Enable XMP or EXPO in BIOS

Introduction

If your CLX PC includes memory with an advertised speed higher than the system's default memory speed, you may need to enable XMP or EXPO in BIOS to run the RAM at its rated specifications.

XMP is commonly used on Intel systems, while EXPO is commonly used on AMD systems. This guide explains how to enable the appropriate memory profile, verify the change, and troubleshoot the system if it becomes unstable afterward.

Before you begin

Before enabling XMP or EXPO:

• Confirm whether your system uses an Intel or AMD processor.
• Check the advertised speed and specifications of your memory kit.
• Make sure the PC is fully shut down before entering BIOS.
• Do not manually change memory voltage, timings, or other advanced settings unless instructed by CLX Support.

How to enable XMP or EXPO

1. Restart your CLX PC and enter BIOS during startup. Press the BIOS key shown on screen, such as Delete or F2, as soon as the system begins to power on.
2. Locate the memory profile setting in BIOS. On Intel systems, look for XMP. On AMD systems, look for EXPO.
3. Enable the available profile. If multiple profiles are available, select the one that matches the advertised specifications of your memory kit.
4. Save your changes and exit BIOS. The system will restart with the new memory settings applied.
5. The first restart after enabling XMP or EXPO may take longer than usual, and the system may restart more than once while the memory is being trained. This can be normal.
6. Once Windows loads, check the memory speed in Task Manager > Performance > Memory, or return to BIOS to verify the memory settings.

Understanding memory speed

The memory speed shown in Windows may not always match the advertised number on your RAM kit. DDR memory is commonly advertised using its data-transfer rate, while some system tools may display the actual memory clock frequency.

For example, a DDR5 kit advertised as 6000 MT/s may appear as approximately 3000 MHz in some monitoring tools. This does not necessarily mean the memory is running at half speed.

If the system becomes unstable

If the PC experiences crashes, boot loops, failed starts, or other instability after enabling XMP or EXPO:

1. Return to BIOS.
2. Disable XMP or EXPO or restore the memory settings to their previous defaults.
3. Save the changes and restart the PC.
4. If the system continues to experience problems, contact CLX Support for further diagnosis.

Do not manually increase memory voltage or change memory timings unless instructed by CLX Support.

Tips and best practices

• Use the memory profile that matches your RAM's advertised specifications.
• Avoid changing additional BIOS settings unless necessary.
• Keep your BIOS updated if CLX Support recommends a newer version for memory compatibility.
• Test the system with normal use after enabling XMP or EXPO before making any additional BIOS changes.

Next steps

If your CLX PC remains stable after enabling XMP or EXPO, no further action is normally required.

If you experience crashes, boot loops, failed starts, or other instability, return the memory settings to their defaults and contact CLX Support for assistance.

Contact support

If you need help enabling XMP or EXPO, or if your system becomes unstable after changing memory settings, contact CLX Support through your standard support channel. Be ready to provide your system model, memory kit details, and any error messages or symptoms you are experiencing.

Disclaimer

BIOS settings can affect system stability and performance. XMP and EXPO profiles apply memory settings that may cause instability depending on the specific hardware configuration. If you are unsure about a BIOS setting or your system becomes unstable after enabling a memory profile, return the settings to their defaults and contact CLX Support before making additional changes.