Intel has disabled the ability to bypass the Digital Linear Voltage Regulator (DLVR) functionality on its Z890 BIOS through Power Gate Mode, limiting the feature to Extreme Overclocking (OC) profiles only. This change, introduced with the latest microcode update (version 0x112), prevents users from disabling DLVR unless using advanced cooling setups like liquid nitrogen.

Key Highlights:

• What is DLVR?
  DLVR regulates voltage for individual CPU cores and Efficient Core Clusters, reducing power consumption during partial core usage, such as in gaming. However, under full CPU load, it may lead to inefficiencies, wasting up to 80–90W on models like the Core Ultra 9 285K.

• Why the Change?
  Intel stated that the update was made to avoid accidental misuse of the Power Gate Mode, ensuring it is only applied in controlled, extreme overclocking environments.

• Impact on Users:

  • For overclockers, the change is largely inconsequential since Extreme OC profiles remain available.
  • For enthusiasts, the inability to disable DLVR in standard configurations could lead to frustration, particularly for those seeking to maximize CPU performance without exotic cooling.

The move has sparked some skepticism due to its timing post-product reviews, but it is unlikely to affect the majority of Intel users who stick to default configurations.