Tips for improving RAM speed?
Tips for improving RAM speed?
Hello
I own this particular RAM (Patriot Viper 4 Blackout Series DDR4 16GB (2 x 8GB) 3200MHz Kit)... for the Ryzen 5 3600 I’m just starting to explore overclocking... (upgrading my PC after an 8-year-old i5 3470)
The motherboard will be ASRock B550M-HDV.
I’ve been watching videos comparing timings of similar RAMs, so I did the same.
Specs:
3200MHz
3600MHz
4000MHz
Now I see:
- 3200: Base Frequency: PC4-21300 (2666MHz)
• Base Timings: 19-19-19-43
• Tested Frequency: PC4-25600 (3200MHz)
• Tested Timings: 16-20-20-40
• Voltage for Profile 1: 1.35V
3600: Base Frequency: PC4-17000 (2133MHz)
• Base Timings: 15-15-15-36
• Tested Frequency Profile 1: PC4-28800 (3600MHz)
• Tested Timings: 17-19-19-39
• Voltage for Profile 1: 1.35V
4000: Base Frequency: PC4-17000 (2133MHz)
• Base Timings: 15-15-15-36
• Tested Frequency Profile 1: PC4-32000 (4000MHz)
• Tested Timings: 19-21-21-41
• Voltage for Profile 1: 1.35V
What advice would you give me?
If base timing changes at higher frequencies, how should I adjust the settings to reach even higher clocks like 3866MHz?
Should I try it myself or is it better not to do anything... since my current setup only has an RX580 8GB and performance won’t improve much?
Also... does this motherboard support these RAMs? :/
😀
Compatibility
Ram chips are categorized. Superior chips fit faster RAM and can fetch higher prices. You might win sometimes, but don’t rely on it. For quicker performance, consider purchasing a faster kit upfront. Ryzen’s efficiency depends on RAM speed—around 3600 is ideal. Ryzen has strict requirements for RAM compatibility. Check the RAM quality list for your motherboard, as lists vary by processor model. Choose an exact kit that matches your system. Or visit a RAM vendor’s site and use their selection tool; buying a fully supported kit ensures reliability.
Ram chips are categorized. Superior chips fit faster RAM and can fetch higher prices. You might win sometimes, but don’t rely on it. For quicker RAM, consider purchasing a faster kit upfront. Ryzen’s performance depends on RAM speed—around 3600 is ideal. Ryzen has strict compatibility rules for RAM. Check the RAM quality list for your motherboard, as lists vary by processor model. Choose an exact kit that matches your system. Or visit a RAM vendor’s site and use their selection tool; buying a fully supported kit ensures reliability.
Unfortunately I purchased RAM before making sure everything was correct, so it's on its way. The CPU arrived today and the motherboard was sent today. However, I wouldn't say it's incompatible—I've seen people using R5 3600 with some of these RAM sticks. I usually go for the cheapest and best options, but I noticed a small difference in FPS between 3200MHz and 3600MHz games. I also read on Reddit that someone tested various frequencies and found 3866MHz to be the best.
UPDATE:
I checked Google and it looks like memory isn't QVL compatible, so I'm going to try it. Hope it works even with XMP, or else I'll need proper QVL RAM.
For the AM4 platform, the RAM frequency plays a crucial role since the Infinity Fabric’s internal data bus is linked to it (running at half the RAM speed). It’s true that these multi-core processors are made up of two modules with several cores, which exchange information via the Infinity Fabric. Speed is important, but it isn’t the sole consideration.
In this context, modules capable of reaching at least 3200 frequencies during overclocking are highly sought after. The Infinity Fabric frequency already meets the processor’s requirements. Higher speeds also boost performance, though they demand greater voltages, superior motherboards, and better memory choices. An increase from 3200CL14 to 3466CL14 is possible, but achieving such rates often takes a lot of time and doesn’t justify the effort. Currently, however, conditions are more favorable, with many Hynix and Micron models supporting 3200–3333 on AM4, and B-die models confidently handling 3600.
Using the same memory at lower timings (at the same frequency) can be more efficient. For instance, 3200CL14 is better than 3200CL16. With proper tuning of secondary and tertiary timings, performance gains of up to 45% in synthetic tests and up to 25% in games are achievable.
ASRock B550M-HDV stands out as a unique device. It runs smoothly with a 3900X CPU without excessive heat generation. Just be cautious about overclocking and ensure adequate cooling, since the board’s VRM only supports standard power levels which can cause the CPU to overheat. Buying RAM without verifying compatibility with your CPU and motherboard wasn’t a good move. The modules should function properly when used together as a pair. Mixing different models can lead to system issues or failure. Information on RAM module setup, clock speed, and timing from @geofelt and @Alex Storm is accurate. The Ryzen DRAM calculator is now outdated, but I updated it myself recently. Note: If you wish to maximize performance, update your BIOS—especially if your motherboard uses an older version. The latest ASRock B550M-HDV BIOS version is 1.70, which you can install via a flash drive from the BIOS settings.
Thank you for your message. I noticed some comments on different stores about these items, like MB or RAMs... people are testing them out. However, on Amazon, some mentioned their memory didn’t work with Ryzen, possibly due to different specifications.
I understood that higher MHz is preferable, but I chose the cheapest option since I don’t expect much from it. Saving a few dollars on getting 3200 over 3600 was reasonable.
As I mentioned earlier, I currently have an RX580, so in most games the performance will be limited by GPU bottleneck (the calculator suggests about 10-15% slower). Only in a few CPU-dependent games might RAM speed make a difference, and even then it would only bring around 10 FPS.
That’s why I initially asked about its overclocking possibilities.
I was a bit worried about having to return the RAM or buy quality QVL memory for 30 to 40+ euros. For the CPU cooler, I plan to replace my old Arctic freezer 13 with an AMD kit I found in a drawer—so there’s potential for an upgrade. However, this cooler faces upward, which is a bit unconventional.
RAM should function properly when using identical modules in pairs or even better—two or four matching modules. Kits are preferable since the modules within a kit have been tested together at overclocked speeds. Once the PSU and CPU cooler are in place, ensure they align with the power converted to heat during CPU operation. Typically this is calculated as TDP multiplied by 2.5, or even 3 for Intel CPUs. Notably, the Arctic Freezer 13 outperforms most AMD stock coolers and handles Ryzen 5 3600 well (if your kit supports AM4 sockets). However, during gaming or high activity where RPMs exceed 50%, it can become quite noisy. Adjusting the fan temperature curve can help manage noise, but a larger, quieter cooler would immediately increase your budget. If you prefer staying within budget, consider the Arctic Freezer 34 or Xilence M403PRO.
Thanks for your worries... but the GPU is really loud, especially with the RX 580 Sapphire.
I use headphones so the noise doesn’t disturb me.
With this card you’ll also need to adjust the fan speed manually after gaming because it keeps running high even when idle near full speed.
My old CPU (i5 3470) might be upgraded to something better, like an i5 with stock fan, and I can put my budget Arctic Freezer 13 on R5 3600. I’m confident the temperature will stay fine.
All the ideas here are just theories while I wait for the parts.
I’ll wrap up after the rebuild.