how to enable smart access memory

Daniel Parker

3 min read

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21-01-2025

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Smart Access Memory (SAM) is a technology that significantly boosts gaming performance by allowing the CPU to access all of the GPU's VRAM. This results in smoother gameplay and higher frame rates. But how do you enable this performance boost? This guide will walk you through the process, covering different scenarios and troubleshooting common issues.

What is Smart Access Memory?

Before we dive into enabling SAM, let's briefly understand what it is. Smart Access Memory is a technology that improves communication between your CPU and GPU. Traditionally, the CPU has limited access to the GPU's video memory (VRAM). SAM bridges this gap, allowing the CPU to access the entire VRAM pool. This increases the amount of data the GPU can process at once, leading to better performance, particularly in games.

System Requirements for Smart Access Memory

Not every system can use SAM. To leverage SAM's benefits, you need:

• An AMD Ryzen 5000 series CPU (or later): SAM is not supported on older Ryzen processors.
• An AMD Radeon RX 6000 series GPU (or later): Similarly, older Radeon cards aren't compatible.
• A compatible motherboard BIOS: Your motherboard's BIOS must support SAM. Check your motherboard manufacturer's website for updates.
• Windows 10 2004 or later (or Windows 11): Ensure your operating system is up-to-date.

How to Enable Smart Access Memory: A Step-by-Step Guide

Enabling SAM involves updating your BIOS and then enabling the feature within the BIOS settings. Here's a general guide; the exact steps might vary slightly depending on your motherboard manufacturer.

Step 1: Update your BIOS

This is crucial. Visit your motherboard manufacturer's website (e.g., ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte) and download the latest BIOS update for your specific motherboard model. Carefully follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Updating your BIOS incorrectly can damage your system, so proceed with caution.

Step 2: Access your BIOS settings

Restart your computer. As it boots up, you'll need to press a specific key to enter the BIOS settings. This key is usually Delete, F2, F10, F12, or Esc, but it varies depending on your motherboard. Check your motherboard's manual or the screen during startup for instructions.

Step 3: Locate and enable SAM

Once in the BIOS, navigate to the advanced settings section. The exact name of the SAM setting varies depending on the motherboard manufacturer. Look for options like:

• Resizable BAR: This is often the term used for SAM in BIOS settings.
• Re-Size BAR Support: Another common name for the setting.
• Above 4G Decoding: Although related, this isn't always synonymous with SAM and may need to be enabled separately.

Enable the option. Save the changes and exit the BIOS. Your computer will restart.

Step 4: Verify SAM is enabled

After restarting, you can verify SAM is working correctly using various methods:

• AMD Adrenalin Software: Open the AMD Adrenalin software (your graphics card control panel). The SAM status should be clearly indicated.
• GPU-Z: This free utility provides detailed information about your graphics card, including whether Re-sizable BAR (SAM) is enabled.

Troubleshooting Common Smart Access Memory Issues

If you encounter problems, consider these troubleshooting steps:

• Check for BIOS updates: Make sure you have the latest BIOS version that supports SAM.
• Ensure correct driver installation: Install the latest AMD graphics drivers.
• Verify CPU and GPU compatibility: Double-check that your CPU and GPU are compatible with SAM.
• Check your Windows version: Make sure you're running Windows 10 2004 or later (or Windows 11).

Conclusion

Enabling Smart Access Memory can provide a noticeable performance boost in compatible systems. By following these steps and troubleshooting potential issues, you can unlock the full potential of your AMD Ryzen and Radeon setup. Remember to always back up your data before making BIOS changes. Enjoy the enhanced gaming experience!