I added fresh RAM with the old ones, but the system is malfunctioning.
I added fresh RAM with the old ones, but the system is malfunctioning.
It could be a faulty stick. I’m aware you ran MemTest. Use the Windows memory diagnostics tool. If any issues are found, it will inform you.
I performed a Windows memory test using the full 48GB of RAM and found no issues.
Likely a faulty RAM module. If your Windows setup is damaged, try using Windows 11 settings, Windows Update, Advanced Options, Recovery, and fix issues via Windows Update. (Once the bad stick is removed) It usually just reinstalls the core Windows files.
You're right to question this. The same model number doesn't guarantee identical RAM. While the version number helps identify the chip and chipset, it's not a universal identifier like a model number. Most stores don't provide this detail, and different suppliers use various systems. Only Corsair employs the version number for this purpose.
Process the RAM and consider reinstalling Windows before using the new memory. Avoid combining different kits, even though it might seem possible, but it's not recommended. Stick to the same exact specifications, although there are instances where identical specs don't guarantee compatibility between manufacturers like Hynix and Samsung. (It should generally work when components are truly identical)
I might bring back the kit and purchase a more affordable or quicker alternative. It will depend on availability and pricing, and if I can't exchange it, I'll just replace the old one.
The model number doesn't indicate the details of the RAM. RAMs with identical frequencies and timings will function together no matter the manufacturer. OEM components vary across vehicles, appliances, and more, but they remain compatible since they meet the same specifications. If matching specs fail... Well, that's a challenge for every RAM producer. They manage it and succeed. Sometimes even with multiple configurations, like three sets or a DDR5 configuration.
It varies based on what you consider important. If everyone uses it the same, it should be fine. But differences exist. I'm happy it functioned for you. We're not claiming it will always work, though. It likely succeeds more often than not, but failures still happen. It's tough to estimate how often it works because we mostly notice when it doesn't. Still, it does occur with DDR5. Fewer generations compared to DDR4 means fewer unusual variations. Syncing the chipset model and manufacturer matters more than matching speeds or timing for reliability. The motherboard will adapt to the slowest component, regardless.
Bjoolz proposes a practical approach for compatibility. Focus on the exact IC or a similar one with comparable traits. The brand and speed ratings don’t guarantee perfect fit, so even identical speed bins like 3200c16 or 3600c18 may yield different ICs such as 3200c16 or 3600c18. For the OEM RAM, specifying a precise revision with a part number ensures matching configurations for multiple sticks or unusual capacities. This method works well for 2, 4, or even 3 sticks, though the example here uses 10GB DDR3 across four sticks at a certain speed. This was meant as a humorous test, not a serious setup. Buying OEM RAM is often used by overclockers to achieve high speeds affordably, as 2800+ DDR3 MHz are relatively inexpensive, especially around $1 each for the sticks mentioned. The ratings are usually ignored since they don’t affect performance much.