Can't get RAM to run at expected speeds
Can't get RAM to run at expected speeds
Zen 2 (3000 series or 4000G series) performs well at 3200MHz, though it might be stressed if the IMC is overloaded. To prevent this, using just two sticks is recommended. If DOCP/XMP is active and more than two sticks are used, it won’t work. When two sticks fail to boot at the target speed, lowering the frequency—like from 3200MHz to 3000MHz—can still deliver similar performance in practice. For instance, a CL16 might drop to CL15, but the actual speed remains comparable and you won’t notice a significant loss (200MHz x2 bandwidth isn’t a major issue).
This could be the real issue. It's not only about the frequency. All the settings need to match correctly. XMP/DOCP are specific profiles for RAM that cover both frequency and timing details. Avoid setting the MHz manually—just enable DOCP and allow it to adjust automatically.
I activated DOCP and set it to autoset at 3600 with proper timings. The system booted repeatedly, so I gradually reduced the speed until it started booting normally at 3200. While running tests with Prime95, my CPU began getting very hot, eventually triggering aggressive thermal throttling. I switched DOCP off and set RAM to 3000MHz, which stabilized the test—CPU stayed at full load across all 32 threads with a peak temperature of 50°C. Does DOCP influence this outcome? I don’t have much time left to pinpoint the exact cause.
QVL indicates they haven’t verified it functions. Ram on Ryzen is surprisingly simple. I’ve faced no issues with random RAM in Ryzen setups not meeting QVL, especially on 3200+ speeds using 2000 chips on B450 boards with limited memory controllers.
The processor is also boosted to 3600 MHz, though CL18 indicates the design wasn't built for that frequency. The timing flexibility allows it to reach that speed, but the manufacturer adjusted the settings to achieve it. If your model was originally rated at CL16-16-16 or below, you should be okay.