Difference between non ecc & ecc ram

[rakone]

Hello, I have a question what is the difference between ecc ram & non ecc ram?

Thanks

 

[franklin97355]

ecc ram will correct some errors automatically non-ecc won't

 

[rakone]

That's what I had read do you know if it's a lot better than non-ecc ram?

 

[ceh4702]

ECC RAM is used more for servers. It costs more and is not always supported on desktop motherboards. It is preferrable to check the manufacturer before purchasing RAM. Some sellers of RAM do testing and some do not. It is best to deal with a website where the manufacturer of the RAM has a compatability list for their RAM. I sometimes go to the

http://www.crucial.com

website, write down the recommended part numbers, and then go to other sites to purchase it. This insures compatability.

Often the manufacturer of the motherboard will also test their motherboard and post a recommended list of RAM modules made by various manufacturers.

If you do not like my post feel free to point out your opinion or my errors.

 

[cdogg]

Also, you cannot mix ECC RAM with non-ECC RAM. So, if you're looking to add additional RAM to your PC, make sure they match!

Unless you're running a server or housing a very large database, chances are the need for ECC RAM is small. You won't notice any difference running the average desktop application.




~cdogg

"The secret to creativity is knowing how to hide your sources."
- A. Einstein

 

[roderickom]

Our server line uses ECC exclusively unless the customer specifies otherwise. For the soul purpose of making our systems more reliable,but it comes with a price. So if this is for your home its not important you get it.

Roderick Shilling

http://www.orbitmicro.com

http://www.qubitmicro.com

 

[gwinn7]

cdogg,

Your statement is not totally accurate...

"Also, you cannot mix ECC RAM with non-ECC RAM."

Yes, you CAN, BUT it depends on the motherboard. Some BIOS's are able to do this, but the ECC features will be discarded/disabled. Don't believe me? I have a working desktop PC in my office (my boss) using mixed ECC and Non-ECC RAM. Don't ask, it just worked out that way.

Gary
gwinn7
A+,N+,I+

 

[cdogg]

Gary,
Point taken. I should have said most motherboards will beep an error code at ya if you try. Besides, in the rare cases where it will work, you lose ECC altogether. So in the end, you're back at square one - what's the point of making the investment on ECC in the first place?

Good they mix...bad you wasted money

Remember from rakone's posts, it doesn't appear he's made that investment yet. The fact that he can run ECC and non-ECC together is not useful.




~cdogg

"The secret to creativity is knowing how to hide your sources."
- A. Einstein

 

[gwinn7]

cdogg,

Agreed!

My boss can't benefit from the ECC, but does benefit from the extra 512MB (I didn't buy it, btw! <g>)

Gary
gwinn7
A+,N+,I+