My motherboard supports 2666Mhz ram speed, but it is downclocking it to 2400Mhz.

[NavyFlexX]

My motherboard supports 2666Mhz ram speed, but it is downclocking it to 2400Mhz.

My setup is a prebuilt HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop 790-0038no, with 8gb ram. However, when I installed new Kingston FURY Beast 16GB (2x8GB) 3600MHz DDR4 CL17, my PC has downclocked it to not 2666Mhz, but 2400Mhz. 

Is there any way of fixing it/ overclocking the ram, even if it is HP prebuilt setup (Cuz I do not have a option in bios to do so). 

[Nal_NR]

Hi @NavyFlexX,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd be glad to help you! 

In many prebuilt systems like the HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop 790-0038no, BIOS options for adjusting RAM speed, voltage, or timings are often locked down, making it difficult to manually overclock RAM or change its speed beyond the system's default settings. The issue you're facing, where your RAM is running at 2400MHz instead of the supported 2666MHz, is common with OEM motherboards that automatically downclock RAM to ensure system stability.

Here are some steps and considerations you can take to address this issue:

1. Verify Current BIOS Settings and Updates

• Check for BIOS Updates: Visit the HP Support website and look for any available BIOS updates for your HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop 790-0038no. BIOS updates can sometimes include better memory compatibility or performance improvements.
• BIOS Access: Double-check the BIOS settings for any hidden or obscure options related to RAM settings. On some HP motherboards, options might be hidden under an advanced tab, but it's not common.

2. Enable XMP Profile (if possible)

• Check for XMP in BIOS: If your BIOS has an option for XMP (Extreme Memory Profile), enabling it can automatically set your RAM to the highest rated speed and timings. However, in most HP prebuilts, this feature is typically disabled or unavailable.
• Advanced BIOS Unlocking: In some rare cases, advanced BIOS features can be unlocked through key combinations or third-party tools, but this is risky and can void warranties or potentially brick your system.

3. Use Software-Based Overclocking Tools

• Intel XTU (Extreme Tuning Utility): If your system uses an Intel CPU, Intel XTU might allow limited tweaking of RAM settings, though it's often restricted by the motherboard's firmware in OEM systems.
• CPU-Z and Monitoring Tools: Use tools like CPU-Z to confirm the actual RAM speed and timings in real-time. Sometimes, Windows or other software may misreport RAM speeds.

Please find the remaining steps in the next post.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.

[Nal_NR]

Hi @NavyFlexX ,

Please find the remaining steps below.

4. RAM Compatibility and Limits

• Check SPD Profiles: Use CPU-Z or other tools to check the SPD (Serial Presence Detect) profiles of your Kingston FURY Beast RAM. These profiles dictate what speeds the RAM can operate at automatically without manual intervention.
• Default Settings: The motherboard may default to a safer JEDEC standard of 2400MHz, which is common for compatibility reasons, especially in OEM systems.

5. Alternative Approaches

• Replace with Compatible RAM: If the specific Kingston RAM you're using is not fully compatible with the motherboard’s allowed speeds, consider replacing it with a module explicitly certified for 2666MHz operation with your motherboard. Check HP's documentation or forums for known compatible models.
• Third-Party BIOS Mods: Advanced users sometimes resort to custom BIOS modifications to unlock features, but this is highly risky and not recommended unless you're comfortable with the potential risks, including voiding warranties or damaging your system.

6. Revert to Original RAM for Stability

• If stability becomes an issue, consider reverting to the original RAM configuration that was set by HP, or use a set of RAM known to work at 2666MHz without modification.

Unfortunately, due to the locked-down nature of most prebuilt systems from OEMs, there are limited options for RAM overclocking or manual speed adjustments. If the steps above do not help, running the RAM at 2400MHz may be the most stable and supported configuration. Reach out to HP phone support.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”.