MSI updated BIOS firmware for Intel Z890 motherboards to push Chinese CXMT DDR5 modules beyond the 8000 MT/s barrier. This matters because CXMT memory has been a key option for value-conscious builders during the current supply crisis, and higher speeds improve system responsiveness. Buyers with compatible hardware can now access performance levels that were previously out of reach for these cost-effective sticks.
MSI firmware update enables higher memory speeds on Intel Z890 boards
The update targets two specific Intel Z890 board models from MSI. The high-end MEG Z890 UNIFY-X achieved DDR5-8600 speeds using a 48GB kit made of two 24GB CXMT DIMMs. The more accessible PRO Z890-S WIFI reached DDR5-8200 speeds with a 32GB kit consisting of two 16GB CXMT modules.
Spec comparison
| Spec | MEG Z890 UNIFY-X | PRO Z890-S WIFI |
|---|---|---|
| Memory Speed | DDR5-8600 | DDR5-8200 |
| Kit Size | 48GB (2x24GB) | 32GB (2x16GB) |
| Timings | 46-56-56-134 | 44-56-56-132 |
MSI validated these speeds with specific timing profiles for each configuration. The 48GB setup on the UNIFY-X ran at 46-56-56-134 timings. The 32GB setup on the PRO Z890-S WIFI operated at 44-56-56-132 timings. Both motherboard configurations passed MemTest stress testing with flying colors according to MSI.
Users can enable these optimized profiles through MSI's MEMORY TRY IT feature. This is the company's easy overclocking tool that simplifies the process of applying the new BIOS settings. We touched on MSI Adds HUDIMM DDR5 Support to in our earlier Msi coverage, showing their continued focus on memory compatibility.
MSI confirmed that these firmware updates allow CXMT memory to hit new performance heights on their latest Intel platforms. The update provides a practical way to extract more speed from existing hardware without buying new components.
Source: TweakTown
