R510 Ram configuration with only 1 cpu.

[rpain]

Hi,

 

I've got an old poweredge r510 lying around which I'm trying to get 32gb of ram fitted into (8*4gb modules). I've got 8 memory slots and two slots for cpus. The server only has 1 cpu and it seems only one bank of 4 will work. The question - is there any way I can get the server to see all 8 modules with only 1 cpu? I've tried trawling through the bios but nothing is obvious. If not then I guess the alternatives are either get another cpu or get 8gb modules?

 

Any advice really welcome

Richard

[3s-gtech]

If it's the same as the Proliants we have (most likely, as the chipsets etc will be the same) the answer is no. I picked up a cheap second CPU from ICT Direct, with a heatsink from Ebay.

[tmcd35]

Unfortunately the additional memory slots require the second CPU in order to be accessible. It's part of the Non-Uniform Memory Access (NUMA) architecture the Symmetric MultiProcessor (SMP) bus is designed around. In simple terms, the memory controller is built in to the CPU, without the CPU there's non memory controller for those slots.

 

Once the second CPU is in place the first CPU will be able to request access via CPU-2's memory controller but CPU-2 will have priority in accessing those RAM banks, and vise-versa for CPU-2 accessing CPU-1's RAM banks.

[rpain]

Thanks - I'll speak to Dave at ICT Direct again.

[3s-gtech]

Looking on Google Images, it appears that you only need CPU and heatsink - don't think you need a VRM or extra fans (but check). You may be able to fit another compatible HS rather than the exact Dell one as it appears to use the standard LGA 1366 mounts.