Print Page - RAM compatibility.

Title: RAM compatibility.
Post by: Traveller on October 09, 2009, 16:01 hrs

Hi All.

I have just noticed that the RAM which I was planning on buying (DDR3) is rated at 1.8v, however, the motherboard I was planning on buying states 1.5v. I have done a search for this problem on the Internet and this question seems to be quite common. The answers which I have read are usually that the voltage can be changed in BIOS. I checked the motherboard's manual and this is what it says.

DDR3 Voltage Control
Allows you to set memory voltage.
Normal Supplies the memory voltage as required. (Default)
+0.050V ~ +0.750V Increases memory voltage by 0.050V to 0.750V at 0.05V increment.
Increasing memory voltage may result in damage to the memory.

I will not be overclocking and do not wish to risk any damage at all to my pc or its components. The problem is I have briefly browsed various types of memory and the voltages are quite varied; 1.5, 1.9, +2, etc. I haven't come across memory at 1.8v so how exactly does a person choose suitable memory for a motherboard? Am I missing something????

Thanks.

Title: Re: RAM compatibility.
Post by: Buffalo2102 on October 10, 2009, 09:32 hrs

It shouldn't be an issue. Most motherboards should have the memory voltage set to auto by default. In this mode the motherboard will automatically supply the required voltage to the memory. The adjustments in the BIOS are usually only for overclockers who would set the voltage to manual and then overvolt the memory before increasing the FSB and memory speeds.

The motherboard should not just specify 1.5V but a range of voltages that it supports, or a list of compatible memory. Looking at the list should give an idea of the voltages supported. As you have seen, 1.5V is quite low so I suspect that this may be a minimum voltage supported by the motherboard?

If you want to be safe, then Google for people on forums that are already using your board and see what memory they are using.

Buff

Title: Re: RAM compatibility.
Post by: pat on October 11, 2009, 08:07 hrs

What were you planning on buying?

Title: Re: RAM compatibility.
Post by: Traveller on October 14, 2009, 09:57 hrs

Thanks for the good explanation Buff. I understand it clearly now.

Hi Pat. I have decided not to go for the RAM I decided on earlier but haven't yet decided on which I will be going for. I'm still choosing.

Thanks.

Title: Re: RAM compatibility.
Post by: Bill on October 14, 2009, 10:22 hrs

Which motherboard are you considering?

Bill

Title: Re: RAM compatibility.
Post by: Traveller on October 15, 2009, 15:19 hrs

Hi Bill.

MA785GT-UD3H. I have seen RAM which is 1.5v (same as the motherboard) and may go for that instead. Might reduce the chances of any problems.

Thanks.

Title: Re: RAM compatibility.
Post by: Bill on October 15, 2009, 16:22 hrs

This link will take you to the Gigabyte page for the MB. On the right lower section is a link to qualified memory brands and speeds. http://tinyurl.com/yz3w3fx

May answer your questions.

Bill

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Computer Help Desk => Desktop Help => Topic started by: Traveller on October 09, 2009, 16:01 hrs