Attempting to increase RAM speed
Attempting to increase RAM speed
GPU: GTX 1070 SC with Kboost activated
CPU: I7 4790K running at 4.5 Ghz
RAM: 16 GB DDR3 at 1600 MHZ, RIPJAW dual stick
Mobo: Gigabyte Z97X-SLI
Attempting to activate XMP on the motherboard repeatedly, but each time I restart the PC it causes bad RAM codes. Recently replaced the RAM and it works at 1333MHZ, though I aimed to maximize performance. It’s unclear if voltage levels are correct or if manual tuning is necessary. Any suggestions would be helpful.
That was my initial idea as well. Take out the CMOS battery and let it sit for a few minutes, then put it back in. After that, connect the power to the PSU again and make sure XMP is enabled; the factory setting should display 1600MHz speed. Of course, this assumes the G.SKILL memory kit is present on the Gigabyte motherboard's memory QVL. If not, it doesn't necessarily mean it won't work—it just means it wasn't verified by GB to meet those specifications, though I haven't experienced any issues with G.SKILL memory in my experience.
That was my initial idea as well. Take out the CMOS battery and let it sit for a few minutes, then put it back in and restore power to the PSU. Activating XMP should display the original 1600MHz speed. Assuming the G.SKILL memory kit is present on that Gigabyte's motherboard memory slot. If not, it doesn't necessarily mean it won't work—it just indicates it wasn't verified by GB for that specific configuration. I've never experienced a G.SKILL memory issue even without a QVL, though I've mostly used ASUS motherboards.
It wasn't obvious what you were trying to do, so you swapped in the same faulty kit. It's very uncommon for G.SKILL memory to arrive with issues since they verify their kits before shipping and test them on the motherboard's QVL. For your photo, I think it's the Gigabyte tuning software you installed, not the UEFI BIOS at startup (typically accessed via DEL or F2). Check your manual starting on page 41 (https://download1.gigabyte.com/File...v1...69e4bdfa2b)) and give it a try. I haven't relied on ASUS's aftermarket tuning software beyond the built-in UEFI BIOS settings before.
over 1333 is technically overclocked and requires more voltage. This is usually achieved by choosing an XMP profile tailored for your specific RAM. When operating, open CPU-Z and check the memory section to verify the current settings. Examine the speed tab as well. If nothing appears, select the next available slot. It should display the compatible XMP profiles. You can then apply those specifications directly when configuring the RAM.
Don't stress about G-skill and QVL. QVL comes from various suppliers and has been evaluated by the board vendor, offering a limited selection. G-skill tests all their RAM across all mobos from different vendors. G-Skills QVL is extensive, which explains the range of models designed for AMD, Intel, and general use. Usually, issues with G-skill RAM stem from bios updates released long after the RAM was originally tested. Your gear is sufficiently old that any such incompatibilities have already been identified, resolved, and now only require a bios update to apply the fixes.
After checking with CPU-Z, it seems the BIOS never got updated. Regarding XMP, I plan to refresh the BIOS and try enabling it again after a reset. Should I just set XMP and leave everything else alone, or is there a better method? I'm not very experienced with RAM overclocking.