Memory

High application performance and fast data processing - the right RAM for your servers

RAM (Random Access Memory) is one of the key components when it comes to server performance. As a temporary memory buffer, it is used to provide fast access to the data required by the operating system and running applications. By caching data from multiple applications simultaneously, memory enables servers to run smoothly and quickly in complex IT environments with a wide variety of applications and a large number of users.

The amount of memory available limits the amount of data that can be processed simultaneously. In addition to servers that run large databases, systems used for virtualisation also benefit from large amounts of RAM, as more memory resources can be made available to virtual machines.

When servers are used for demanding calculations and data analysis in HPC (High Performance Computing), memory speed also has a major impact on performance. Higher memory clock speeds enable faster access for accelerated data processing in complex analyses and simulations.

DDR RAM memory standards overview

With improvements in chip technology, the DDR (Double Data Rate) memory standards used in servers have been continually updated to become more powerful. Older generations of memory, such as DDR2, are therefore generally less important in modern IT infrastructures. Its successors, DDR3 and especially DDR4, are widely used and often still meet many of the requirements of a wide range of applications and environments. Today's fastest memory, the DDR5 generation, offers a further significant increase in performance, but also places special demands on a server's motherboard and processors. For example, both AMD EPYC and Intel Xeon Scalable CPUs (central processing units) only support the standard from the fourth generation of processors.

• DDR3 RAM modules for servers are available in capacities up to 32 GB and at speeds of PC3-8500 / PC3-10600 / PC3-12800 / PC3-14900

• DDR4 RAM modules for servers are available in capacities up to 128 GB and at the speeds PC4-2133 / PC4-2400 / PC4-2666 / PC4-2933 / PC4-3200

• DDR5 RAM modules for servers are available in capacities up to 256 GB and at speeds of PC5-4800 / PC5-5600

When selecting suitable RAM for existing server solutions, it is important to note that memory standards are generally not compatible. Servers from different device generations primarily support the current RAM, but can only be equipped with this memory generation. For example, a DDR4 DIMM slot (Dual Inline Memory Module) cannot accommodate DDR3 modules due to differences in the number of pins and different notches for locking the memory module in place. In addition to conventional memory modules, there are also variants in a particularly compact form factor. These SO-DIMMs (Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module) are suitable for use in NAS systems (Network Attached Storage) and Mini PCs, as well as for notebooks and mobile workstations.

RAM modules are also available in different memory speeds and capacities within memory generations. To avoid compatibility issues when upgrading memory, refer to the server manufacturer's technical documentation for details of the memory modules supported by the system. When installing main memory, it is also important to note that some server systems have memory slots on memory riser boards rather than on the motherboard. These are installed as expansion cards in the appropriate slots and have different numbers of DIMM slots to accommodate the server's main memory, depending on the model.

Memory modules for different applications

In addition to the different technical specifications, different module variants are available depending on the application of the memory, which are distinguished by an additional label.

• UDIMM - Unbuffered RAM Modules

With unbuffered modules, the system's memory controller has direct access to the memory chips to manage the RAM. These modules are primarily used in conventional PCs. Small servers and workstations often support UDIMMs with integrated ECC (error correcting code) to reduce memory errors.

• RDIMM - Registered RAM Modules

With registered modules, the system's memory controller does not access the memory chips directly, but communicates with a register chip integrated into the modules. This reduces the load on the controller and allows it to manage more RAM. These modules almost always feature ECC and are suitable for high performance servers and workstations.

• LRDIMM - Load Reduced RAM Modules

The advantage of load-reduced modules is that they use a buffer instead of a register chip to further reduce the load on the memory controller. This in turn increases the possible memory capacity of a server to meet the high demands of memory-intensive applications. LRDIMMs are often the only way to achieve the maximum technically possible main memory configuration for servers.

Buy refurbished RAM modules at low prices - ServerShop24

If the increasing requirements of your applications make it necessary to expand the memory of your servers, used and carefully tested RAM modules from our online shop are a cost-effective and often ideal alternative to expensive new memory. In addition to refurbished server systems from well-known brands such as HPE, Dell, Lenovo and Fujitsu, you will also find the right memory modules for the various device generations in our extensive range to optimise the application performance of your servers by upgrading them with compatible RAM.
Since 2010, we are your reliable partner for professionally refurbished used servers, workstations, storage systems and network equipment. Fast shipping from our large stock ensures short delivery times, so you can get the equipment you need and the appropriate spare parts and components quickly. Our experienced and friendly support team can assist with any questions you may have about products, configurations and your order. Contact us - we will take care of your request!