Potential Ram problems with the B450 Tomahawk MAX
Potential Ram problems with the B450 Tomahawk MAX
My configuration includes an MSI B450 Tomahawk MAX with a Ryzen 5 3600XT, 4x16GB CMK32GX4M2D3600C18. I recently added two extra 16GB RAM sticks, which helped improve performance while playing Cities Skylines with many mods and assets installed. Previously, I was using 53GB of RAM, and loading times were slow at 12 minutes and 30 seconds. After upgrading to the new 32GB setup, loading time dropped to about 9 minutes and 30 seconds. I noticed some blue screens and crashes before, but after disabling XMP, the system ran smoothly at 2333MHz instead of the expected 3600MHz. It seems the motherboard supports 3600MHz with two sticks, but I’m unsure if four sticks would work better. Should I consider replacing the new RAM or try adjusting settings to optimize performance?
Based on my experience with The B450 Tom Max, I understand that changing memory without fully resetting the BIOS often causes strange behavior and errors. Later BIOS updates helped, but it was still a bit unpredictable with memory handling. Adding more of the same memory doesn’t always guarantee smooth performance. The model number doesn’t ensure identical hardware (different chip manufacturers, etc.). It’s best to purchase matching sets in the required quantity since they’re tested together. If resetting fails, try running them at 3200/3400 and observe the results. (At 1.35v) Many factors from the controller to the chip can affect compatibility, making it hard to get reliable outcomes unless they work well together.
The original value stands at 3.43 while the updated version is 4.33
Your issue is resolved by switching to a new setup. Sell the current one and purchase a proper 2x32 kit now. They’re around $120 today.
Below you'll find the same information presented in a different way.
I've invested considerable effort in this task, yet it remains difficult.
The components differ significantly despite being the same model. Micron MIC (3.43) and Samsung (4.33) won’t function well together. Please return the kit. If you need 64GB, consider 2x32GB.
I adjusted them to 3400Mhz. So far there have been no problems. Possibly the motherboard isn't up to 3600, or maybe some sticks are bad even if tests don't show it. Still, 3400 is better than the usual 2333...
It seems there may be discrepancies in the memory ICs between the two kits or issues with the daisy chain on that board not supporting quad rank at those speeds. Consider returning the current components and purchasing two 2x16 kits, which are known to be compatible. Also, be ready to adjust the motherboard settings if the new kits are dual-rank, as lower-end boards struggle with stable quad rank support due to less robust memory designs.