Question If you overclock RAM with XMP does your CPU need to support it?

[Crag_Hack]

Hi I have a simple question... if you overclock your RAM using XMP does the CPU need to support it? I vaguely remember the CPU and RAM timings are linked and if you overclock one you overclock the other. So then even though the RAM supports the faster speed the system might not be stable because of the CPU. Thanks!

 

[Cyberat_88]

For stability YES. And FYI watch other experts' videos also, Mhz speed of RAM translates to only 1/10th in overall better system performance. So let's say you went from XMP 3200 to OC 3600, your 400Mhz gain is about 12.5% improvement or 1.25% better system performance overall.
If you want better Ram response, go with the 3200mhz that has better CL/CAS response times.
I don't recommend OC for non-professionals for many reasons, but if the gain of overall system performance is 5-10% then it's a risk they will take and know how to recognize the fail points and the abnormal behavior.
With modern systems, Gen 5 & Gen 6, there is absolutely 0 reason for OC in gaming or high perf. apps..

 

[CountMike]

Hi I have a simple question... if you overclock your RAM using XMP does the CPU need to support it? I vaguely remember the CPU and RAM timings are linked and if you overclock one you overclock the other. So then even though the RAM supports the faster speed the system might not be stable because of the CPU. Thanks!

In modern systems Memory controller is in the processor but it's clock is separate from CPU cores. One doesn't change other. Many have set memory controller(IMC) with some maximum while others allow for some OC over certified frequency.
What else can change RAM frequency is FSB/BCLK if BIOS allows it.
Speaking of BIOS. it must have option for OC and most have a set top limit depending om MB architecture and CPU's IMC.
XMP is just set of instructions written in RAM control module for BIOS to make settings (Voltage, latency etc.) to fit specified RAM frequency so you don't have to do it manually.

 

[Crag_Hack]

@CountMike Does the CPU then play any role in stability of the system when XMP'ing RAM without overclocking the CPU? If so how? My buddy's computer he just built for some reason isn't stable with XMP on.

 

[Crag_Hack]

@Cyberat_88 How does the CPU play a role in stability?

 

[Eximo]

It is extremely common to run XMP profiles on locked and unoverclocked CPUs. Both my systems do this now.

It is a system. Like asking how the engine in a car plays a role with the tires. Many interactions.

Every CPU, memory, and motherboard is a combination of resistances, trace lengths, power delivery, and silicon quality, coupled with the BIOS firmware to run it all.

Memory is tested and sold in kits because they have very tight tolerances for working together at such high frequencies. Did your friend buy matched memory or separate sticks or kits?

Have you tried updating to the latest BIOS version?

Sometimes you need to increase the DRAM voltage to achieve higher clocks, particularly when using more than two sticks of memory. Adding .05-.1 volts or more for very high memory overclocks can be necessary.

You would need to list all the hardware in question for a better answer.

 

[Cyberat_88]

Like any hardware parameters, the brain of the machine has limits. Staying within those limits offer stability, going outside the limits is pushing the envelope to where you trade performance for stability.
You can OC a CPU to 6ghz with liquid nitrogen cooling, but will it be stable ? No.

 

[Crag_Hack]

Thanks guys, this finishes the thread for me. My buddy might post soon here we'll see.