Is it safe to overvolt my RAM?

Deus Gladiorum

Distinguished
I have 2x4GB Corsair DDR3-1600 memory sticks rated at 9-9-9-24 at 1.5 V according to the product description. However my motherboard set my memory to 1333, so after OCing my CPU I wanted to set my RAM to 1600 while decreasing CAS from 9 to 8. However it doesn't seem to remain stable according to Prime 95 (I fail blend tests after 30 minutes, but small FFTs I've tested for 2 hours so far successfully and will test for longer later). So is it ok to set voltage from stock 1.5 to 1.65?
 
Solution
Download CPU-Z and check the SPD tab. It will tell you what timings and voltages your memory is rated for.
http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html

Most likely you will be safe up to 1.65volts. But that is not something we can guarantee. Overclocking and overvolting carries risks. Overvolting memory on Intel systems can fry the memory controller. It is a risk you have to decide if you are willing to chance it.
 

Legohouse

Honorable
May 13, 2013
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If the rated CAS is upto 9, then do not go beyond that (i.e, dont go for CAS 8). Moreover, the difference is minute between the two latencies. Usually, advanced memory like Corsair test their memory at various latencies and they list only stable latencies so better follow their specs. As mentioned in the earlier post if you are not careful enough then you might fry your MC (memory controller). Good Luck!!
 

Tradesman1

Legenda in Aeternum
A lot depends on what you are running, CPU and DRAM (to a degree even the mobo, gen with 1.5 sticks it's safe to go up about + 0.10 as a general rule, if sticks are native 1.65 and 1866 or lower I wouldn't go over the 1.65, then again I wouldn't suggest buying 1866 or below at 1.65

Let us know your CPU, mobo, and what set of DRAM you have (by model #)
 

exzul1

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Oct 29, 2013
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I'm running as azrock z87 Oc formula with a 4670k @ 4.8 (not sure the voltage off the top of my head but isn't too high i get about 67 in prime 95) I've recently added a waterblock out of compulsion for my ares ram F3-2133C9D-8GAB i have 2 of these sets on a 2400 profile though.... any thoughts about over volting this ram? I would like to push it if possible and try get a higher memory clock but haven't really had a play with it yet.

 

Tradesman1

Legenda in Aeternum

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With the Ares, I'd keep them to 1.7 at the max, they have a little headroom for OC but not a lot, might try raising the CAS if things get tight on voltage - and may add a little extra to the MC voltage as opposed to DRAM voltage
 
Solution