Nvme SSD running at Pcie 3.0 x2 instead of x4...

[JerryML]

Hi

The nvme ssd is not using the max lane width for some reason. Still x2.There was no option in bios to work with since its a prebuilt. I don't know what is going on if the NVME drive installed supports x4. 

[Nal_NR]

Hi @JerryML,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd be glad to help you! 

If your HP 15.6-inch Laptop PC 15-fc0000 is running an NVMe SSD at PCIe 3.0 x2 instead of the full x4 lanes, there are a few possible reasons for this, including hardware limitations, BIOS settings, or system configuration. Here's a step-by-step guide to troubleshoot and potentially resolve this issue:

1. Check SSD Specifications

• Confirm that your installed NVMe SSD indeed supports PCIe 3.0 x4. You can usually find this information on the manufacturer's website or on the SSD label.
• Use tools like CrystalDiskInfo or HWiNFO to verify the actual capabilities of your SSD and what lanes it is currently using.

2. Verify Motherboard and Slot Capabilities

• Check Laptop Specifications: Some laptop models have slots that only support PCIe 3.0 x2 even if the SSD supports x4. Verify the laptop's motherboard or SSD slot specifications on HP's official site or in the user manual.
• Hardware Limitation: If the slot only supports x2, there won't be a software or BIOS fix.

3. BIOS/UEFI Settings

• While you mentioned there's no option in BIOS, double-check under advanced settings or boot options:
  • Look for NVMe Configuration or PCIe Slot Configuration.
  • Check if there’s a setting for PCIe Lane Configuration, which might default to a lower setting for power saving.

4. Update BIOS/UEFI Firmware

• Check for BIOS Updates: Go to the HP Support site and enter your laptop's model number to check for BIOS updates.
• Install the Latest BIOS Update: If an update is available, download and install it, as newer versions may unlock or adjust PCIe lane configurations.

5. Check Power Settings

• Ensure that your laptop is set to High-Performance mode in Windows:
  • Go to Settings > System > Power & Sleep > Additional Power Settings and select High Performance.
• This can sometimes affect how PCIe devices operate by prioritizing performance over power saving.

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 @JerryML,

Please find the remaining steps below.

6. Check for Driver Updates

• Update your NVMe SSD drivers:
  • Go to Device Manager > Disk Drives > Right-click on your NVMe SSD > Update Driver.
  • You can also check the SSD manufacturer's website for specific NVMe drivers that may optimize performance.

7. Re-seat the SSD

• Power off your laptop, remove the back cover, and gently re-seat the NVMe SSD to ensure it’s fully and properly connected. Occasionally, a poor connection can cause reduced performance.

8. Check OS and System Configuration

• Verify Windows Settings: Ensure your operating system isn't limiting PCIe bandwidth for power saving. In Windows, there’s usually no direct setting that affects this, but confirming no power-saving mode is enabled is important.
• Clean Boot: Booting your system with minimal drivers and services can rule out software interference.

9. Test with Another NVMe SSD (if possible)

• If you have access to another NVMe SSD known to support x4, testing it in your laptop can help determine if the issue is specific to your current SSD.

These steps should help determine why your NVMe SSD isn't running at the expected PCIe x4 speed and hopefully lead to a resolution.

If none of the above steps resolve the issue, contact HP Phone Support for further assistance. 

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”.