Server Memory - Support

The memory speed in a server will depend on several factors: CPU, number of memory ranks installed and voltage.

Your CPU may only be able to run memory up to a certain speed, regardless of the memory you have installed. For example, you may have 1600MT/s memory installed, but the CPU is only capable of running memory at 1333MT/s.

Memory ranks can affect speed the more modules you have installed. For example, if you have a system that runs memory in triple channel and install one set of 3 modules, it may run at 1333MT/s if they are single or dual ranked. But once a second set of modules is installed, the speed is reduced to 1066MT/s. If the first set was quad ranked, it may only run at 1066MT/s and down clock to 800MT/s with a second set. Quad ranked modules would be used because they are usually higher capacity. Some systems are compatible with load reduces DIMMs (LRDIMMs). These modules allow for higher capacity modules at higher speeds.

If you install low voltage DIMMs, They may run at a slower speed than the same number of standard voltage DIMMs. For example, you may be able to install two set of 1.5V memory at 1333MT/s. But with 1.35V memory, the modules would run at 1066MT/s.

Please refer to your system or motherboard manual for specific memory configurations.

KTM-060415-SVR-01

FAQ: KTM-060415-SVR-01

Memory modules can be made in different ways to allow for additional functions. These functions require additional components.

Registered memory has registers or buffers included on the module for a better flow of data which increases data reliability. It also allows for greater memory scalability (larger amounts of RAM can be installed). Because of this, registered memory is used mostly in servers. Some Registered DIMMs come with a parity function. This is used for additional error checking. Your computer's motherboard would have to support parity in order for this function to be used. Parity registered memory can also be used in systems that just take registered memory. In this case, the parity function will not be used. Registered memory includes ECC functionality but not all ECC is registered.

Fully buffered memory takes some of the functions of the memory controller (a chip that controls the data flow of RAM) and puts it on the memory module. This further increases memory scalability. Fully buffered memory cannot be used in a computer that takes registered memory and vice versa. Fully buffered memory includes ECC functionality but not all ECC is fully buffered.

Unbuffered memory is memory that does not include any buffers or registers. It is the most commonly used memory in desktop and notebook computers. You cannot use registered memory or fully buffered memory in a computer that takes unbuffered memory.

ECC (Error Correcting Code) memory includes an additional memory chip which allows the motherboard to detect and correct one bit errors. This increases data reliability and can help identify a failing memory module. All registered and fully buffered memory modules also include ECC functionality. ECC unbuffered memory also exists and is usually used in higher end workstation computers. In some cases, you can use ECC unbuffered memory in a computer that takes unbuffered memory but does not have ECC functionality. It simply will not use this feature of the memory.

FAQ: KTM-012711-GEN-03

No. Registered and Unbuffered RAM can't coexist. Registered and Unbuffered are two different memory technologies. Installing the incorrect memory or mixing these technologies could cause damage to the motherboard and/or memory module(s).

FAQ: KTM-021011-GEN-15

Parts sold in kits (denoted by "K2" or "K3"in the part number, e.g. – KVR400X64C3AK2/2G) are specifically packaged for use in Dual or Triple Channel motherboards. Although Dual and Triple Channel technology resides on the motherboard itself (inside the chipset), the memory modules need to be installed in pairs or sets of three for Dual or Triple Channel mode to function properly. Identical modules packaged in a kit work best because the motherboard will be accessing all the memory modules as a single memory location with a wider bandwidth. Kingston suggests the use of modules sold in kits for Dual or Triple Channel enabled motherboards.

FAQ: KTM-020911-GEN-19

A memory rank is defined as an area or block of 64-bits (72-bits for ECC) created by using some or all of the DRAM chips on a DIMM. A single-rank ECC DIMM (x4 or x8) uses all of its DRAM chips to create a single block of 72 bits, and all the chips are activated by one chip-select signal from the memory controller chipset. A dual-rank ECC DIMM produces two 72-bit blocks from two sets of DRAM chips on the DIMM, requiring two chip-select signals. The chip-select signals are staggered so that both sets of DRAM chips do not contend for the memory bus at the same time.

FAQ: KTM-021011-KVR-02

ElectroStatic Discharge, ESD is simply the discharge of built-up static electricity. ESD should not be taken lightly as this is one of the few things that an individual can do to damage or destroy their computer or hardware components. It is like when you rub your feet on the carpet and you touch something metal. ESD can occur without the user feeling a shock and will occur when only working on the inside of the computer or handling hardware.

How to help prevent ESD
The best method of preventing ESD is to use an ESD wrist strap or an earthing mat or table. However, because most users do not have access to these items, we have included the below steps to help reduce the chance of ESD as much as possible.

• Standing – We recommend that you are standing at all times when working on the computer. Sitting on a chair can generate more electrostatic.
• Cables – Make sure that everything is removed from the back of the computer (power cable, mouse, keyboard, etc).
• Clothes – Do not wear any clothing that conducts a lot of Electrical Charge, such as a wool jumper.
• Accessories – To help reduce ESD and prevent other problems, it is also a good idea to remove all jewellery.
• Weather – Electrical storms can increase the ESD risk; unless absolutely necessary, try not to work on a computer during an electrical storm. In very dry areas, the air itself becomes a part of the electrostatic build-up mechanism every time there is an air flow (wind, air conditioning, blower) passing over an insulated surface. Do not let high humidity levels build false confidence, and beware of corrosion problems with interconnects and other electrical interfaces.

To learn more about ESD and how to protect your electronics, please refer to the below site.

ESD Association
https://www.esda.org

FAQ: KTC-Gen-ESD