how to enable amd smart access memory

3 min read 31-01-2025

AMD Smart Access Memory (SAM) is a technology that allows your CPU to access all of your GPU's VRAM. This can result in significant performance improvements in games and other applications. Enabling SAM is relatively straightforward, but it does require a few steps. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you get the most out of your AMD hardware.

What is AMD Smart Access Memory?

Before we dive into enabling SAM, let's briefly understand what it does. Traditionally, the CPU has limited access to the GPU's VRAM. SAM removes this limitation, allowing the CPU to access the entire VRAM pool. This improves data transfer speeds and reduces bottlenecks, leading to higher frame rates and better performance, especially in graphically demanding tasks.

System Requirements for AMD Smart Access Memory

Before you begin, make sure your system meets the following requirements:

AMD Ryzen 5000 Series CPU: SAM requires a processor from AMD's Ryzen 5000 series (or newer). Older Ryzen processors are not compatible.
AMD Radeon RX 6000 Series GPU or RX 6000M Series Mobile GPU: You'll need a compatible graphics card. Older Radeon cards won't work with SAM.
Compatible Motherboard with BIOS Support: Your motherboard needs to have a BIOS that supports AMD Smart Access Memory. Check your motherboard manufacturer's website for BIOS updates. This is crucial—without BIOS support, SAM won't work.
Windows 10 2004 or Later: SAM requires a relatively recent version of Windows 10 or Windows 11.

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

Step 1: Update your BIOS

This is the most crucial step. An outdated BIOS will almost certainly lack SAM support. Visit your motherboard manufacturer's website (e.g., ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte) and download the latest BIOS update for your specific motherboard model. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully for updating your BIOS. This process varies depending on the motherboard manufacturer. Be extremely careful during a BIOS update. A failed update can render your motherboard unusable.

Step 2: Update your Graphics Drivers

Ensure you have the latest AMD Adrenalin Edition graphics drivers installed. You can download these from the AMD website. Using outdated drivers can prevent SAM from working correctly or cause instability.

Step 3: Enable SAM in the BIOS

Once your BIOS is updated, you'll need to enable SAM within the BIOS settings. The exact location and wording may vary depending on your motherboard, but it's usually found under settings related to advanced CPU features, chipset settings, or similar. Look for options like:

AMD SAM
Smart Access Memory
Resizable BAR (This is a related technology that often needs enabling alongside SAM)

Enable these options and save the BIOS settings. Your computer will likely restart.

Step 4: Verify SAM is Enabled (Optional but Recommended)

After restarting, you can verify that SAM is enabled in a couple of ways:

AMD Adrenalin Software: Open the AMD Adrenalin software. It should indicate whether SAM is enabled or not. The specific location may differ slightly based on your Adrenalin version, but look for a system information or display settings section.
Third-Party Monitoring Tools: Several third-party applications can display system information, including whether SAM is enabled. HWMonitor is a popular and free option.

Step 5: Test Your Performance

After enabling SAM, run your games and benchmark applications to see if you experience performance improvements. The increase can be noticeable but varies depending on your system configuration and the specific game.

Troubleshooting AMD Smart Access Memory Issues

If you encounter problems enabling or using SAM, here are some common troubleshooting steps:

Double-check BIOS settings: Make absolutely sure you saved the changes in your BIOS after enabling SAM.
Reinstall graphics drivers: Sometimes a clean driver installation can resolve issues.
Check for BIOS updates: Even if you've updated recently, check for newer BIOS versions.
Ensure compatibility: Confirm that your CPU, GPU, and motherboard are all officially supported.
Consult your motherboard manual: The manual often provides specific instructions for enabling advanced features.
Check Windows updates: Ensure your Windows operating system is up-to-date.

By carefully following these steps, you can unlock the performance potential of your AMD system with AMD Smart Access Memory. Remember to always back up your BIOS settings before making any changes. And if you encounter any significant issues, don't hesitate to seek further assistance from your motherboard or AMD support.