The new PC I built has 2GB of DDR2 800 memory. The BIOS is properly set for DDR800 mode. When I run CPU-Z and similar programs, RAM frequency is listed as being 2x383MHz where I was expecting 2x400Mhz. Other than this one issue, the system is stable. Is this memory defective? I still have time to return any of the components if they prove to be defective.

What is your cpu fsb? If it is 383 you are running 1:1 mode.

CPU fsb is 200MHz. I've tried setting ddr mode to auto and 800, it still says 383MHz. FSB/DRAM on CPU-Z says "CPU/6". Is this happening because of wrong bios settings?

The RAM is not defective. The RAM doesn't set the speed, the mobo does. Can you post screen shots of the mobo and memory tabs in CPU-Z?

Capture the active window with Capture /// AnalogX by right clicking on the icon next to the clock. Be sure to note the location of the pic. Use TinyPic to host it for you.

I guess not. It doesn't matter anyway. The 17Hz has absolutely zero affect on performance.

Here are the screenshots:

Would replacing them with a different brand of memory make any difference (run @400)? I wish I had bought lower latency memory.

Ok, this is an AMD, I should have asked for specs. Also I dorked, I need the CPU tab not the mobo tab.

Calling on all AMD experts to get the missing 17Hz.

Well now the memory is running @ 397.7 after changing the fsb to 208. I still don't understand why I would have to do that to get the DIMMS to run at their advertised speeds

Nothing is "defective". The 17hz is in the wind. I don't have any real depth with AMD. I should probably get one and play with it. It's common for the numbers on an Intel to be a few hertz off. Granted they aren't 17Hz, but that's still a very small number percentage wise. The SPD is data stored on the RAM that tells the mobo the default speed and timings of the RAM, it is not "defective". I would let it eat.

If you want an answer post in the OC AMD section. In the title say "RAM not reading the correct speed in CPU-Z" Hopefully an AMD OC madman, if there are any left, will respond and find the 17/34Hz.

Don't panic nothing is defective and you will never notice the difference.

Link the new thread in this one I would like to see the responses.

I just saw this. As I said many times, it's in the mobo. It's not defective, let it eat.

Thanks, you're probably right. I'm content to OC my CPU a little to reach DDR800 or a little over. If I have time I'll start a new topic in the AMD section.

It really is in the wind and not an indication of defective parts or a failure. When something is defective and fails you won't need to ask.

your quibbling over peanut scraps, your ram is fine.