DDR Memory Timings

[balbert908]

Hi all,

I had a question about memory timings. I read this site everyday and learned all I have about overclocking here. I still consider myself somewhat of a newcomer though. I acheived the results I have now by setting my memory timings to auto and turbo. I didn't no where to begin with the individual timings. 2,3,2....etc. Can someone explain to me how these timings work and how they can improve my performance further. Thanks in advance.

[josi]

The most important timings for DDR RAM, which can affect performance a lot, are RAS-to-CAS delay (tRCD) and CAS Latency. Keep them as low a possible. For first time, set your memory timings to Turbo and write down all values. Then set memory timings to Manual, and enter the same timings as for Turbo mode. After that try to lower one timing at the time and test your system for stability using Memtest86, Prime95 and 3DMark 2001/2003

[balbert908]

Originally posted by josi
The most important timings for DDR RAM, which can affect performance a lot, are RAS-to-CAS delay (tRCD) and CAS Latency. Keep them as low a possible. For first time, set your memory timings to Turbo and write down all values. Then set memory timings to Manual, and enter the same timings as for Turbo mode. After that try to lower one timing at the time and test your system for stability using Memtest86, Prime95 and 3DMark 2001/2003

Great. Thanks. So basically I've started out correctly. What about DDR voltages? What is standard and what is safe? Thanks.

[josi]

Standard voltage for DDR memory up to DDR400 is 2.5V. For me safe voltage is +10% or a bit more if the memory has heat spreaders.