RAM for the server or RAM with ECC
RAM for servers is different from normal RAM. However, what the differences are may not be entirely clear. A little below we will give a list of differences and answer the question - is it possible to use RAM for a server on a regular computer.
RAM
We have already described RAM in our blog.
Today we will discuss what are the differences in RAM and what are the mandatory requirements for server RAM.
RAM Differences
RAM for servers is not much different from memory for stationary PCs, but there is one important aspect in the operation of the server and that is ECC. ECC technology is capable of detecting and correcting data errors in memory bits.
If RAM is used without ECC support, serious problems may occur on the server. For example, the server may not start in principle, or it will very often “Break down” and companies will incur losses. The use of regular RAM in the server will be acceptable only if this server is not used permanently or if the server is new and there are no finances on the RAM with ECC.
However, it should be taken into account that your server will definitely need ECC and it is better to overpay by 30% for RAM than to suffer from constant server failures later.
How does ECC work?
The error correction method works as follows: when writing 64 bits of data to a memory cell, a checksum of 8 bits is calculated. When the processor accesses this data and reads it, the checksum is recalculated and compared with the original one. If the amounts do not match, an error has occurred. If it is one–bit, then the wrong bit is corrected automatically, if it is two-bit, it is detected and reported to the OS.
This is the simplest possible explanation of what exactly this technology does.
Is it worth taking RAM from ECC for a regular computer
Since the problem with the loss of one bit is not critical in the operation of a stationary PC, it would be a bad idea to take this RAM. This is due to several reasons:
- Not all motherboards support this technology
This means that the RAM will either not work, or it will work, but the ECC function will be disabled.
- This type of RAM is more expensive
As a rule, RAM with this technology costs 30 percent more. This can be a serious argument not to buy this memory even if your motherboard supports this technology.
- ECC can affect the speed of operation
RAM without ECC support is faster. If you are going to use a computer for games, then ECC will certainly not suit you, because RAM will work slower.
According to these three points, ECC technology is very useful, but not suitable for most types of computers.
When should I use RAM with ECC
According to the description of this technology, it is mandatory in computers that are constantly working, using mathematical calculations or other heavy operations in which the loss of one bit will greatly affect the work.
Servers belong to this category because they are running business processes that affect the profits of companies. Due to the ESS technology, servers and computers will work continuously and without problems, which will bring greater results.
Conclusion
In this article, we have figured out what RAM should be used for servers, what is ESS and how it works, and you also learned when to use RAM with this technology.
If you don't have enough money to buy RAM with ESS, then it's better to rent a server from us! Favorable prices and smooth operation are exactly what you need!