[SOLVED] RAM upgrade questions

[Benton92]

CPU: Ryzen 2 1200 3.1 Ghz
Motherboard: MSI B350 PC Mate
Current RAM: G.Skill NT Series 2400 Mhz DDR4 (2x4gb)
Upgrade RAM: G.Skill Trident Z RGB 16GB (2x8gb) DDR4 3000Mhz

1. If I take my current RAM out of my MOBO and put in the new RAM, can I do that with my setup? And if so, what do I need to do to prep the system?

2. I will also be upgrading my CPU to a Ryzen 5 3600, so should I replace the CPU or the RAM first?

P.S.
I'm not new to building computers, but I am new to upgrading a system which has already been built. So, if my questions seem obvious, please understand that I don't have experience like most of you do.

 

[richiestang_78]

First things first, you'll need to update your BIOS with your Ryzen 1200 already in it, you need to have a BIOS that is compatible with the 3600 before you remove your 1200.

https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/support/B350-PC-MATE

Here is a video guide that should be close to how yours should look

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SgTokymDCcs


Second, if you haven't bought the RAM already, get 3200 or faster RAM, Ryzen likes fast RAM , and faster the better.

As far as the RAM goes, I would do it after you update your BIOS and CPU just so you ensure that your CPU is working correctly with RAM that you know works(limit variables). Then just remove the old RAM, and put in the new RAM. Be sure that you have the RAM installed in the correct slots which should be the A2 and B2 DIMM slots.

Also I would suggest you watch some videos on installing Ryzen CPUs, cleaning off old thermal compound (coffee filters and alcohol works best) and applying new (if you have to, but I think the stock coolers have pre-applied on them, just remove and plastic film from it) and installing the cooler again. Its not hard but you don't want to miss or mess up a step.

 

[Benton92]

First things first, you'll need to update your BIOS with your Ryzen 1200 already in it, you need to have a BIOS that is compatible with the 3600 before you remove your 1200.

Do I just get the latest BIOS or should I get a specific BIOS for the Ryzen 5 3600?

 

[richiestang_78]

I would suggest getting the latest BIOS.