XMP problems and unexpected shutdowns, mostly during gameplay.
XMP problems and unexpected shutdowns, mostly during gameplay.
Hello, I'm trying to figure out a problem I'm facing. I recently upgraded my system with 32GB of RAM and set it to XMP profile 1, but it crashes during gaming. If I stick to the default setting at 3200 MHz, everything runs smoothly. Checking with CPU-Z shows the TRCL should be 65, yet my motherboard displays 64. I'm also noticing that with only two dimmable LEDs installed, the board doesn't power on properly, even though four work when swapping two.
My setup includes two 16GB Corsair Vengeance RT RGB cards at 3600 MHz, a Z490 Aqua 11900K motherboard with 32GB DDR4 and 4 NVMe drives, a Gen 3 CPU, and a new GPU. The system is water-cooled and all temperatures are normal. I haven't experienced any issues before, especially since my previous memory was 3200 MHz at 16GB. I'm wondering if the 11900K's IMC or something else is causing the problem. My BIOS seems fine, and VRM temps are stable. I doubt the RAM is the issue, but I'm not sure if the increased memory speed is worth the trouble. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
3200 is officially accepted, and loading XMP is seen as an overclock. However, the CPU doesn't gain much from quicker RAM performance.
When XMP isn't stable, then you have to do some manual adjustments. It's not worth your time unless you're into overclocking. But I suppose there's a chance a 1 or 2 voltage tweaks might make stable. You'd need to do research on it.
Thank you for all the replies. I really appreciate the feedback. I'm not interested in overclocking, just want the computer to run cool, which it does so I'll leave XMP off and just run it at 3200. It was just annoying me it wouldn't run at 3600 never mind eh. Thanks for the replies regardless, I do appreciate it. Spoiler This is my build, everything used and budget, just waiting for my 3080 to turn up to replace the 5700XT
Today I went through a few tests on the board. It seems it's built much larger than necessary for its purpose. When I turn on XMP and pick the speed 3466, everything runs smoothly. If I leave it at 3600 but lower the voltage to 1.32v, it works too. I'm confused because I expected higher voltage to be better for stability, but it doesn't seem to matter much.
The issue isn't the memory itself; it's about exceeding the CPU's limits and chasing unrealistic performance. Overclocking by lowering voltage is standard, but it's still a gamble. Others might have the same parts and need different settings to achieve comparable speeds. Manufacturers use varied chips and models to balance speed and stability across batches.