Having more RAM sticks tends to increase CPU temperatures. - Prime 95
Having more RAM sticks tends to increase CPU temperatures. - Prime 95
All RAM on a Haswell CPU is boosted to match the manufacturer's specifications, which is why I included this in the overclocking section.
Two queries:
1. Does using fewer RAM modules reduce CPU temperature during stress conditions? [Refer to my tests below]
2. Does decreasing the amount of RAM also help lower CPU temperatures? For instance, comparing 2 sticks of 4GB versus 2 sticks of 8GB.
I recently encountered an issue when trying to install 32GB Corsair Veangance Pro 2400mhz RAM to achieve its rated XMP 2400mhz performance. I resolved it by switching to PNY Anarchy 2666 RAM with wider timings (CL12 vs CL11).
My testing outcomes for the 8GB Corsair modules were as follows: 8GB [1X8GB] and 16GB [2X8GB] remained stable at XMP 2400mhz, but installing 32GB [4X8GB] caused OCCT to fail within 6 seconds, requiring a downclocking to 2200mhz.
I consulted forums for advice on enabling 32GB operation and contacted the motherboard manufacturer. They advised adjusting voltage settings, which I attempted without success.
The manufacturer ASROCK recommended testing each module at 2400mhz. I followed that guidance and observed something notable.
When using Prime Medium Blends with all 8 cores on a single stick [1X8GB], temperatures stayed between 50-60°C.
With two 8GB sticks, temperatures rose into the 70s, peaking at around 80°C, though it never throttled.
This behavior wasn’t seen in forums and may explain why reviews differ for various coolers. It makes me question if my results are universally valid.
Additionally, I wondered whether this cooling pattern applies when using different amounts of lower MB RAM. For example, were the same 4GB modules effective with 8GB RAM?
System Rig
Asrock Fatality Z97x Killer Motherboard
I-7 4790k CPU
Gigabyte Gamer1 GTX 980-TI Video Card
PNY Anarchy CL12 DDR3 2666mhz
EVGA 1000 Watt Power Supply
Enermax Liqmax II 240 Liquid Cooling
Additional sticks increase the load on the MC in the CPU, causing it and the CPU itself to work harder to maintain voltage, which generates more heat. This applies whether you're running high data rates at low CL or tight/low CL settings—higher stress on the MC leads to more heat. It's best to keep the number of sticks minimal while still allowing you to run the widest possible channels. For example, using dual-channel MMO2 sticks is ideal, and only fill all slots when fully utilizing the motherboard.
It seems the IMC might need to exert more effort, which could raise CPU temperatures. What he mentioned is about RAM slots rather than the quantity of RAM. If only half the slots are used, two lack extra voltage, though this likely won’t significantly impact temperatures. I haven’t tried running with more than two RAM sticks before, so I’d recommend removing XMP settings and manually adjusting settings.
My memory is performing exceptionally well with the XMP settings.
Additional sticks increase the load on the MC in the CPU, causing it and the CPU itself to work harder to maintain voltage, which generates more heat. This applies whether you're running high data rates at low CL or tight/low CL settings—greater stress on the MC leads to more heat. It's best to keep the number of sticks minimal while still allowing you to run the widest possible channels. For example, using dual-channel MMO2 sticks is ideal, and only fill all slots when fully utilizing the motherboard.