B-die is a solid choice if you don’t plan to overclock.
B-die is a solid choice if you don’t plan to overclock.
Hi everyone, Short version: Is B-die worth it if you won't overclock? Side question: Spend $100 extra on B-die C16 or on regular C14? Long version: I'm planning to buy a 5950x and a MSI B550 MEG Unify AMD AM4 ATX motherboard. My use case is numerical simulations: * I need MOAR (and faster) COREZ!!!11!11! (threadrippers are too expensive, sad face.) * All (but one) of the cores will run at 100% for days per simulation. * Running for *days* at 100% means no overclocking. I'd like to be able to use this computer for a number of years. * I need min 32GB memory, but the more the merrier--except my budget is finite. I was told by the helpful folks at Microcenter that 3600MHz CL16 RAM would work great OOB. (G.Skill Ripjaws V 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3600 PC4-28800 CL16 Dual Channel Desktop Memory Kit F4-3600C16D-32GVKC - Black is what they suggested.) (Unrelated, but I don't need blazing fast storage. The result of that days of run is a measly 10MB text file. A regular nvme drive is what I need. Ironic that the results --hopefully-- will help in a tiny teensy way in building quantum computers. These simulations will be the "pre-runs" before I send the real job to the HPC of my institution. ) I could spend $100 more on the memory if it will be worth it. However, seeing as I won't overclock, and noting that at this time, high speed rams aren't rare anymore... Maybe other chip makers have learned to make good dies? I don't know. Thank you all! Edited September 17, 2021 by pekirt Typo
I wouldn't bother at all. The Ripjaws kit is sufficient on its own, and I've used similar kits for years without any problems. If you need extra stability, the question should be about choosing ECC rather than debating whether to buy B-die memory. For your project, it would make more sense to opt for ECC over any B-die solution.
I almost always suggest B-Die kits. It's a top quality kit. Overclocking or not. Will retain a higher value over most other dies/kits. Proven overclocking and stability. None of that doesn't mean other die makes won't work though. And the memory controller is good up to 3200mt/s, so something to think about when you say NOT going to OC, well a 3600mt/s kit is an OC kit by standards. On that note, 3200mt/s 14-14-14-14-34 timings (B-Die) will bring pretty good performance and stability without having to worry.
When you're not planning to boost performance, focus on RAM chip types rather than specifics. For demanding simulations, faster speeds and reduced delays are beneficial, but the exact chip model isn't crucial as long as it meets the required specifications.
Error fixing code. When memory issues arise, it can detect bit flips and alert you if two bits changed, providing warnings. This capability is essential in data centers, with many workstations using it automatically. It helps identify potential failures early, ensuring full system availability and guaranteeing completely accurate results.
Here’s a clearer version of your message:
Thanks everyone. All points worth noting. For ECC, I should verify if my chosen motherboard supports it. Also, I expect around 20% less memory but more consistent performance. As ShrimpBrime mentioned, using a lower-end board would ensure quality and durability. BonVonBob pointed out that this won’t boost speed much, though other options will still work well. I’m working with many large sparse matrices and then performing matrix multiplications using their inverses. I need substantial memory to handle the workload and fast enough bandwidth for efficient computation. Now I have a better grasp of what’s involved. Thanks all!
B is not helpful for your needs. Similar to boards like the b550 unify, any large form factor (280mm+) or dual tower (nhd15 drp4) works just fine. For a board choice, opt for a b550 tomahawk or a pro Cooler like the fuma 2 or phantom—mid-range dual towers aren't too expensive. When it comes to RAM, go with any 3200mhz or 3600mhz CL16 kit you can find; it doesn’t really matter unless it’s under 3200mhz.
I aimed for stronger VRMs than typical consumer expectations, especially for sustained performance. The B550 Unify mobo was suggested by Microcenter based on that goal. While there are many details about the board, I don’t require all of them. I’m hoping for a more affordable yet reliable option with solid VRM quality—definitely. Later note: I wasn’t strictly focused on high-end specs or a large number of VRMs, but I’d prefer running at half maximum output with better stability than at full capacity with lower quality.