Issue with overclocking on the latest build?
Issue with overclocking on the latest build?
I assembled a PC using a Ryzen 7 9700x processor, an ASUS TUF GAMING x870 plus WiFi motherboard, and two 16 GB G.Skill Flare X5 DDR5 RAM modules.
Attempted to configure RAM speed with EXPO (6000 MT/s), but it didn’t work. After resetting the CMOS, I manually set the frequency to 5200 MT/s while keeping other settings at "auto," but it still failed to boot. Resetting the CMOS again brought everything back to normal, and the system started up properly on Windows 11 or Ubuntu.
I was hoping to slightly overclock the RAM, but it didn’t succeed. Anyone have advice or should I keep it as it is? The BIOS is the latest version (April 29, 2025).
If the 1.40v 6000 didn't work, that doesn't imply 5200 at stock 1.10v would either. The setup is designed for 1.40v, so that's the best approach. You might eventually reach your target at a higher commission than what was used at EXPO 28—it's just a process of testing.
If it works, it should come right up. If it is really unstable then it may quickly reboot into defaults for CPU and RAM, much as if you had reset the CMOS except without also resetting other things like CSM or boot order. The problem is when it's barely stable enough to POST but crashes soon after--you could wait forever then as no "training" is going on at all.
It's quicker if you start high with the voltage and gradually go up with the clocks. If it gets unstable you can loosen the timings, or if you reach your target clock, you can work your way down with the voltage afterwards. Memory stability testing takes a lot of time so figure on either not using your PC for awhile, or consider if it may be quicker to exchange the RAM for a set on the motherboard's QVL which at least the motherboard manufacturer has tested and found to work.
These issues can be challenging to resolve without replacement components. They might relate to DRAM, CPU, or motherboard. Regarding the CPU, none of these components seem likely, but possible causes include a memory controller unable to keep up, insufficient mounting pressure, poor contact, or damaged pads. The DRAM itself could also be faulty—something I haven’t experienced before until building my current setup, suggesting it’s a first-time occurrence. The motherboard might have defective slots or socket/trace problems.
It seems the specific part number might be missing from the QVL. Most of the G.Skill 2x16GB 6000 kits shown are XMP, not EXPO, and many are 40CL. There are two Samsung 36CL models (F5-6000J3636F16GX2-TZ5NR and F5-6000J3636F16GX2-FX5) and one Hynix 30CL (F5-6000J3038F16GX2-TZ5NR) available. All are 1.35v. I thought you might have purchased a CL28 kit since those offer the best performance, but they’re 1.40v and not listed here. If a second set on the QVL fails, it could indicate an issue beyond the motherboard—possibly a weak CPU memory controller. The 6000 is ideal, but technically the 5600 is the maximum supported by the CPU; going over it isn’t covered under warranty. You might still have options if nothing above 4800 works.