Special memory allocated for hardware use
Special memory allocated for hardware use
Hey guys, Long time lurker here, first time poster. For a while now I've had an issue with my RAM where my system hardware reserves anything over 16 GB. I've seen many posts describing similar problems, but none of the solutions presented there worked for me. I have 4 sticks of 8 GB G.Skill RAM from the same batch. I've tested each stick individually and in pairs, and they all work fine. When I insert all 4 sticks however, my computer seems to recognize that I have 32 GB of RAM installed, but it lists 16 GB as hardware reserved. Additionally, when all 4 sticks are inserted I lose the option to overclock them in my BIOS. I've tried: - Virtual memory settings - Maximum memory settings on boot - BIOS update - Driver updates - Checked AMD software settings So far I'm inclined to believe that my GPU is the one reserving the memory (but what do I know ). I've seen a few posts where they suggest changing some GPU settings in the BIOS, but those are not accessible to me. Is there any way to bypass this? Do any of you have any other suggestions? Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thijmen Specs: Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64-bit MSI B450 GAMING PRO CARBON AC AMD Ryzen 5 1600X AMD RX6600XT 8GB G.Skill Ripjaws 4 Series 4 x 8GB
Typically an iGPU uses 1 to 4 GB of system RAM, though with a custom GPU this might not apply. The hardware you’re using seems to be reserved by design, which often points to an issue with the physical RAM, the slots, or the CPU. The BIOS might recognize 32 GB but if there’s a problem it will mark the RAM as unavailable. Remove the RAM, clean the contacts, inspect for damage. Ensure the slots are free of debris and check the CPU for any defects, including pins, dust, or thermal paste issues.
Follow expert suggestions by starting with one stick at a time in its original position. Explore every potential issue to ensure success. Examining the pin configuration for an AM4 connector can reveal ways to work around faulty pins by choosing which RAM slots you connect. Obviously, you can't physically change all connections since you're using all four slots.
Based on my observations, altering the RAM settings occasionally can help if previous fixes fail. You might remove the RAM stick from the third CPU slot, reset CMOS, restart, and verify the Hardware reserved status in Windows. If it appears correct, reinstall the RAM and reset CMOS again.