DRAM Ratio H/W Strap

Common Options : High, Low, By CPU

Quick Review

This BIOS feature allows you to circumvent the CPU-to-DRAM ratio limitation found in the newer Intel i845-series of chipsets. In those chipsets, Intel has chosen to limit the choices of available CPU-to-DRAM ratios.

When a 400MHz FSB processor is installed, the choices of CPU-to-DRAM ratio are limited to 1:1 or 3:4.

When a 533MHz FSB processor is installed, the choices of CPU-to-DRAM ratio are limited to 1:1 or 4:5.

Fortunately, this BIOS feature allows you to circumvent that limitation.

The DRAM Ratio H/W Strap BIOS feature actually controls the setting of the external hardware reset strap assigned to the MCH (Memory Controller Hub) of the chipset. By setting it High or Low, you can trick the chipset into thinking that the 400MHz FSB or the 533MHz FSB is being used.

When this BIOS feature is set to High, you will be able to access the 533MHz CPU-to-DRAM ratios of 1:1 and 4:5.

When this BIOS feature is set to Low, you will be able to access the 400MHz CPU-to-DRAM ratios of 1:1 and 3:4.

By default, this BIOS feature is set to By CPU, whereby the hardware strap will be set according to the actual FSB rating of the processor.

Generally, you do not need to manually adjust the hardware strap setting. But if you require access to the CPU-to-DRAM ratio that would normally not be available to you, then this BIOS feature would be very helpful indeed.

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support out work by visiting our sponsors, participate in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donate to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!