Check if your H110 motherboard supports DDR3.
Check if your H110 motherboard supports DDR3.
Considering the price of the motherboard, you're wondering if it actually supports DDR3 RAM. It's possible it's labeled as DDR3 but uses a different standard like DDR3L. You should check the specifications carefully and confirm compatibility before purchasing.
DDR3L refers to a version of DDR3 with reduced voltage (1.35V instead of 1.5V). It sparked some discussion around the Skylake era regarding board compatibility for DDR3 (non-L). Intel denied it, while some motherboard makers agreed. I’d recommend opting for a DDR4-compatible board instead.
They refuse to accept 1.5v due to limitations in the CPU's memory controller, which can only manage voltages above 0.15v above a reference point—typically the DDR4 standard of 1.2v. Consequently, these CPUs support DDR4 models from 1.2v to 1.35v, while DDR3L extends up to 1.35v. Exceeding these limits can degrade the memory controller over time, potentially leading to reduced performance or even CPU failure. This design constraint also explains why DDR3 modules max out at 1.65v, a standard that became common. Intel processors are restricted to 1.65v or less, whereas AMD could handle higher voltages but didn’t need to. You can purchase DDR4 boards on eBay, such as the Asus H110M-A motherboard, and compatible HP ProDesk boards that support multiple memory sticks. For power supply compatibility, an adapter cable is necessary for regular supplies with these boards.
The CPU is officially compatible with DDR3L, but if the motherboard can supply the higher voltage needed for RAM, it should work fine. Voltage for RAM is different from CPU/IMC-related voltages like VCCIO and VCCSA. Most overclockers agree that raising RAM voltage doesn’t harm the CPU’s lifespan, though I’m not very familiar with this topic. Do you already have DDR3 ready for reuse? If not, what’s the price difference between a DDR4 motherboard and RAM?
I mentioned it might be similar to the motherboards I linked. Perhaps reach out to the seller.