HP Elitebook RAM running lower frequency values than hardware possible (factory setting)

[Robosk]

Ok, so firstly is it possible to reinstall new BIOS (not HP BIOS) which would allow such change?

I still cant believe that I paid HP to purchase hardware that is not fully utilized!! Honestyl, I feel that I have been ripped off here!

Secondly, what will happen if I buy another peace of 4GB RAM? Will it run dual channel? Is it even allowed to run so? Can I then change the frequency, because dual 666MHz is not equal to dual 1 333MHz.

[JonathanLV · Accepted solution]

Since your ram stick is a Double Data Rate (DDR3) like any other ram sticks of today, its true frequency will always show 2 times less.  What you are seeing is correct.   In the past, SDRam was transferring 1 data at each clock, with DDR ram, 2 data are transfered at each clock (hz), so performance is doubled = equivalent to double the frequency.  Dual channel will accelerate ram transfer by using the two sticks at the same time but you will always see 666mhz in cpu-z.

Having build many gaming computers, when I set the frequency in the bios at the correct one, it always show 2x less, do not worry !!   PS.  I have 1600mhz DDR3 sticks and CPU-z show 801.3 mhz. 

ALSO, if you are upgrading your ram, for them to work in dual channel, be sure to buy a stick of the same size (4GB), frequency (1333mhz), timing (9 - 9 - 9 - 24) and voltage (1.50 V).  Those should be easy to find.  It's always best to buy in matched kit of two since they are tested to be operating exactly the same, as there may be manufacturing difference between brands and models, but it should not matter much if those 4 parameters are the same.  If you buy a lower frequency stick, the other will adjust to the slower one.  If possible, buy one of the same brand to be absolubly sure they match ( Samsung M471B5273DH0-CH9)

The BIOS *could* be reflashed to a non hp one compatible with your motherboard but there are many high risks in doing so, up to a unusuable computer (motherboard would need to be taken off and would need a new BIOS chip, reprogrammed chip probably soldered  or a new motherboard).  This is what tells the computer parts how to operate with each other.  Also your computer will be out of warranty.  You do not need it either since your ram works as intended.

Lots of information here :  http://www.hardwaresecrets.com/article/Everything-You-Need-To-Know-About-DDR-DDR2-and-DDR3-Memories/...

And here:  http://www.hardwaresecrets.com/article/Everything-You-Need-to-Know-About-the-Dual-Triple-and-Quad-Ch...

[Robosk]

Thank you JonathanLV! Your answer is supported with great arguments and addtional links which broaden my knowledge.

Much appreciated your solution. I will buy another stick of RAM (the same type).

[JonathanLV]

It's my pleasure, be sure to check how many slots do you have in Cpu-z, SPD menu, Memory slot selection.   I don't know about this specific model.  If you see a second memory slot, you will be able to install another.  Just to be sure as some laptops has only one slot.  Since this is a elitebook I suppose you will have a second one if not more.