Is there a need for a RAM upgrade because the existing memory is limiting performance?
Is there a need for a RAM upgrade because the existing memory is limiting performance?
Current Specifications
MOBO: MSI B550-A PRO (MS-7C56)
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
GPU: GeForce RTX 3060 12GB
Memory: Vengeance LPX 4x 8GB DDR4 2133MHz (CMK16GX4M2A2133C13)
(Link)
TDLR beneath the text section, please accept if clarity is lacking.
Background of the situation;
At the beginning of this year, I replaced my CPU and MOBO with a Ryzen 5 5600X and B550-A PRO (MS-7C56). Afterward, I began experiencing frequent freezes or crashes when using Android emulators. I conducted some tests using memtest86 and the Windows built-in tool to verify the RAM. The results indicated a possible memory issue, which resolved once everything was restored.
Following that, I reinstalled Windows because major updates were failing to install, while other updates proceeded normally. However, after a complete reset, issues resurfaced when playing games like TWW 3 and Ghost Recon Breakpoint, with CPU or GPU usage reaching 100% for short periods. To resolve this, I reinstalled Windows again at the start of the month due to another failed update. This forced a full clean installation.
Recently, I started playing Planet Crafter, which ran smoothly until random crashes occurred during save operations—typically lasting about a second before freezing. On simpler planets, the game remained stable. Following Steam discussions on troubleshooting, I considered checking my MOBO and CPU chipset for updates after a full Windows reinstall.
Using ChatGPT to search for available updates and changes, I discovered that enabling XMP in BIOS might have caused performance issues. I attempted to manually adjust the DRAM speed to 3200 MT/s via BIOS settings but encountered failure upon restarting. Further research suggested that my current RAM configuration (Micron) was causing a bottleneck, as DDR4 3200–3600 is recommended for Ryzen 5000 CPUs.
I also found that the RAM sticks were mixed manufacturers: two Micron and two Samsung (same part number), which could explain the instability. The need to upgrade to DDR4 3600 or higher was evident, especially since I rarely upgraded until necessary.
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At that point, I relied on the built-in Windows reset for a clean installation. Earlier this month, I made another bootable USB and installed from it. I checked for BIOS/Chipset updates, but since I updated the chipset through MSI Centre, Windows still handled security updates. There were a few failed attempts, mainly because I misremembered the name of the failed installation and other things didn’t work out.
I’m having trouble locating the current series number, as it would require removing it completely from the case. The power supply is an EVGA 750 B3 80 plus bronze. My cooler is a be quite! Pure Rock 2 black, with three intake fans on the front panel, two intake fans above the CPU, and one intake fan at the back of the case.
Also verify the Motherboard's User Guide/Manual.
Certain motherboards need the first physically installed RAM to go into a particular slot, often DIMM_A2. This rule isn't always obvious and might be hidden in fine print or an asterisk (*) somewhere in a diagram.
Additionally, look at the manufacturer's website for any updates on RAM installation and setup.
Also on the same platform, not sure about the price of the RAM you were seeking, but I’d recommend checking eBay.
For instance
https://ebay.us/m/GE0UjZ
It’s used, though there were a few cheaper kits of other kinds near $100 as well. With eBay you also get buyer protection, so if something doesn’t match the description—like 30 days to resolve—I think they usually side with buyers. Plus, I personally believe RAM is RAM. As long as it meets your specs and has no moving parts, it should work fine. These days, with RAM we can’t be too picky, can we?
Just remember I’m from the USA, so things might vary for you.
Consensus is to maintain buyer satisfaction on eBay.
I frequently acquire second-hand CPUs and RAM kits (primarily DDR3) through eBay. If descriptions are incorrect or components are defective, I receive a prompt refund from the seller when necessary. Please note I only purchase items labeled as "working." I steer clear of terms like "spares or repairs" and rely on positive seller reviews.
When testing used RAM, I perform multiple full runs of MemTest86 and again under XMP settings. Any failures result in a return. Generally, the results are satisfactory.
Acquiring vintage RAM on eBay can be unpredictable, especially concerning ESD protection.
Experienced and knowledgeable sellers typically use original plastic clam shells or grey anti-static bags. Inexperienced sellers often wrap DIMMs in regular plastic bubble wrap, which may pose risks for static-sensitive devices. Static-related issues might not surface immediately.
Should I have paid a minimal sum for old RAM, I won’t return it if it wasn’t properly protected against ESD.
If purchasing large-capacity second-hand DDR4 or DDR5 kits (16GB and above), I’d be more cautious about receiving them unprotected. I’d always be concerned about potential ESD damage after six months or a year, even if they passed MemTest86 upon arrival.
https://electrical-engineering-portal.co...-equipment
Returns on eBay also function smoothly on the opposite side of the Atlantic.