiting for the new update. Previously released BIOS updates include two important Intel microcode fixes and can help prevent processor damage by optimizing power settings.
However, if your processor is already experiencing crashing issues, updating the BIOS may not be enough. In this case, the most logical step would be to send your processor directly back to Intel or the system provider you purchased your device from. Intel provides support under the extended warranty it offers specifically for such problems. If they don’t help you, it’s important to report this to Intel.
What is known about other problems with Intel Raptor Lake processors?
The company still hasn’t shared clear information about how many Raptor Lake processors are affected by this and other potential instability issues. At the same time, there was no statement regarding the processor batches affected by the previously reported oxidation issue. Users and experts continue to demand greater transparency on these issues.
At the end of August, the company firmly stated that its Raptor Lake laptop processors were not affected by the voltage issue or other known causes of instability seen in desktop processors. However, some users shared information that Raptor Lake laptop processors also showed similar problems.