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DRAM Frequency: What is it & How to Properly Set It Up
Increasing DRAM frequency is risky
4 min. read
Updated onOctober 17, 2023
updated onOctober 17, 2023
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Key notes
DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) is thememory your computer usesto manage its running tasks. The DRAM frequency, on the other hand, denotes the percentage of data that can be transferred per second on your PC’s data wire.
This parameter holds a lot of importance, and you need to know how to manage it properly. In this guide, we will delve into everything you need to know about DRAM frequency and how to set it up.
What is DRAM Frequency?
As mentioned earlier, the DRAM frequency denotes the percentage of data that can be transferred per second on your PC’s data wire. It is usually half the speed ofRandom Access Memory.
This is so because of the DDR (Double Data Rate) clock, which allows you to transfer data twice per cycle instead of the usual one. With this, you will have the double frequency needed.
Is increasing DRAM frequency safe?
Increasing your DRAM frequency is risky, and experts warn against doing it. You should leave it alone unless there is a dire need to increase it. And if it is needed, it should only be done by an expert.
Another option will be to use Intel’s XMP technology. With this tool, your RAM will always run at the factory pre-set frequency. This setting should be enough to meet your PC requirements.
Also, if you are wondering if you should set DRAM frequency to the highest, you should never do that. This is because while you might get a marginal performance benefit, the risk of damage to your PC is incredibly high.
How to check DRAM Frequency?
1. Use CMD
After the command finish running, you will find your RAM speed and DRAM frequency listed there.
2. Use CPU-Z
If you don’t want to use the built-in option to check the parameter, you can use a trusted third-party app. This app will also display other important PC parameters, and it can help you monitor your PC resources.
How can I change my DRAM frequency?
With this, you should be able to change your DRAM frequency without issues. This is especially useful if you are overclocking your PC, as it will help your RAM meet the requirements.
It is advisable to choose profile 1 as it is stable and should meet the requirement of RAM. This is because increasing the voltage unnecessarily can cause serious damage to your PC.
What value should I set DRAM frequency to?
Your RAM’s maximum permitted speed determines the maximum speed you can set your DRAM frequency to. So, you can set the DRAM speed to the maximum permitted speed of your RAM.
In cases where the maximum speed of your RAM is too much for your CPU, you will need to set it to the resonant speed of your CPU. If increasing the frequency causes any problems, you can change it back to 1333 MHz.
You should also keep the voltage at 1.5V to prevent further issues. Increasing it above this poses more risks than benefits. While at it, below the DRAM frequency ranges by RAM generations:
For DDR6, there is no official frequency range released yet. But that should be done soon.
With this, we can conclude this detailed guide on everything you need to know about the DRAM frequency. This can be useful, especially ifWindows 11 is showing the wrong RAM speedon your PC.
If you want to knowwhat DCOP does, check our guide for trusted information.
Let us know if you encounter any problems with this feature in the comments below.
More about the topics:RAM
Ola-Hassan Bolaji
Windows Hardware Expert
A Computer Engineering graduate, he has spent most of his life reading and writing about computers.
He finds joy in simplifying complex topics into simple solutions for PC users. The quality of his work and providing step-wise tested and proven solutions to PC issues are all that matter to him.
Away from computers, he is either reading or watching football!
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Ola-Hassan Bolaji
Windows Hardware Expert
He’s a Computer Engineering graduate who has spent most of his life reading and writing about computers & operating systems.