Clarification on Dual Channel and RAM Stick Inquiry
Clarification on Dual Channel and RAM Stick Inquiry
I was trying to understand dual channel memory and the correct RAM slot placement for my ASRock B660M Steel Legend. The manual seems a bit unclear, especially about the terminology used. I’m not sure if it suggests filling both channels with DDR4 A_2 and B_2 or if there’s a specific order I should follow. I think the word “populated” might be confusing me—it could mean you need to put the sticks in the correct dual channel slots, or it might imply they’re already set up. I want to make sure I’m interpreting it correctly before proceeding.
Additionally, I noticed one RAM stick might have a scratch or dent. It looks small but I’m not sure if it’s a problem. Should I keep using both sticks or replace the damaged one? I’m new to this and don’t want to risk further damage. Also, when I power on the system, a red LED lights up for RAM issues, then turns off after the fan starts. Is this normal behavior, or should I be worried about it?
You're right about the "Populated" term guiding your choices for setup. The little dent didn't seem like a problem at first, but once the PC finishes, a Memtest86 boot from USB will run four passes to check stability. The lights will keep cycling to verify components, and if they stay red, it usually means the issue has cleared—like the cooler starting properly.
Now I've got a new issue cropping up. At first, when I turn on the motherboard the red led turns on for DRAM meaning that there's a problem with the memory (again). However, I've now attempted to boot into the bios and suddenly the red led for DRAM goes away and now there is a red light for VGA and BOOT. It looks like BOOT refers to the M.2 storage according to the manual which you can see in the attached picture. There is another section for the storage right underneath the CPU, though, I'm wondering if I should put it there or just take the storage out and re-seat it back into it's current socket. I've heard the current socket it's sitting in is fine and I believe the socket underneath the CPU is for particular types of NVMe storage that I don't think I have, though, I could be wrong.
I checked your boards manual about the M.2 card, but it wasn’t listed among supported devices. That doesn’t mean it won’t work. From what I understand, the board has three ports, and the one most likely to accept this device is probably the first one. You might need to update the BIOS on the motherboard before it functions. Good news—no storage device is required for POST; just remove the card, apply a BIOS update via USB, and give it another try.