So my CPU died. I have spoke with Intel representative and he asked me what memory I was using. I said I have two RAM kits; 1333 MHz 8GB & 8 GB 1600 MHz. He stated that none of their processors are compatible/ made to work with 1600 MHz RAM. Only Intel’s new* released 2011 CPU socket support up to 1600 MHz memory. He said that CPU will most likely fail if you were to use anything but 1333 (1.5V) MHz RAM. According to him none of Intel’s CPU is made to work with 1600 MHz (except 2011). Now here is question than why would anyone including Bit-tech buyers build guide year after year recommended us 1600 MHz RAM way before 2011 socket was out?
He gave you an odd answer imo. I'm on Lynnfield, an i5-750. So Intel rates it as compatible with 1333. I have 1600 RAM, but it downclocks itself to 1333. This happens with all 1600 RAM when you initially build the system, as the motherboard automatically runs them at 1333. In order to achieve 1600, you must overclock. So you're RAM may be capable of 1600, and may say so on the package or whatever, but it doesn't achieve that speed unless you overclock, and it is still perfectly compatible with all pre-socket 2011 chips. 'Most likely fail' is silly.
The intel rep was talking out of his a$$. The only way memory could have anything to do with a dead CPU is if you cranked the mem voltage up past 1.65v
Ok the reason is that the Intel Core i7 800 series supports up to 1333MHz, the Core i7 900 series like I have, supports up to 1066MHz. The thing is, when you use eXtreme Memory Profile, the motherboard clocks the system bus to try and achieve the memory clock rate. In my case 1333MHz (doesn't go to 1600MHz, unless I manually overclock). I believe Intel considers as an overclock, and voids the warranty of the CPU, even though you are not touching voltages. As mentioned, as long as your RAM doesn't pass 1.65V you are good. And that should be a no fear situation, because you use 1.5V memory (right?). OR simply, it was some cheap excuse to not cover you. If it was not the memory, they'll probably tell you that you didn't use Intel official heatsink, or Intel own motherboard or some potato like that.
Yes I use 1.5V however my 1600 MHz is rated for 1.6V. Intel said they will process this RMA but advised me on not using 1600 MHz. Why did I buy this if I cant use it's full power? Or can I
Everything was overclocked... but you don't have to overclock anything. The retail chips have unlocked memory dividers... I just selected 1600MHz from from the BIOS manually, or you can just select XMP and it sets it.
On a 1366 i7? Sure, of course you should. Just read this first, and pay attention to the bit about QPI/Incore voltages. Keep them within 0.5v of CPU VCore volts and you're fine.
Cool, thanks. I didn't even think that it would possibly be an issue. What about the people using 1866 and above?
With the second gen Core i series, you should have no problem with 1600MHz, just set the XMP profile, and you should be good to go. If you want faster memory you need to do some overclocking. In my case with the first gen Core i series, XMP boost my CPU to support 1333MHz. Now if I overclock, I can easily go to 1600MHz, so I have that room, without overclocking my memory beyond what the manufacture designed frequencies.
