What is ECC Memory?
So, you've chosen the correct model of computer in order to ensure your compatibility. You're ready to choose the size upgrade you need and then you see there are two options of the same size. Many times this is because one is ECC and the other is non-ECC. Some machines can take both so it can be confusing to know which one to choose.
ECC stands for Error Correcting Code. It's a function in the memory that allows it to detect and correct single and multiple bit errors. It is most often found in servers. Usually, desktop computers have non-ECC memory as the standard memory unless specified otherwise at order time. Some machines can take both ECC and non-ECC memory and other machines must have all of the same kind. If it can take both, it will usually default to non-ECC if both types of memory are present. ECC is usually more expensive because it has an extra chip and is more rare.
There are a few ways to determine what type of memory you currently have in order to upgrade with the same type. One way is to count the actual number of chips on the memory. If the number of chips is divisible by 9 (so 9 or 18 chips), then it's ECC. Another way (especially if a heat spreader covers the chips) is to read the actual information on the memory to see if it has any specifications indicating ECC or non-ECC. If you're still not having any luck, a call to your computer manufacturer with your serial number should provide some answers as to what the original memory configuration and specifications were of your computer. Finally, if you still don't know, we have a program that can scan your system and let you know what type of memory you have along with other useful memory information about your computer.
ECC stands for Error Correcting Code. It's a function in the memory that allows it to detect and correct single and multiple bit errors. It is most often found in servers. Usually, desktop computers have non-ECC memory as the standard memory unless specified otherwise at order time. Some machines can take both ECC and non-ECC memory and other machines must have all of the same kind. If it can take both, it will usually default to non-ECC if both types of memory are present. ECC is usually more expensive because it has an extra chip and is more rare.
There are a few ways to determine what type of memory you currently have in order to upgrade with the same type. One way is to count the actual number of chips on the memory. If the number of chips is divisible by 9 (so 9 or 18 chips), then it's ECC. Another way (especially if a heat spreader covers the chips) is to read the actual information on the memory to see if it has any specifications indicating ECC or non-ECC. If you're still not having any luck, a call to your computer manufacturer with your serial number should provide some answers as to what the original memory configuration and specifications were of your computer. Finally, if you still don't know, we have a program that can scan your system and let you know what type of memory you have along with other useful memory information about your computer.
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