DDR3 Memory for Servers

[Michael]

Hello all,

Is it just me or is picking DDR3 memory for a server unnecessarily confusing!?

RDIMM, UDIMM, Buffered, Unbuffered, Registered or Unregistered - why can't the manufacturers all call it the same thing?

It appears looking at the Intel manual for an S3420GPV motherboard (page 28), the best option is RDIMM, which my understanding is Buffered or Registered-DIMM and allows the full 16GB of memory (across 4 DIMM slots) in this case.

The thing is when I look at Kingston's own website, it only gives me 2 x 4GB (as a kit) model no. KVR1333D3E9SK2/8GI but this appears Unbuffered (as are the other sticks listed) or model no. KVR1333D3D8R9S/4GI (single stick) which is Registered/Buffered on Intel's website.

Any pointers would be much appreciated, as there's me thinking I knew my memory!

[3s-gtech]

R-DIMM (buffered) would be KVR1333D3D4R9SK2/8GI I think, for what you need (2x4GB sticks). I guess Kingston's website isn't picking up the need (or preference, anyway) for R-DIMM.

[Michael]

Thanks although that model isn't listed on Intel's list; but then again no memory kits are listed.

I'd rather just play it safe and buy something which is listed, such as 4 x KVR1333D3D8R9S/4GI. This is registered, but also Intel Validated.

[Arthur]

What about Crucial? Their RAM is guaranteed to work in your motherboard...

www.crucial.com/uk/store/listparts.aspx?model=S3420GPV&Cat=RAM

[Michael]

I suppose I could look at Crucial too. I've used Kingston for years in many servers and I've had little problems *touchwood*

[Arthur]

One benefit Crucial has over Kingston is that they actually make the RAM themselves (due to being owned by Micron). Kingston on the other hand doesn't.

That said, I have never had any problems with either Kingston or Crucial RAM over the past ~12 years.

[john]

Can I suggest Hypertech its usually cheaper than both of those and has lifetime guarantee (or did last time I got some) and guaranteed compatible and its advanced swap on server ram if ordered for a named server etc...

[Michael]

Can I suggest Hypertech its usually cheaper than both of those and has lifetime guarantee (or did last time I got some) and guaranteed compatible and its advanced swap on server ram if ordered for a named server etc...

Hypertech are not on Intel's list, so unfortunately it's a no go. Servers can be extremely picky with what's installed, even if it's a like for like spec.

[3s-gtech]

Another + for Hypertec (though doesn't help with your server here), as they're well priced and have great customer service. Bought hundreds of sticks from them, only two failed. One was a server stick with lifetime warranty, and they sent a replacement out the next day.

[Michael]

I've decided to go with a Kingston (but thank you for all your input), however other than being Intel validated, what's the difference between these two sticks? There's approx. a £20 difference per stick:

KVR1333D3D8R9S/4GI

KVR1333D3D8R9S/4G

[Arthur]

however other than being Intel validated

None.

The I at the end of the part number means it's Intel validated.