The Sabertooth P67 & i5 2500k experienced a loss in the RAM channel.
The Sabertooth P67 & i5 2500k experienced a loss in the RAM channel.
Hi Everyone,
I’m new here and already experienced with overclocking, but I’m seeking a little guidance to hopefully get my setup back on track.
I own a Sabertooth P67 with a stock clock speed of 2500k. It’s equipped with a 4x2gb F3-12800CL7-4GBRM RAM (listed on the QVL site as two pairs of 4gb). This is my first time using a ROG board, so I was experimenting with the OC tuner in the BIOS—unaware it would immediately jump into auto overclocking.
After a hard reset using the RTCLK jumper, I lost two DIMMS and one channel. Here are some observations:
- I’m running Windows 7 64-bit.
- The boot.ini file is fine.
- All 8GB of RAM were functioning during POST, BIOS setup, and Windows before this issue.
- Earlier, the 8GB sticks worked in POST/BIOS/Windows.
I spent a few hours last night rearranging all four DIMMS in various combinations across both channels, rebooting each time. The BIOS lists every stick under Advanced > Tool > SPD, but on the main screen it only shows 4096MB. Windows also displays only 4GB. RAM has been running at 1333MHz consistently. I attempted to boot with an XMP profile of 1600MHz @1.6v, but it failed to start despite correct timings.
I photographed the socket without the CPU, but couldn’t find any visible dead pins. I cleaned the CPU base with isopropyl alcohol and a microfiber cloth before attempting a clean install.
I haven’t run MemTest yet—this should be my next step. The board was purchased in BIOS 2001, updated to version 3603 (functioned for weeks), then downgraded to 3303 and back to 3603 last night without success. The cooling system uses an NH-C13 downdraft cooler; I tried slightly reducing its airflow on the mounting bracket, but it didn’t help.
I’m starting to suspect the IMC might be damaged on the i5—my guess is the motherboard is fine if the BIOS still recognizes all RAM slots, possibly due to some loose pins. I didn’t physically remove any pins with air; none of the slots are dead and the board always boots with both DIMMS in. I also ran Prime95 with all four sticks active last night, and CPU-Z correctly displayed the full 8GB.
As I mentioned, I’m comfortable with BIOS and settings, so feel free to share any tips or adjustments you’ve made.
I’m okay with having only two DIMM slots now. If possible, I can sell all four RAM sticks (if still functional) and buy one or two 8GB modules—this would be ideal. Just want to understand what caused the problem!
Thanks,
Jon.
For anyone who has come across this thread, my approach was to swap out the BIOS chip since it was faulty.
Re-flashing the old chip didn't resolve the issue because the replacement chip couldn't transmit the required ME data packet.
Now I have full access to all turbo and overclocking options on the motherboard through the BIOS, and I can use all four RAM slots again.
Hope this helps,
Jon.
I'm going to examine the socket more closely. I noticed the photo isn't ideal because the light is positioned incorrectly for pin reflections. I'll also place a can of compressed air on it to check if any hidden particles move. Time to use the magnifying glass!
For anyone who has encountered this thread, my approach was to swap out the BIOS chip since it was faulty.
Reflashing the old chip didn't resolve the issue because the physical chip couldn't transmit the replacement ME data packet.
Now I have full access to all turbo and overclocking options on the motherboard through the BIOS, and I can use all four RAM slots again.
Hope this helps,
Jon.