4 RAM STICKS
4 RAM STICKS
Hello, thank you for your message. I understand your concerns about RAM usage and performance. It seems you're looking to upgrade your system while managing memory demands during ML tasks. You mentioned needing more RAM due to high activity usage and the risk of exceeding available resources. Regarding your question about purchasing 2x8GB or 2x16GB sticks, it's important to consider compatibility with your current BIOS settings. Generally, using higher-speed sticks may require adjustments in BIOS configuration to ensure stability. It’s advisable to check your motherboard documentation or consult a specialist before making changes.
Occasionally success is limited. Even with a Ryzen 5000 it can still fail. The 7000 lineup brings up problems, so you need to cut clock speeds significantly.
For machine learning you’d need a 3200MHz 64GB (four 16GB modules) RAM package. Assuming your system uses DDR4 and can handle 3200MHz, and that the motherboard supports those speeds, this configuration would work. If you have a 4x16 64GB kit, it’s a solid choice. If you’re not concerned about the appearance, you might find a more affordable option **check my message below**.
Maybe? Mixing RAM is not an exact science, there's a lot of factors involved, including luck. The only real way to guarantee that it will work would be to have the exact same RAM with the same PCB, SPD programming, and memory IC, which even buying the same exact model number doesn't guarantee that those will be the same. In my experience, the odds with any two sticks at the 3200 CL16/3600 CL18 speed bin are ~85% that it will just work at XMP speeds, 10% that it'll function but XMP doesn't work, and 5% that it won't work no matter what you do. If it's an option to just replace your current RAM with a 2x32GB kit instead, do it, though if it's significantly cheaper to just add more RAM just make sure to buy it from a place with a good return policy.
Considering a 2x32GB setup as suggested by @RONOTHAN. It seems likely to be a more suitable option than the 4x16 configuration I previously discussed.
I definitely avoid mixing kits of RAM, especially DDR4 which can be quite finicky. Even two identical kits might cause issues and instability. The ideal approach when purchasing RAM for a new setup or upgrading is to select the exact size and speed you need. I also don’t suggest opting for a quad module kit; a dual module kit is the better choice. For machine learning tasks, a minimum of 32GB (two 16GB modules) at 3200mhz is recommended. If you aim for optimal performance, a 64GB (two 32GB modules) kit at 3200mhz or higher would be ideal.
I'm focusing on different aspects of your setup. The OEM green PCBs perform perfectly, matching the exact model and ICS. Choosing a substandard 6x4 dual rank board was a mistake—I could have used a quad rank 6x4 Samsung D die instead. Since I need to run at around 1900, I suspect the issue might be with non-OEM RAMs, as OEM parts seem consistent for that model. I bought six identical sticks with the same ICS and they all functioned well at that voltage. The five PSC sticks I have also worked in a 4 stick configuration past 2200, but I’m getting inconsistent boards now. Upgrading RAM should be straightforward if you match the IMC with the burner and use a green PCB with the correct IC. Binning isn’t reliable here; just ensure compatibility by checking the exact IMC and ICS before adding more sticks.
I noticed your point about mixing identical kits. Did you mean to ask if I’m interpreting the advice correctly?
The issue with exact kits is that ICs won't match unless you're using OEM bare PCBs where the same IC is specified (like HMA82G6 DJR8N). Generic plastic heatspreaders often differ even if the RAM sticks share the same model and heat spreader. Or are you talking about kits such as 2x8 or 4x8 that ensure matching ICs?
I completely don't grasp what you mean. What you're referring to with exact kits is purchasing a set that matches the specified capacity and performance exactly—like 2x16GB, 2x8GB, etc.—without mixing different sizes or speeds. I'm not doing any mix matching, even for identical kits, because of the issues you mentioned.