Check your system's specifications to see if it supports 88GB of RAM.
Check your system's specifications to see if it supports 88GB of RAM.
I'm considering combining the existing 64GB with the new 24GB kit. Can I achieve a total of 88GB of RAM, or should I purchase more to reach 128GB? Also, I wanted to confirm compatibility with my motherboard.
It should function most likely, but dual or quad channel speeds are unlikely.
It might function, though there are no guarantees when combining memory kits.
I've experienced many successes with mixing rdimms, yet I've definitely faced issues where the server wouldn't boot with specific combinations. Assuming you're referring to a set of three sticks, that configuration feels unusual, and it likely prevents dual or quad channel memory from working. If you really don't require the additional space, it probably just adds no value and could even complicate things further.
Thank you. I'll keep you updated next week if the outcome is successful.
My handling of server memory has been quite unpredictable. It means sometimes it functions, other times it fails and you only find out after attempting it. I've purchased identical memory units at two different times but still experienced issues, often resulting in POST failures. To ensure compatibility, you'll need to send the entire set to the manufacturer for a verified match. In other cases, mixed kits have worked without problems. Since I can't confirm your specific hardware or BIOS version, it's essentially a risk you're taking. You might improve your odds by closely matching the original specifications. Generally, servers tend to avoid mixing RAM with different ranks—like 1Rx4 with 2Rx8 or 4Rx16. Keep that in mind. If you're comfortable with the uncertainty, proceed, but consider whether it's necessary. A 64GB workstation is a significant amount of memory. Does your workflow truly require more?
24GB likely means a triple channel setup with three 8GB modules. This fits only LGA1356 and LGA1366 configurations for matching module counts on the system. Your machine supports 16 DIMM slots per the Dell documentation. You should be able to use the memory you found since the system backs up to 256GB RAM. If you already have 64GB installed and all are identical, it suggests eight 8GB modules, indicating a potential upgrade to quad, dual or single channel. Purchasing 24GB probably leaves you with a configuration like 64GB in quad, 32GB in dual, and 8GB in single—something unlikely to run smoothly. The price point of $24 per stick seems reasonable, but the seller appears unfamiliar; I wouldn’t buy three modules unless you already have eight. Stick with four or eight instead.