Issue with Ram slots not functioning properly.
Issue with Ram slots not functioning properly.
You should not assume any RAM module is completely working just because the computer boots up and Windows loads. Improper handling of RAM at any moment without following proper anti-static measures (such as wearing a wrist strap) can occasionally cause hidden ESD damage. The only definitive way to confirm is to perform a thorough test like MemTest86. Even then, if your CPU or motherboard has been damaged, you cannot be sure whether the RAM is faulty until you verify it on another system.
I received a collection of outdated DIMMs from old office PCs and servers. Out of 80 units, 5 failed testing with MemTest86. Except for one defective unit, all others successfully booted into Windows without any clear signs of failure. That’s a risky situation! I’ve encountered similar issues with older AMD CPUs that had pins at the bottom. These pins often bent, requiring careful straightening.
Are you certain none of the fine spring contacts in the CPU socket are slightly bent? Examine them closely using a magnifying glass or take photos from various angles with your phone. A single bent contact on either memory channel can prevent the corresponding DIMM slot from functioning. This is normal when XMP speed surpasses what your CPU or motherboard can handle. It’s best to switch XMP off and run the system normally.
The Ryzen 5 3600 supports DDR4-3200. Your RAM is rated at 3600MT/s, which might be too fast for your setup if XMP is enabled. You could manually adjust the speed to 3200MT/s.
https://www.cpu-world.com/CPUs/Zen/AMD-Ryzen 5 3600.html
Integrated components / parts
Memory controller
Memory channels (total): 2
Supported memory: DDR4-3200
Just because your motherboard supports DDR4-3600 doesn’t guarantee your CPU will operate at that speed. Your motherboard’s manual suggests placing RAM in slots A2 and B2 for optimal "Dual Channel" performance. If both DIMMs are in Channel A (A1 and A2), you’ll experience slower "Single Channel" operation. Some boards are sensitive to DIMM positioning. If a DIMM isn’t in slot A2 (not A1, B1 or B2), the system may fail to start.
If slots B1 and B2 aren’t working, it’s likely due to bent pins in the CPU socket, a faulty CPU, or an incompatible motherboard.
I tried A1 and B1 together but it didn't work with both RAM sticks. A1 and A1 worked for a short time then stopped. The stick that was working on all slots functioned properly and was recognized by the CPU. I have a new Vengeance 8GB stick coming next week, so I'll attempt dual channel again.
I'll run memtest to check for memory problems. I'm aware I can't start at all with the other stick. The main stick I was using at A1 is now in A2, and the system has been running fairly well since then, though I've experienced crashes from high RAM usage once. Besides that, I have another stick with the same brand and speed coming tomorrow to try dual-channel testing. I've also confirmed I can boot with good RAM in any slot now, so I'll run memtest later tonight.
ram must be used in a2/b2 only. you should use either a kit of 2 or a kit of 4. avoid mixing rams, even if they come from the same vendor—they may not be from the same batch and msi and ryzen can behave unpredictably with memory. the ryan zen 5 3600 will work with 3200 memory speed, up to a maximum of 3466. according to the support pages for memory 3000 series, performance reaches 3466 at that point, based on testing. at least for this board. i would suggest sticking to 3466 and checking if it functions properly.