Problems with RAM?

Hi,

At work, I run several simulations that will (as far as I have been able to tell) use as much RAM as I can throw at it.

Currently, I have 12 x slots, of which 6 are taken up with 4GB chips giving me a total of 24GB RAM. At the moment, I can use the full RAM quota.



I am considering upgrading to 12 x 8GB chips giving a total of 96GB RAM. This is on a WIndows 7 Professional x64 OS. Can anyone forsee any possible issues I might have with this much RAM on the system? I currently have two RAM cooler fans installed and running in the case.



Regards,
Golden

It all depends on the motherboard and the system as a whole. Although the 64-bit version of Windows 7 is capable of using this amount of RAM, the board also has to support this amount. Given that a memory module typically consumes ~5W of power and that you are currently using 6 out of 12 slots, that equates to ~30W. Populating the other slots would take this figure to ~60W. Assuming that your PSU can handle this, there is another potential issue - this being timing and RAM frequency. In some cases, a board may be fully populated with RAM, but can only run a full quota at a lower frequency than it can if it was only partially populated.

I'm not sure if this would relate to the system in question, given that it is just a few general points and that the system probably uses a motherboard designed for use in a server. My best advice would be to consult with any manuals for the motherboard, and to see what other users in the same/similar situation have experienced.

Thanks Dwarf.

I'll have to check in with HP since these were custom built by them...here is as much detail as Speccy can get about the RAM and MOBO. The CPU is 1,100W but I can't tell what make....as you can see its a long beast (again I think its custom built).

Interestingly, Speccy reports 13 slots and 7 used, but its definately 12 slots and 6 used.

Regards,
Golden

The CPU is 1,100W but I can't tell what make

See if Belarc Advisor gives you that information

what is the model of the computer your using? i assume since its so massive its intended to be used as a server?

Hi Jamie,

Its a HP z800 Workstation.

Have yet to throw Belarc at it, but will give thta go shortly.

Regards,
Golden

Ah great Stormy - thanks very much. I didn't even think to look for the specification link.

Got a quote for the RAM today : AUS$12,000 apparently will need to check it out further.....

Update.....I have managed to jack up this PC to 72GB RAM (I'll post a screencapture tommorrow). Still don't know if I can get the authority to ramp up 5 of them to 96GB.....the wheels turn slowly