Mixing Memory Frequency

[BellyFlop]

Okay, hear is a simple one but I need to confirm what I think is the answer. Let me bounce this off of you. I currently have 6gb (3x2gb) triple channel 1600 mhz memory cards installed. Now, wanting more memory - I ordered 12gb (3x4gb) double channel 2000 mhz memory.

Are these compatible. I understand that the 2000mhz will be downgraded to the 1600mhz that I have OC to 1866mhz, but are the triple and double compatible?

Motherboard is the ASUS P6T SE (I know, outdated!) with an Intel i-7 950

 

[jemm]

If you populate all the 6 memories channels you may have to downclock the memories frequencies to 1333MHz.

I would recommend you to place on your mobo only the 12gb (3x4gb) double channel 2000 mhz memory kit you´ve ordered, as it´ll be using only 3 memories channels.

 

[BellyFlop]

Thank you for your input. I was leaning towards that conclusion as well. Why pay for 2000 MHz only to downclock it.

 

[BellyFlop]

Best answer selected by BellyFlop.

 

[jemm]

Thank you for your input. I was leaning towards that conclusion as well. Why pay for 2000 MHz only to downclock it.

Usually those who get high frequency memory kits downclock them in order to overclock the processor.

 

[beenthere]

It's never good to mix RAM, especially DDR3 RAM as it often will not work at all or without issues. It's always best to buy ONE matched, tested RAM kit of the quantity you desire.

As noted with all RAM slots filled most mobos reduce the RAM speed to the CPU default speed as it places an extreme load on the (IMC), memory controller.

 

[BellyFlop]

Usually those who get high frequency memory kits downclock them in order to overclock the processor.

That is actually exactly what I did. Overclocked CPU to 3.6 ghz and downclocked RAM to 1868 mhz. All worked out. Thanks for tips.