Can't exceed 2133MHz for RAM on the MSI Z170A Gaming M5 board
Can't exceed 2133MHz for RAM on the MSI Z170A Gaming M5 board
I've been trying to raise my RAM clock speeds above 2133 MHz and am having no luck with it. Here is what I'm running:
Mobo
: MSI Z170A Gaming M5
CPU
: i7 6700k
RAM
: 32GB (2x16) G.Skill Ripsaw V Series DDR4 3200
I've tried simply turning on XMP in the BIOS, but reboot to a memory error. I then tried using the "Memory Test It!" function and tried setting it to anything above 2133 MHz and receive the same error. Is there any way I can manually tune the timings on the RAM (not that advanced with this stuff), or may my RAM not be compatible with this board? The specs for the mobo listed DDR4-3200 as compatible, so I (as a novice) assumed these sticks of RAM would work.
Thanks,
Matt
Slots 2 and 4. I attempted to use only one stick in slot 2, but received a message about a changed memory setup and instructed to press F2 or similar to enter the BIOS. The USB keyboard connected to a 2.0 port wasn't powered on, preventing further testing.
I purchased the mobo in 2016 and it's been used in several projects. I haven't touched the BIOS and was thinking about updating it, but I don't want to cause permanent issues if I'm not sure. Perhaps I should give it a try.
It's not that intimidating. The flash utility in the bios will check the file first before moving forward. Just ensure the bios file is on a fat32 formatted USB stick, unzipped (if needed), without any folders. The main concern is power loss during the process. Flashing usually takes around a minute.
Thanks for the advice. I updated my bios to the latest firmware. Turning on XMP didn't work, so I tried the "memory try it!" preset profiles again. I wasn't able to get my computer to boot with any profile set between 3066-3200MHz (my RAM's advertised speed), but I was able to get it to work with a 3,000 MHz preset. I ran MemTest64 on it for a few loops, and it was stable.
I don't know if I would have better results in getting closer, or even exceeding 3200 MHz by manually setting the timings myself, but that would likely require more research. I couldn't actually find my setup on G.Skill's RAM configurator website for 32GB (2x16), but see the exact model/timings listed for 8 and 16 GB configurations, which leads me to believe my RAM isn't readily compatible anyways.
I'll take the 3k MHz for now, as I probably won't even tell a difference anyways.
Thanks!
Use CPUz under SPD tab to determine timings for XMP 3200 profile. In bios, if you attempt manual settings, modify the primary timings to match those values. Another method to verify timing details is after applying XMP; examine the timings page to identify the settings and locations for primary timings, then revert to manual and update accordingly. Try setting command rate to 2T, as this information should appear near the timings section, possibly slightly lower in the list. Adjust Dram volt to 1.35v.
Initially, what model is your RAM? It’s a good idea to refer to the advice below if you need a thorough overview. This resource has been extremely helpful for my understanding of RAM overclocking.
In terms of updating the BIOS, it’s quite straightforward—just use a fat32 flash drive with less than 64GB. Avoid using Memory cards; they often fail. Be aware that when flashing, especially with multiple drives or SSDs, you might need to restart BIOS and select your storage device again.
Next, identify the specific die. If the guide lacks guidance on correct voltages for DRAM, VCCSA, and VCCIO, research those values and proceed accordingly. Try following the overclocking steps, but if timing doesn’t match, consider slightly reducing them. Also, note that the author of the guide appears knowledgeable, though he didn’t endorse memtest64—opt for a simpler tool like MemTest86 instead.
Please see the recommended Karhu RAM Test version; I purchased it for 9.99 Euro (free version available but requires multiple file copies due to size limits). It reliably checks RAM with 98% accuracy in about 30 minutes. This claim comes from a Finnish developer who wanted more precise testing after long, unreliable assessments.
Links:
https://hcidesign.com/memtest/download.html
https://github.com/integralfx/MemTestHel...aster/DDR4 OC Guide.md#miscellaneous-tips
Here is a list of the RAM P/Ns for better evaluation. The kit you possess should appear on the MB QVL, not on a configurator, to confirm they have been tested by the MB Manufacturer. New RAM models are introduced approximately every month, making an update to Bios crucial to guarantee compatibility with your system. Additional resources such as thyphoon and DRAM calculators can be helpful, particularly for challenging RAM timings, especially when the RAM is OC and lacks preset XMP settings.