I have an HP ProLiant DL160G6 server, with 2 CPU's and 48GB ram, with following modules:
- 4x 8GB Module – DDR3 1066MHz (KTH-PL310Q8/8G)
- 4x 4GB Module – DDR3 1333MHz (KTH-PL3138/4G)
I'm re-purposing the server now to be a VMWare host, and wonder what would be the fastest RAM configuration placement?
Also, will it make any sense to place faster memory (16 GB on 1333MHz) on 1st CPU, and slower on 2nd, despite it creating an non-even configuration (16 + 32)?
Otherwise, should I just place:
- P1 – Channel 0 – 2x 8GB
- P1 – Channel 1 – 2x 4GB
- P2 – Channel 0 – 2x 8GB
- P2 – Channel 1 – 2x 4GB
Best Answer
For an HP ProLiant DL160 G6, there are a few things to consider.
First, that's not HP RAM!!! It's Kingston Memory. Furthermore, your 8GB module is a Quad-Rank DIMM and the 4GB module is a Dual-Rank DIMM. (Here's why ranks matter) This complicates things, as HP does not sell a Quad-Rank 8GB module in the product lineup.
Second, you must upgrade the firmware of your system (here's why), either via the individual firmware updates or via the HP Service Pack for ProLiant DVD. There were BIOS changes that impacted memory for that model.
Third, the most optimal configurations can be found via the HP Memory Configurator Tool. What you have in terms of parts is not ideal. At this point you just need to follow the Nehalem/Westmere DIMM population guidelines.
Summary:
So, your best option is for each CPU, populate Slots A and B with 8GB modules. Populate Slots C and D with 4GB modules.
The result will likely run at 800MHz instead of the native 1066MHz of the 8GB sticks or the 1333MHz of the 4GB sticks. If you remove two of the 4GB modules, the system will probably run at 1066MHz.