Question How to Read Motherboard Memory Specifications

[Pyramid-1957]

Do the memory specs below mean that only 5200/5000/4800MHz SDRAM are compatible with the motherboard in question but that they can be overclocked up to 6400MHz? Or do they mean that a DDR5-6400 rated RAM kit, for example, is supported? In other words, if I buy a DDR5-6400 kit, will it be compatible with a motherboard which publishes memory compatibility specs like the ones seen here:
4 x DIMM, Max. 128GB, DDR5 6400+(OC)/ 6200(OC)/ 6000(OC)/ 5800(OC)/ 5600(OC)/ 5400(OC)/ 5200/ 5000/ 4800
I guess I'm asking how to read such specs. I find them very confusing. Thanks.

 

[tennis2]

There's 2 parts to the equation:

1. The RAM traces (wires) on the mobo need to be able to maintain/support signaling speeds. You'll notice that cheaper mobos typically don't list quite as high of memory speeds as mid range and expensive ones.
   1. If higher RAM speeds come out later (ie DDR5 is relatively new) it's up to the mobo manufacturer to update their webpage to accurately convey whether or not their mobos support speeds that high. That can be hit-or-miss unfortunately.
2. Ultimately the RAM controller is on the CPU, so even if the mobo is capable of higher speeds, the CPU IMC needs to be able to deal with that also/moreso.

 

[Pyramid-1957]

Thanks!