Older DDR3 memory often requires higher voltages than the default 1.5V specified by JEDEC, the governing body of computer memory standards. Memory sticks often contain a voltage specified on the sticker, indicating the voltage necessary for the memory to work at the specified frequency.. For example, a Kingston HyperX kit that was purchased 2-3 years ago is designed to work with the Intel Nehalem architecture at 1600MHz, and requires 1.65v.

Enthusiast systems often do not have problems running these memories because the enthusiast boards have plenty of adjustments, from memory timings to voltage adjustments, all of which help users fine-tune their systems. However, budget boards and pre-built systems like Dell and HP often have a limited number of adjustments. Thus, users try to install memory modules that require higher voltages, the motherboard may not support it at the specified clockspeed and timing.