Identifying issues: CPU, memory, MOBO problems or simple bad luck?
Identifying issues: CPU, memory, MOBO problems or simple bad luck?
I'm feeling overwhelmed by the constant need to fix my own hardware. I want to involve others in this process! About three years ago, I assembled two very similar setups: an AMD Ryzen 9 3950x motherboard paired with an MSI X570 MEG ACE, a 4x16GB G.Skill Trident Z Neo 3600 CL16 (b-die), A-XMP-1, and a 2TB Samsung 980 Pro SSD. The main differences were the GPUs (one had a single 2080, the other two combined 1080 Ti), the power supply unit, Corsair HX1000 and HX1200 drives, plus various cooling solutions. One was for general use, the other for video rendering.
In recent years, I've replaced RAM on my primary system twice due to suspected failures, eventually settling on a 2x32GB configuration. Recently, I experienced several issues—BSODs, lock-ups, random restarts, error codes 41, and IRQ_LESS_THAN_EQUAL messages. Memory tests quickly revealed hardware faults or crashes, even when A-XMP was off.
My investigation focused on the rendering system where RAM passed all checks. After swapping components, I still faced memory errors. I ran Memtest86 last week and saw 650+ failures across multiple tests. I’m now testing without A-XMP to see if stability improves.
The concern is growing: I suspect either faulty RAM, a failing PSU, or a combination of both. The motherboard also shows signs of wear (missing USB ports, dead M.2 drives). I’m worried about the PSU possibly being the culprit.
I’ve started testing the old 4x16GB CL16 kit I replaced earlier with the rendering system. It passed all tests so far. I plan to install the current RAM in the render setup and see if the problem persists.
This situation is confusing—my only original parts now are the GPU, CPU, and SSD. Yet, my RAM keeps acting up. I’ve checked for power management issues, but nothing definitive. I’m hoping to find a cost-effective solution that lets me keep working on videos. If anyone has advice, tips, or overlooked steps, I’d really appreciate it!
I checked the pins during the motherboard swap. All appear aligned properly. Even though the CPU arrived with the EKWB module during disassembly, I experienced a heart attack-like reaction when it came out. Others have reported memory problems and instability with this chip, but these issues usually appeared shortly after installation. Could I have simply been fortunate enough for them to remain stable until the board aged? I haven’t altered the PBO settings or performed downclocking. I run the CPU stock via BIOS, though XMP is enabled—its impact is clear. I’ll try it if other tests don’t confirm anything. Honestly, I haven’t adjusted manual timings or voltages since my Core2 Quad era. Given my tech anxiety, stability seemed safer than risking overclocking. Plus, I’m questioning whether a 5950x with matched RAM would work best for my streaming PC, rendering system, or gaming rig, or if sticking with the 3950x until next year’s upgrade makes more sense.
It's similar to riding a bike. If you choose that path, ensure the RAM matches the motherboard's specifications. For Asus users, they provide a guide or options. G.Skill also maintains their own compatibility list.
Haha! A bike sounds like it’s a good idea—most bikes I’ve had came with loose bolts, so riding around is manageable. But once you hit the off-road, the wheels fall off and you’re stuck on your back, wishing the bleeding would stop. I’m planning a lot of research before tackling the 5950X. It’s started to feel natural now, since I’m tired of getting caught in trouble.
I recently started working with AM4 and had some challenges before. I’ve tried various frustration boxes, but they weren’t very helpful. Looking at the QVL from Asus and G.Skill has been smooth for me. My 5900X is performing well, and I boosted it to 5150. The 5600X is also boosting to 4850, making daily use faster. X3D supports both CPUs and offers good performance without needing heavy cooling, so a semi-passive setup works just fine for gaming.