Overclocking a RAM module.
Overclocking a RAM module.
Hi, your system currently holds 32 GB of 3200 MHz DDR4 RAM. You're experiencing issues with overclocking and stability when using multiple sticks. It runs smoothly at stock speeds but caps around 3200 MHz in dual channel mode. Adding more sticks reduced the maximum stable speed to about 2666 MHz without needing a CMOS reset.
Your question is whether the CPU or motherboard is limiting performance. The 9600K rating on your Z390 suggests it supports up to 4000 MHz, but this likely refers to single sticks rather than four. Since you're aiming for 3000–3200 MHz and want four sticks, you may need to check both components.
A possible solution is to upgrade the RAM to faster modules or consider a higher-speed motherboard that supports quad-channel configurations. If the CPU itself is the bottleneck, upgrading to a more powerful processor could help. Let me know if you'd like guidance on testing or parts!
Essentially I purchased a set of two 8GB modules about five months ago and kept using them until I realized I needed an additional 16GB to reach 32GB. The same order was ordered, and I can share the link. In reviews and questions it seems people have merged the two into a single 4GB module running at higher speeds, which suggests it should work. https://www.amazon.com/CORSAIR-Vengeance...141&sr=8-5 My main worry is why I can reach 2666MHz from the original 2133MHz with all four sticks, but when using two in dual channel I hit 3200MHz without any problems. I’m not sure if it’s due to the CPU or the motherboard.
It remains a dual channel setup with four DIMMs at 9600K. You’re effectively using two DIMMs per channel, which may point to a RAM compatibility issue. Each memory IC needs specific training parameters, and while performance can often be acceptable at lower speeds like 3200MHz, having two chips that demand vastly different settings—such as Samsung C die versus Hynix DJR—could be the problem. For mid-range speeds like 3200MHz CL16, the chip you receive will depend on manufacturing costs and available options. Over time, prices fluctuate; you might see cheaper variants like Samsung B die, then Micron Rev. E or Hynix CJR. The advantage here is that Corsair DIMMs include a version number indicating the exact IC used. Remove all RAM and check the printed code. Consistent numbers suggest a hardware fault, while mixed versions (e.g., v5.33 vs v3.32) likely indicate a configuration or compatibility problem.
The Samsung C die sometimes faces its own compatibility challenges. This could be the root cause. You might want to adjust the timing and DRAM voltage manually to see if it improves performance—sometimes this helps train the system. Additionally, tweaking memory controller voltages (VCCSA and VCCIO) to around 1.4V or lower can work, though benefits are minimal above 1.35V. Generally, you shouldn’t need to change these settings to run at 3200MHz.
It's really terrible it even dislikes itself. That's just sad. This place is awful, you should just discard it and get a 2x16 setup for better convenience.
Everything seems like junk to you, or too expensive... You might want to try a different pastime if you feel that way about all the equipment. This section is confusing and unclear.