Unable to set multiplier higher than x14 (XMP 1600 CAS 9)

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E

e-z e

Honorable
Jul 19, 2012
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10,510
CPU: Intel Pentium G3250
MB: Gigabyte B85 Phoenix Wi-fi rev. 2.0
Memory: Crucial Ballistx Sport 4GB (2x2)
Bios: F2, and F3 were tried during initial troubleshooting

The problem has been getting the MB bios to set the XMP profile. After setting the profile it shows a x14 memory multiplier. Although it shows 1598 MHz as the desired speed in bios, the actual speed reported in cpu-z is 698.3 MHz (approximately 1400MHz). It appears that there are no mulitpliers higher than 14 available in the bios. I've tried several different multipliers in the hopes that it would set 16, but no luck. Tweaking most of the other options in the RAM section hasn't allowed me to go higher than x14. I tried using the cntrl+f1 combo at the main screeen and the memory screen in bios to unlock other options, but nothing is changed. the XMP profile is 800 CAS 9. Even the JEDEC profiles list the same speed and latency. Manual settings are working only in the opposite direction (1333 1066 1400). Tried using an older bios (F2) no changes.

Prior to starting the build I checked the Gigabyte qualified vendor list for compatible RAM. This set wasn't on the list, but my budget wouldn't allow using any of the sets listed there. I rolled the dice hoping for a favorable outcome. I'm thinking this set just isn't compatible with my board. Not blaming either manufacturer for my gamble here, but hoping there's something obvious I'm missing.
 
Solution
Tradesman1
Where in CPU-Z - is that in the Memory tab? It may be 1333 is it, the 3250 is only rated to 1333, if....and that is IF, it has a strong MC (memory controller) then it might be able to run 1600, but no guarantees
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E

e-z e

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Jul 19, 2012
14
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10,510
I agree, I'd contemplated dropping down to CAS 8 to try and offset the 200 MHz difference (which is admittedly not much). Although I can return the memory or board to Newegg in the hopes of a different outcome. My only concern being the lack of a x16 multi if i upgrade the capacity at a later date. At present I'm only using this build to access web based service manuals for work, RAM performance isn't a huge concern at this time. I just don't want to be hamstrung down the road if this is an issue with the board. Would it be wise to send back the board while i can still use Newegg's 30 day return policy?
 
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geofelt

geofelt

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Oct 9, 2006
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I would not bother to send back the board.
But, possibly the ram.
4gb is not enough these days assuming your os is 64 bit capable.
I would buy a supported 2 x 4gb kit.
A ram web site will have an app to verify compatible kits.

Adding ram later is not guaranteed to work.
It is best to buy your needs up front in one kit.
 
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E

e-z e

Honorable
Jul 19, 2012
14
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10,510
Decided to bring it home for some testing this weekend. Going to swap the sticks with a pair out of my main rig (conveniently they're on the approved list). If those hit XMP automatically or I'm able to select the x16 multi I'll send the sticks back and get a compatible set. If those don't work I'll send back the board. 4GB is plenty for the tasks in using this rig for. I still need to stay within budget, and doubling the cost of RAM will only aggro the wife.

Thanks for the help, it's always beneficial to have someone to bounce ideas off of! I'll reply back once I find a resolution, someone might find this of use.
 
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E

e-z e

Honorable
Jul 19, 2012
14
0
10,510
Looks like the mb is faulty. Swapped over two different sets of sticks from my gaming rig, and my wife's workstation, both in 1 DIMM and 2 DIMM configurations with either slot in 1 DIMM. Neither enabled a memory multiplier higher than x14. Also tried the F1 bios, nothing helped. Just going to bite the bullet and return the board. Likely going to move up to the top of the 1150 socket with a Z97. Should've known better than to cheap out on the motherboard. Another lesson learned.
 
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E

e-z e

Honorable
Jul 19, 2012
14
0
10,510
Yes, in the memory tab of CPU-Z is where I'm looking at the RAM speed/latency. Also shows current values in BIOS, right next to the selected settings which reflect XMP (that aren't applied). BCLK looks like it is set to 114 in BIOS, FSB:DRAM=1:7, which would give me approximately 1600 on RAM and 3.65 core, but neither clock is actually applied. BCLK remains at 100 (actually 98.6) with no available adjustment. If the board would actually let me adjust BCLK I'd be in business even if the IMC only gave me FSB:DRAM of 1:7. It is highly likely as you said that the IMC is locked down ratio wise, I'm hoping a Z97 board will at least give me control of BCLk. I don't typically screw around with BCLK, (too much fun was had with my 930 on X58) due to the headaches it can cause with the other related clocks, and the stability issues that can crop up. Although in this situation I was hoping for at least that basic level of functionality to juice up the RAM and CPU a bit. Once I get the new board this weekend I'll see what happens and report back. If I still can't get the adjustments I want I'll crawl back to the wife in the hopes she'll have mercy and let me move up to at least a G3258, or maybe an I3. Thanks again for all your help!
 
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E

e-z e

Honorable
Jul 19, 2012
14
0
10,510
Got the new board (Gigabyte Z97N Gaming5), got everything installed, was able to set any memory multi I could ask for. Was also able to adjust bclk with much granularity. The existing RAM was actually a pretty good overclocker. 1800MHz CAS 9 with few problems, just a bit more voltage was needed (1.58v).

A good buddy of mine gave me a call over the weekend, Fry's was having a fire sale on the I7-4790k. Eventually convinced the wife that $285 was a steal for that chip. So Santa Claus came early this year. Moved my I5-4670k to this computer and setup a mild 4.0GHz oc. Got the I7 at home up to 4.7 at 1.28V . Thermally limited unfortunately, it was stable at 4.8 1.3V vcore. Temps were hitting 90c with my H100i. Reseated the cooler, but still no dice. Plenty happy with 4.7 though.

Everything turned up roses with the right equipment. If I ever decide to run a low end board, I'll temper my expectations for tuning, and go with stock results. Thanks again for all your help!
 
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