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ECC Server Memory into Desktop?

S

StockDC2

n00b
Joined
Apr 17, 2010
Messages
16
Hey guys, I just picked up some memory off of CL and the guy advertised it as working in regular desktop motherboards. Since I was in a hurry, I didn't have time to verify this by doing a quick search (DOH!). Once I got home, I tried installing them into the empty banks on my Asus P5E X38 but they wouldn't fit. Is this because ECC server memory doesn't fit into desktops? The pin count is the same as regular DDR2, which is weird. Btw, the memory in question is the Kingston FB-Dimm DDR2 PC-5300.
 
Is this because ECC server memory doesn't fit into desktops
Click to expand...

Correct, look at the notch along the edge of the ram where the contacts are that plug into the memory slot. Then look in the memory slot for the "key" (which is just a bump of plastic) I bet they do not line up, It will be impossible to use that ram if they do not line up exactly. The notch on the memory sticks is on purpose in a different place than regular desktop ram.



http://www.kingston.com/newtech/fbdimm/default.asp
Q: What are FB-DIMMs?

FB-DIMMs represent the next-generation server memory technology that is currently being standardized by JEDEC, the industry's standard group. Intel Corporation is a key developer of FB-DIMM technology and the first adopter, launching it on its two-way Xeon servers (code-named "Bensley") with 5000 series chipsets launching in 2006. FB-DIMMs are "intelligent" memory modules, incorporating a special memory controller built into the memory module.

FB-DIMMs are not compatible with existing servers utilizing DDR2 Registered DIMM memory. They also will not work in desktop or mobile platforms as they are only designed for servers with FB-DIMM memory architecture.
 
ECC memory will work with that board actually, however, you still have the wrong type. You need ECC unbuffered (or just regular non-ECC). FB-DIMMs are for dual 771 systems only.
 
I guess it's possible that the seller has used ECC modules in consumer boards in the past and just assumed these would work since they're also ECC, but it seems more likely that he got the wrong RAM and pawned it off on you. I can't imagine someone who had a need for FB-DIMMs at some point not knowing that they're notched differently.
 
Yep, you need unbuffered ECC RAM (or non-ecc RAM); FB-DIMMs won't fit.

You also need a motherboard that supports ECC otherwise the RAM may be treated as non-ECC - fortunately Asus is one of the few companies that consistently supports ECC RAM in their desktop products.
 
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