Question 1

It's my first time building a PC in a long time. I want to make sure I pick up the proper memory to go with this chip. The specs here say this chip supports DDR4 2667, but I see people in comments talking about running memory @3200mhz? Can someone explain this to me? So I can get memory faster than what the chip calls for?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, the official memory speeds listed in specifications are slightly slower than what can be run with a CPU.
If this was a true Zen 1 chip, 2933 or maybe 3000 was about the highest you could go. Being this is the 1600AF, it's essentially a Zen+ chip because it's made on the same process node as Zen+. Zen+ could run memory speeds reliably at 3000 - 3200. 3200 was the sweet spot for Zen+.
So, I would say look for memory that is at least 3000 and 3200 if you can find a good deal. The difference between 3000 and 3200 isn't a lot, to be honest. There is a measurable difference, but it might be a few FPS in games. You can always get 3200 memory and if it doesn't run reliably, just run it at 3000 speeds.
Also, check your motherboard's QVL list for memory. This is a list of tested and verified memory by the manufacturer that is guaranteed to work. For Zen and Zen+, this was more important as memory was a bit more finnecky.

Question 2

Does the included cpu cooler already have thermal paste on it or do I have to buy separately?

Accepted Answer

Why yes it does. However if you plan on overclocking you may want to buy your own.

Question 3

Does this have a 4 pin cpu power connection?

Accepted Answer

No. Sounds like your question is actually related to motherboards. All socket am4 motherboards will have either 4 4 pin, 4+4, 6 or 8 pin power connection. This however is a nice cpu for the price just as long as you pair it with a motherboard that supports gen 3 ryzen cpus. Also pairs really well with gskill ram

Question 4

I have an older motherboard. Brought the PC back from the dead, but needs upgrading. I currently have and Asus\Foxconn motherboard that uses AM3 CPU socket. Does that mean this wont fit?

Accepted Answer

The Ryzen 1600AF is an AMD4 socket. So no, won't work. You need a cpu for AM3. Look for a Phenom II. You can find them in up to 6 cores. But last I checked, they were still $$. Even AM4 is nearing EOL with only 1 more cpu planed for it. The up coming Ryzen 3+. After that it will be another new socket. So don't spend too much on a Phenom II. You want to go with something newer when the cpu shortages subside, if they do.....

Question 5

Win 7 compatible?

Accepted Answer

You can get it to run but its going to take some work to get the necessary chip-set drivers for things such as USB 3.0 support   
You my want to do a search on youtube for "Installing WINDOWS 7 On An AMD RYZEN PC" for a walk through

Question 6

Whats the best budget 8x2gb 3200 ram kit that would work with this processor?

Accepted Answer

I'm not sure about 8x2gb, but if you mean 2 sticks of 8gb, I would recommend G.Skill, as I have a kit working in an MSI B450i motherboard with the Ryzen 5 1600 AF processor. Team Group or Crucial are also good brands that I looked into. You will need to check with the manufacturer of your motherboard for a compatible version, but one of those three brands will more than likely have a kit that will work for your needs.

Question 7

i have a 2gb pci express video card , will i have any issues putting this in my rig? i believe the card is pcie 2.0.

Accepted Answer

You shouldn't have any issue what motherboard do you have that is what matters.If your motherboard has a Am4 socket you should be fine. you probably want ddr4 ram as well.

Question 8

Will this processor work with MSI Performance Gaming AMD Ryzen 1st and 2nd Gen AM4 M.2 USB 3 DDR4 Mini-ITX out of the box ?

Accepted Answer

All AM4 motherboards support this processor. It is identified as 1st gen ryzen even though the internals are 2nd gen at a lower speed.

Question 9

Is this the ryzen 5 1600af?

Accepted Answer

The corresponding item entry on neweggbusiness indicates Item#: 274-003V-00043 is an "AF" box code. Don't see why they couldn't copy paste that description here? Ordered it on the assumption it is "AF" based on neweggbusiness product page.

Question 10

Is it suited for virtual reality?

Accepted Answer

The Ryzen 5 1600X will  do 100 FPS, the  Ryzen 5 1600 won't

Questions & Answers