- Mar 16, 2011
- 217
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I recently changed my MB + RAM and kept my processor. For the MoBo I got a GB 970A-UD3, with a 2x4GB kit of G.Skill Snipers @ 1866Mhz with 9-10-9-28 timings.
Since my processor is a Phenom II 945, which is AM3, the memory controller isn't supposed to go beyong 1333MHz. So I'll leave the frequency headroom for when I change my CPU, and in the meantime I intend to underclock the RAM to 1333 and tighten the timings, as I've read that Phenoms get some benefit from this.
I have moderate CPU overclocking experience, but underclocking and playing with timings is new to me. I've been playing around and I've adjusted the timings down to 6-7-6-19 and it's been stable, but it's all been a shot in the dark as I'm not really sure of what I'm doing, so I figured asking the fellas at Tom's.
Main question is: Is there a way of knowing the timings my RAM can take at that lower speed, or is it a matter of trying? Any rules of thumb I should follow? (For example, tried 6-6-6-18 and failed to post).
Second question: Am I OK leaving all other timings for auto adjustment by the BIOS? Cracking those 4 numbers is already complicated - or what would you suggest?
Bonus question: After I achieve satisfying timings, when I overclock the CPU (all this has been at stock frequency for CPU and everything else), can I leave those timings as long as I stick with the 1333MHz?
Thanks a lot guys. If I've left out any useful info just let me know. Cheers.
Since my processor is a Phenom II 945, which is AM3, the memory controller isn't supposed to go beyong 1333MHz. So I'll leave the frequency headroom for when I change my CPU, and in the meantime I intend to underclock the RAM to 1333 and tighten the timings, as I've read that Phenoms get some benefit from this.
I have moderate CPU overclocking experience, but underclocking and playing with timings is new to me. I've been playing around and I've adjusted the timings down to 6-7-6-19 and it's been stable, but it's all been a shot in the dark as I'm not really sure of what I'm doing, so I figured asking the fellas at Tom's.
Main question is: Is there a way of knowing the timings my RAM can take at that lower speed, or is it a matter of trying? Any rules of thumb I should follow? (For example, tried 6-6-6-18 and failed to post).
Second question: Am I OK leaving all other timings for auto adjustment by the BIOS? Cracking those 4 numbers is already complicated - or what would you suggest?
Bonus question: After I achieve satisfying timings, when I overclock the CPU (all this has been at stock frequency for CPU and everything else), can I leave those timings as long as I stick with the 1333MHz?
Thanks a lot guys. If I've left out any useful info just let me know. Cheers.
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