Skus Ballistix?
Skus Ballistix?
I found some Ballistix on eBay to fix the RAM problems in my 3600X build. When I got it this morning, I noticed a discrepancy. I double- and triple-checked the SKU in the listing (BL16G36C16U4B.M16FE1) before purchasing, using the MPN shown. Instead, I received BL2K16G36C16U4B, which appears on the same listing below. It seems like a possible mix-up, but before I discuss it with the seller, I wanted to verify if these two identifiers could be linked. It doesn’t look like they’re connected.
Same schedule means likely no change, though double-check the burner for ICE since that’s probably where the difference is. If it’s faulty, just toss it in for a 16Gb rev version—it won’t matter much if you don’t care. But a 2666 in 16Gb rev will crush even a 3600 16Gb rev EMI, which is pretty harsh considering how bad 16Gb rev can be for both stealing profiles online and manual access.
I noticed the numbers on the actual DIMMs through the plastic cover of the package and they match. It seems like BL2K16G36C16U4B might actually be two BL16G36C16U4B units combined to form a 32GB kit. However, the board only supports 16GB of this model. It might just be a simple misunderstanding, but it’s good to confirm. I’m curious why a board would accept one stick instead of two, especially since there are two slots available. I’ve been feeling frustrated lately from having to disassemble machines repeatedly just to fix issues that could have been avoided.
Somerandomtechboi seems to be referring to a memory technology milestone achieved by Micron Rev E, reaching 5726Mhz and surpassing Adata by about a hundred megahertz in 2019. It's clear they're emphasizing the significance of this achievement. Generally, Micron produces reliable memory solutions that typically face fewer problems compared to SK Hynix. While occasional issues can occur—such as poor performance or timing errors—these kits usually function adequately at lower speeds like 3200Mhz. Most of their revision boards, whether in revision B or E, can handle around 4000Mhz with minor adjustments.
These Ballistix models came with an ASRock B450M HDV R4.0. Some doubts arise about confirming all 3200 units if you check one at a time. It seems at least three 3200 kits from Patriot are confirmed for my Asus B550-PLUS, whereas a different 3200 Ballistix version I used with matching specs didn’t pass validation. It’s likely they tested this particular kit, not the one I used. There appears to be a mix-up—some were single-rank, others dual-rank, and the B550-PLUS experienced random POST failures after cold starts. RAM tests were normal, but swapping it with another unit didn’t resolve the issue. While the machine ran fine solo and in pairs, replacing it with another unit didn’t help. During repairs, I used a DIMM from the ASRock board, which behaved oddly during POST—showing a repeating hourglass pattern. Adding another DIMM didn’t fix the problem, and I experienced random audio glitches and video interruptions after reinstalling a working one. It seems these kits aren’t approved for the ASRock board either. I haven’t found a 3200 Ballistix listing on any QVL sites for any board. This probably isn’t a coincidence. I’m planning to finish the 3600X build using an ASRock board with Corsair 4000X, possibly swapping it later. I’m aiming for an internal optical drive and paired with my 5900X and Patriot Viper 4 Blackout. @Guest 5150 I’m starting to think assembling today’s machines is like solving a jigsaw puzzle—without the right pieces fitting together, it won’t function properly. I’ve tried two 3200 Ballistix units so far; both were extremely sensitive. Until I checked QVL listings, I didn’t realize that was a thing. It turns out the MSI B450M in my 1700 rig wasn’t validated either. Edited August 12, 2022 by An0maly_76 Updated with more details
It seems the issue is minor—just a 3600X on it, and it should work fine.
Bottom of the barrel crap board, maybe you didn’t purchase a fresh one and ended up scammed by B450 Pro4—it’s actually a better option.
At $75 compared to $165 for a B550 that wasn’t needed, I don’t feel like I was scammed. It’s probably worth swapping it out once we fix both together.