ECC or not ECC

[lfk]

Can I use ECC ram with a mobo and CPU  that does not support ECC?  Will it work just without all the features of ECC or just wont work at all?

[badreg]

Won't work at all.

[ihavequestions]

if it doesn't support it i don't think it'd work but I'd wait for other replies.

[svmlegacy]

4 minutes ago, lfk said:

Can I use ECC ram with a mobo and CPU  that does not support ECC?  Will it work just without all the features of ECC or just wont work at all?

You can, but it must be x8 memory devices, and not registered memory in most cases (unbuffered).

[GoodBytes]

If your system is a consumer Intel CPU (basically non-Xeon, but rather a Core i series) -> No. Well, it will work, but you'll be wasting money, as ECC part won't be in use.

If your system is a consumer AMD Ryzen CPU -> Yes, but not officially supported by AMD. No certification from AMD that it will work correctly. You get what you get.

If your system is an AMD Threadripper CPU -> Yes, enjoy.

 

Note: The above assumes a compatible motherboard.

It is recommended to also get memory that has been tested by your motherboard manufacture. See their latest list on your motherboard manufacture website.

 

Is ECC worth it?

Depends. ECC is more of an insurance. If you need to target 99.99% reliability, then yes.

Quality consumer computer parts are typically rated to be 97-98%

Budget is targeted for at least 95-97% reliable.

 

Server space tend to target 99.99% reliability. That is why their PCB feature 0 shortcuts in design, costing a lot more. Passes more rigorous testing, each server has at least 2x PSUs in the case one dies (and they are designed to be able to replace the faulty one while the server is running), and the server is on batteries, and the server room is on a generator, and the server room has no water or anything passing in the walls or ceiling beside power and Air Conditioning. This is also why fans are set at 100%.. and lots more overkill things, just to TRY and reach 99.99% reliability.

[lfk]

Thanks for the replies.  Probably missed a few details.  I have some spare ECC DIMMS and i plan to replace my very old 1150 cpu with a Xeon. Same mom however.  which is a MSI-H87I (https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/support/H87I.html)

 

No real major reason to do a complete system upgrade so was thinking I could reuse the spare ECC DIMMS I have along with putting in the Xeon.

[lfk]

16 minutes ago, lfk said:

Thanks for the replies.  Probably missed a few details.  I have some spare ECC DIMMS and i plan to replace my very old 1150 cpu with a Xeon. Same mom however.  which is a MSI-H87I (https://www.msi.com/Motherboard/support/H87I.html)

 

No real major reason to do a complete system upgrade so was thinking I could reuse the spare ECC DIMMS I have along with putting in the Xeon.

This is the DIMMs that I have https://www.ramcity.com.au/products/ddr3-1600-rdimm-m393b1g70qh0-yk0?variant=31151058714658