SK0-003 · Question #469
A customer has purchased a triple channel memory kit containing three DDR3 RAM modules. The server the RAM is intended for only has a dual channel capable motherboard. Which of the following is the BE
The correct answer is C. Purchase dual channel memory. The triple channel memory may be incompatible with the server. The best action for a dual channel motherboard with triple channel RAM is to acquire memory specifically designed for dual channel systems, as the existing triple channel modules may be incompatible or lead to instability.
Question
A customer has purchased a triple channel memory kit containing three DDR3 RAM modules. The server the RAM is intended for only has a dual channel capable motherboard. Which of the following is the BEST action to perform?
Options
- AInstall only two modules as the RAM has to be installed in pairs
- BPurchase one additional RAM module to make it even. Three modules will function as triple channel
- CPurchase dual channel memory. The triple channel memory may be incompatible with the server
- DInstall the RAM. Two modules will perform as dual channel and one as single channel
How the community answered
(54 responses)- A13% (7)
- B7% (4)
- C76% (41)
- D4% (2)
Why each option
The best action for a dual channel motherboard with triple channel RAM is to acquire memory specifically designed for dual channel systems, as the existing triple channel modules may be incompatible or lead to instability.
Installing only two modules from a triple channel kit into a dual channel board might function, but it does not resolve potential inherent compatibility issues of the modules themselves, which are designed for triple channel operation.
A dual channel motherboard only supports two channels, so adding a fourth module would not enable triple channel operation and would still result in a mismatch with the motherboard's capabilities.
Memory modules are optimized for specific channel configurations, and using triple channel memory on a dual channel motherboard is not guaranteed to work and can cause compatibility issues, system instability, or prevent the server from booting. Purchasing dedicated dual channel memory ensures optimal performance and reliability for the server's architecture.
Installing three modules on a dual channel motherboard, with two operating as dual channel and one as single channel, is typically not supported and can lead to system instability or failure, as dual channel motherboards usually require modules to be populated in pairs.
Concept tested: Memory channel compatibility and best practices
Source: https://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/support/articles/000005708/boards-and-kits.html
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