Modder more than doubles Asus ROG Xbox Ally X's memory with massive 64GB RAM upgrade — advanced soldering and BIOS modification unlock more capacity

The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X, Microsoft’s first Xbox-branded gaming handheld, comes with 24GB of LPDDR5X memory, which is more than adequate for most use cases in this category. However, for users who want more headroom or plan to use the handheld as a hybrid portable desktop replacement, SlickBuys Mods and Repairs has successfully upgraded the system to a massive 64GB of RAM. This is the same modder who previously demonstrated their skills on the original ROG Ally by upgrading its memory from 16GB to 32GB.

In a detailed video, the modder has showcased the entire process of replacing the soldered 6GB Micron LPDDR5X 8533 MT/s memory packages with higher-density 16GB SK Hynix LPDDR5X modules. The process involves completely dismantling the ROG Xbox Ally X by undoing a bunch of screws to remove the back panel, followed by carefully removing the internal components, including the battery, SSD, joysticks, heatsink, and a bunch of ribbon cables.

After gaining full access to the motherboard, the modder begins preparing the new memory modules by desoldering them from a custom PCB they were shipped with and reballing each memory chip. The stock 24GB memory modules are then removed from the ROG Xbox Ally X motherboard with a heat gun, along with any solder residue. The new modules are then placed and soldered onto the motherboard.

Once the new memory modules are installed, the next step is to modify the BIOS so it can properly recognize the newly installed RAM. The original BIOS chip is removed, and the APCB file is edited with a bunch of values using a CH341A USB programmer. The BIOS chip is then soldered back onto the motherboard, followed by moving two strap resistors to ensure that the newly installed memory chips run at their maximum clock speeds. The modder then reassembles all the components, and after booting into the system, we can see that the Windows Task Manager indicates 64GB of installed memory.

Unfortunately, the modder has not shared any performance benefits post the memory upgrade, nor do they mention the entire cost for this mod. Considering the $300 32GB memory upgrade previously done on the original ROG Ally, along with today's highly volatile DRAM market, we wouldn’t be surprised if it is upwards of $500, which is almost half the cost of the gaming handheld.

While this mod is exciting, it’s important to note that upgrading soldered memory is not easy, even if it may look straightforward. The process requires specialized tools, skills, and knowledge, and even if one manages to replace the chips successfully, modifying the BIOS and the risk of damaging the motherboard make such mods impractical for most users.

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