Installing Memory Modules

[Avagadro1]

I have a new ASRock H170M_Pro4 Motherboard. I have two sticks of memory; no more is intended.

The memory slots are labeled: A1, A2, B1, B2

Not clear to me from the manual: Do I install the memory into Slots A2 and B2, or Slots A1 and B1?

Thank you.

 

[Luminary]

A2 and B2. Those are priority 1.

Page 15 from your manual: http://66.226.78.22/downloadsite/Manual/H170M%20Pro4.pdf

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

 

[Avagadro1]

Thank you for your response, and yes, I read that page. Nonetheless, as a first-time builder I still am not sure.

I see the "Priority" column in the table, but I do not know the meaning of "Priority". In other words, do I look to "Priority 1" or "Priority 2"?

Thank you.

 

[Luminary]

You'll want Priority 1. Use A2 and B2 like I recommended above. 😉

 

[Avagadro1]

Thank you so much.

By the way, if you don't mind . . . can you tell me what "Priority" means in this context?

Which inevitably leads to the question: If one has only two memory sticks, why is there a "Priority 2"?

Thanks.

 

[Luminary]

Priority in this context refers to which two slots the IMC (internal memory controller) looks for first. Putting RAM in priority 1 helps maximize performance.

There is only really priority 2 because slots A1 and B1 are also needed for use with all 4 sticks of RAM. If the motherboard didn't support 4 RAM modules at the same time there would be no need to even provision a 'priority 2' as a possible choice.

 

[Avagadro1]

Got it. Thank you.

 

[Luminary]

You're most welcome.

 

[Avagadro1]

Luminary, thank you. But more to come . . .

Last night, prior to my question posted here, I sent a Tech Support e-mail request to ASRock. I received a brief reply today.

It said: "A1 and B1 must be installed."

So now, as a new builder, I cannot help but to be confused. What do you suppose ASRock Tech Support had in mind?

 

[Luminary]

Can't be sure. Perhaps it was a mistake in the manual.

Either way, go ahead with their recommendation on A1 and B1 and see if it works. If the PC posts, everything is fine.

 

[Avagadro1]

OK. I just telephoned ASRock Tech Support (got through very quickly).

The fellow said that, for two sticks, use A1 & B1. Use A2 & B2 only if I have a very large cooler that blocks the A1 slot.

SO THE ASROCK INSTALLATION MANUAL IS WRONG!

Thus it appears that the issue is resolved, unless any gurus would like to follow-up. Very Interesting.

Thanks all.