Identifying issues with ASRock Z77 Extreme3 when using more than two RAM sticks.
Identifying issues with ASRock Z77 Extreme3 when using more than two RAM sticks.
I recently purchased this Z77 motherboard for 90 dollars, and the seller allowed me to test it. Everything functioned properly with 16GB DDR3. After installing it into my case, connecting everything, and turning it on, I waited about five seconds. Initially, I thought it was just the first boot with new hardware, but then it shut down. It automatically rebooted, which was normal for most motherboards. Later, it shut down again. I turned off my power supply and checked all cables, RAM sticks, and slots. All RAM sticks worked as expected, and all slots functioned correctly—something I wasn't expecting. I then tried using two RAM sticks in dual-channel mode, which also worked (which is what I'm currently using). Next, I placed the RAM sticks next to each other, which should not be done, and it entered a boot loop. I also attempted to clear CMOS in case some settings from the seller remained, but that didn't help. I'm frustrated because I ended up installing too much RAM and now have 8GB installed, which exceeds what the motherboard supports.
Hi Mate, I assume you've installed the latest stable BIOS (which is v1.5.0), reset it to default, and all of the memory modules are exactly the same part numbers and look the same in terms of number of memory chips on each side? Also, make sure none of the CPU pins are bent or broken in the socket.
Your processor is running at a higher speed than intended. Consider increasing the voltage for the memory controller. You might also attempt standard configurations with XMP enabled.
The BIOS is the most recent update, and it seems fine to reinstall the CPU without adding more thermal paste, especially since you recently purchased a cooler. The memory remains unchanged. Also, @DoctorNick clearing CMOS and resetting OC settings didn’t resolve the issue.
Hey Jacob1005, bent pins seem unlikely but dual-channel mode uses more CPU pins than single-channel. It might be worth looking into. I’d clean the top of the CPU and bottom of the heatsink and apply fresh thermal paste if needed (just my take). Make sure it’s not too little or too much, particularly if the paste is conductive.
Some motherboards tend to be a bit picky with their memory slots—usually this only matters when all four are filled, but it can happen even with just two. If you can start up with each stick separately, it probably needs a bit more power to run everything. I had an ASRock P68 that was very strict about its DIMMs. The solution was to raise the memory voltage slightly. Start by booting with one stick and enter the BIOS. Navigate to the OC Tweaker section, then adjust the voltage settings. Set DRAM voltage to 1.55v or 1.6v (the stock is 1.5v on those Ripjaws, but extra voltage works fine). Save the changes and restart. After a successful reboot, turn off the system and install the remaining DIMMs before powering it back on. If everything works, you should have all four slots running. If you still can't boot with all four, consider increasing the voltage again or adjusting VCCIO/VCCSA one notch higher. Populating all four DIMMs puts extra stress on the memory controller, which can fix the problem. Once they’re all cooperating, lowering the voltage slightly might help with heat, though it’s not necessary for DDR3 modules. The Ripjaws series DDR3 memory has performed well in my experience— I’ve been using 32GB (four 8GB modules) in my Z77 OC Formula for years. It’s overclocked to 2133MHz and set at 1.65v.
I tested it now and it functions properly! Your question about the motherboard compatibility is interesting. It seems the board might be built for older 1.65V components, which could affect performance with 1.5V setups. Could someone help resolve this thread?