Softpedia >News >Technology & Gadgets >Memory
Softpedia Homepage   

Don't Use DDR3 at Default Voltages As It May Fry Your Precious "Skylake"

Don't spare money when planning to go Skylake

Sep 29, 2015 09:28 GMT  ·  By
DDR4 should be the go to DRAM module once your getting a Skylake
   DDR4 should be the go to DRAM module once your getting a Skylake

There is a reason why the new "Skylake" chipsets come with a new DDR4 and DDR3L memory standards only. Although there are motherboard manufacturers that support even DDR3 memory modules, Intel says that a prolonged usage of such DRAM models will damage your CPU.

The reason behind this is the inherent high-voltage the old DDR3 modules come with by default. A DDR4 memory module comes with a default voltage of 1.2V, whereas DDR3L memory modules have 1.35V power supply voltage. Pretty low compared to a default, power munching DDR3 module that eats 1.5V, while some enthusiast-class DRAM chips can reach even 1.65V supply voltage.

As you know, DDR3 and DDR3L (from Low Voltage) are compatible and in extremis DDR3 modules are technically compatible with the "Skylake" processors. However, use a default 1.5 voltage module, or God forbid, an enthusiast 1.65V version and you'll probably fry that precious Skylake in no time, according to a Tom's Hardware news piece.

The manufacturers could get you in trouble themselves

The main problem is, however, that major manufacturers like ASRock and Gigabyte sell motherboards that boast in supporting "Skylake" CPUs in Z170 derivative chipsets, like H170, that allow installing DD3 modules. That's all fine and dandy until it damages your central processing unit beyond repairs.

This is a serious corporate issue that must be addressed, since manufacturers either didn't know of such a damaging effect on the long run or they simply ignored it hoping to attract budget gamers or enthusiasts wishing for a low-price system update without needing to buy new DRAM modules together with a new motherboard.

Also, even if the DDR3 will work on an LGA 1151 motherboard, it is very likely that, under stress, the memory controller could give in after a while and your memory will stop working.

So, to sum it up, if you plan to buy a new "Skylake" CPU, which currently stands as the best single-threaded CPU out there, and you lack the funds, make sure that at least you find some money to buy some DDR3Ls which are a tad cheaper than the DDR4. If you plan, however, to make the switch properly, go ahead and get yourself some DDR4 and witness how your world changes.