Dumb question about RAM

buzz3470 · May 1, 2016

I'm building my first computer and I'm sure this is a really stupid question, but here is what I currently have.
Here is the motherboard I am getting: http://
Here is the RAM I am looking at: http://
I want to get 16 GB RAM in total. I know this isn't sold as a kit, so can I buy two sticks and it will still work fine or do I need to find a 16 GB kit? i know Crucial is a good brand and it is compatible with my motherboard, but I just wasn't sure if I could get two sticks or I need a kit. If you need anymore info let me know, and I really appreciate the help.

Flyfisherman · May 1, 2016

Hi,

No questions is dumb, but the answers sometime can be..hehe.

Ok.
First:
Important is the voltage of these and what system (processor) you are going to use them in.

Intel for example has clear recommendations: All Intel Core i3, i5, i7 of second, third and forth generation should only use 1,5V +/-5% memory, higher voltage will put more stress to the processor and it will shorten its life span.

Memory's of the fifth generation "Skylake" for an example have two different types: DDR4 max 1.2V and DDR3L(Low voltage) max 1.35V
Never exceed this if you like your processor to last.

Your motherboard and CPU should only use 1.5V memory.
The mobo has two memory channels and therefore it is optimum to go for two memory sticks - not fill them all if it is fast memory's.

Ok, Lets use a memory configuratior to see what can be recommended:

http://www2.corsair.com/retailer/product_results.aspx?rid=13251&id=6109606
Guaranteed-Compatible Memory for your MSI Z97 PC Mate

For example:
CML8GX3M2A1866C9R DDR3-1866MHz (Vengeance LP-9-10-9-27*1.5v) Dual Channel 2x4 GB (Btw R after partnumber stands for red, ommit and you will get black ones).

CMX16GX3M2A1333C9 DDR3-1333 (XMS3-9-9-9-24*1.5v) Dual Channel 2x8GB

CML16GX3M4A1600C9 DDR3-1600 (Vengeance LP-9-9-9-24*1.5v) Dual Channel 4x4 GB

There are more in the link if you like.
Btw. LP=Low profile memory which means they are only 26.25mm in height and will fit under any CPU cooler.
Best Regards from Sweden

Ps. And remember: to be able to use the motherboards dual memory channels - mount the memory sticks on either the blue or the black slots, every second one - if you are going for two memory sticks.

Another thing to check if you are going for a non LP (Low Profile) memory, make sure that they will fit under the CPU Cooler.
Check the specs for both memory and the CPU-cooler before.
Just a tip. Good luck

buzz3470 · May 1, 2016

Flyfisherman :

Hi,

No questions is dumb, but the answers sometime can be..hehe.

Ok.
First:
Important is the voltage of these and what system (processor) you are going to use them in.

Intel for example has clear recommendations: All Intel Core i3, i5, i7 of second, third and forth generation should only use 1,5V +/-5% memory, higher voltage will put more stress to the processor and it will shorten its life span.

Memory's of the fifth generation "Skylake" for an example have two different types: DDR4 max 1.2V and DDR3L(Low voltage) max 1.35V
Never exceed this if you like your processor to last.

Your motherboard and CPU should only use 1.5V memory.
The mobo has two memory channels and therefore it is optimum to go for two memory sticks - not fill them all if it is fast memory's.

Ok, Lets use a memory configuratior to see what can be recommended:

http://www2.corsair.com/retailer/product_results.aspx?rid=13251&id=6109606
Guaranteed-Compatible Memory for your MSI Z97 PC Mate

For example:
CML8GX3M2A1866C9R DDR3-1866MHz (Vengeance LP-9-10-9-27*1.5v) Dual Channel 2x4 GB (Btw R after partnumber stands for red, ommit and you will get black ones).

CMX16GX3M2A1333C9 DDR3-1333 (XMS3-9-9-9-24*1.5v) Dual Channel 2x8GB

CML16GX3M4A1600C9 DDR3-1600 (Vengeance LP-9-9-9-24*1.5v) Dual Channel 4x4 GB

There are more in the link if you like.
Btw. LP=Low profile memory which means they are only 26.25mm in height and will fit under any CPU cooler.
Best Regards from Sweden

Ps. And remember: to be able to use the motherboards dual memory channels - mount the memory sticks on either the blue or the black slots, every second one - if you are going for two memory sticks.

Another thing to check if you are going for a non LP (Low Profile) memory, make sure that they will fit under the CPU Cooler.
Check the specs for both memory and the CPU-cooler before.
Just a tip. Good luck

Awesome man, thank a lot really appreciate it.

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