Can we use 12GB RAM on an X58 platform?

[Affy]

Sponsored Links

I came to know from the Intel manual that by Intel Specification Definition, XMP DIMMS and DDR3 1600 supports 1 DIMM per channel only in X58 platform. How about 12GB RAM (3x4GB) at 1600 MHz?

Will that be too much for the controller to handle?

I tried finding out documentation on this, but couldn’t find any.

[Chopfyt]

The Intel memory specifications quoted by you for X58 are what Intel states and guarantees will work. However, the CPU’s IMC is much more capable than indicated. Since X58 platform has 3 channels for memory system, one 1600 XMP DIMM in each channel fits the specifications.

However, I use six 2GB XMP 1600 DIMMs in my X58 board, and it works perfect at 1600. That is two XMP 1600 DIMMs per channel, for the same capacity per channel as your 4GB DIMMs.

Some users go beyond this level of memory o this platform. Considering that, your requirement would be met up.

[Affy]

Actually, even I use six 2GB XMP DIMMs, but I downclock the frequency to 1333MHz. I enquired about 12GB RAM (3X$GB) at 1600Mhz, because I was considering an upgrade in order to use 12GB on 1600MHz.

I know many friends who use use two XMP per channel; but Intel says that each channel supports only one.

That´s the point of my question, I mean is it fine to use two XMP 1600MHz DIMMs per channel then?

[Chopfyt]

You definitely can. I have been doing this since a year now. I use the XMP profile at 1600, at 1.5V done

Intel may have kept the memory speed spec low due to the "missing memory" issue.

The IMC in the CPU is the issue IMO, and a tweak of its voltage, either up or down (down worked in my case) is the main fix, IMO. Just FYI if you've never experienced it.

What are you concerned about happening if you use all your memory at 1600? Blue Screen Of Death or no boot?

[Affy]

My memory manufacturer may be termed culprit for this misinformation. When I bought my second kit of 6 RAMs, he asked me to downclock it to 1333Mhz on a 12 GB configuration.

Ever since, I’m using it that way and looking for ways to use it in 1600MHz.

[Chopfyt]

I’m surprised by this quote of his.

Anyways, relax! Nothing will happen even if you overload. Worst come worst, your system will either won’t boot or keep restarting or show BSOD.

You can then make necessary changes.

None of these actions will damage your system. People do this often but nothing is damaged during memory testing.