RAM Speed Issue
RAM Speed Issue
Hello everyone, just a quick note before I proceed. These are the current specs of my PC:
Tech Details – My PC Part List:
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 1600 (14nm) 3.2 GHz, 6 cores
- Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-AX370-Gaming K5 ATX AM4
- RAM: Two Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB modules, 8GB each at 3000MHz CL15
- Storage: ADATA XPG SX8200 Pro 2TB M.2-2280 NVMe
- Graphics: EVGA GeForce GTX 1080 8GB SC2
- Case: Fractal Design Focus G ATX mid-tower
- Power Supply: EVGA SuperNOVA G2 650W, 80+ Gold
- Cooling: Corsair AF140 67.8CFM 140mm
- Operating System: Custom Windows 10
Regarding the RAM, I’ve been trying to fix a problem that’s been bothering me for some time—need better performance for gaming and editing. My setup currently has two 16GB sticks at 3000MHz each, totaling about 32GB. The second stick was bought a couple of years ago, but I haven’t checked its speed since.
According to HWInfo64, my RAM is running at roughly 1,066MHz per stick. It looks like this number hasn’t changed much in Windows 10 Task Manager under Performance. In the Memory section, it shows “Hardware reserved: 0 MB,” which doesn’t display the actual speed.
I’m planning to verify by checking the part numbers on PCPartPicker and GIGABYTE’s PDFs to confirm compatibility. If everything matches, I should be able to resolve the issue. Thanks for your help!
In HWinfo the display will show the memory as a genuine MHz rate; in reality the memory operates at MT/s, which for your RAM is 3000 MT/s. It’s unlikely you’re running at the full speed because XMP configuration isn’t enabled in the BIOS—this would cause HWinfo to report 1500MHz or 3000MT/s instead of the actual rated speed.
I'm going to be straightforward—there’s no way I’m sure you’re asking about the R5 1600’s clock speed. That number doesn’t match what I see in my BIOS settings. Also, it doesn’t seem connected to the RAM discussion in your post. Could you clarify what you mean by “R5 1600”? Are you referring to a specific model or setting? Thanks for explaining! @ddennis002
Try turning off XMP save and reboot, then restart and re-enable XMP. Check the Advanced Timing Control settings to confirm gear down mode is off. Because your memory uses odd timing numbers, enabling gear down could cause problems.
I just reviewed the BIOS again after seeing your comment. The "Gear Down Mode" in the Advanced Timing Control section appears grayed out, preventing changes even when you click it with your cursor. This setting is set to Auto, as shown in the image below. It's a spoiler.
It seems the feature is currently inactive due to settings or restrictions. Because timing values are odd, the board probably blocks access automatically. Disabling and then reactivating XMP may cause the system to power down several times before starting normally.
The Ryzen 1600 processor isn't suited for running four Corsair LPX SK Hynix modules at 3000mhz with XMP ratings. The memory controller simply can't handle it, no matter how hard you try.
I understand, that’s a bit overwhelming. The main concern is your uncertainty about compatibility. Could you clarify how you find out if a CPU can handle a certain configuration? For example, what tools or methods do you use to check performance limits? Also, when purchasing components, how can you ensure you’re aware of the capabilities of the parts you buy? Your situation highlights the importance of proper research before making decisions.