Optimizing my Memory/CPU timings!

[theyoyoman]

Alrighty! So I want to optimize my timing/ratios between my ram and cpu. I am new at this and would appreciate any help you could offer me!

Here is my ram:

HyperX KHX16C9B1RK2/8X
DDR3 1600
Cas Latency 9
Voltage 1.65V
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820104339


and... here is my CPU:
i5-3330

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819116781

Any help offered would be awesome!

Thanks!

P.S.- also here is my motherboard info just in case (idk if you need it... but...)
ASRock Z77 Extreme3
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157330

 

[photonboy]

RAM profiles are preset if your BIOS has them.

If so, there's usually an "XMP" or whatever profile in your BIOS that sets the proper timings and frequency.

*If the profile is not available you may need a BIOS update.
**Once set, verify via Memtest or use the Windows Memory application to test ( www.memtest.org )

 

[sluggercz]

^What he said, also check the packaging your RAM came with - or the manufacturer's website- as their is usually information regarding the proper timings or XMP profile you should use.

 

[photonboy]

Another way to verify is CPU-Z
http://www.cpuid.com/downloads/cpu-z/1.62-setup-en.exe

CPU-Z notes:
1) CPU:
If your CPU is setup for power savings, you should see the frequency toggle back and forth occasionally. Overclocking disables certain features and usually locks the frequency (my i7-3770K toggles between 1600MHz and 3700MHz).

2) MAINBOARD:
You can view your BIOS version here then compare at your motherboard support site to see if a newer version exists

3) MEMORY
The frequency shown is for a single stick. Your RAM should be installed in pairs though allowing TWICE this speed. If you have 1600MHz RAM you should see 800MHz or close.

4) SPD
Of note is the "SPD ext."; it can show you that a PROFILE is detected (though I'm not sure if that indicates you've selected it in the BIOS or whether it's just available).

*My 2133MHz RAM defaulted to 1600MHz at first even though the BIOS contained it's profile. I selected the profile (XMP) and the BIOS then automatically set it to 2133MHz with the exact timings.

**as mentioned, compare the shown TIMINGS and FREQUENCY to what the RAM should be at for optimal values.

 

[theyoyoman]

Best answer selected by theyoyoman.