What is ECC memory?

The error correcting code memory (ECC-RAM) is a memory that can recognize and correct certain types of internal data corruption. ECC memory also checks data in memory that could be falsified and prevents 99.988 percent of the most common memory errors.

What types of memory errors are there?

» HardErrors, also called single bit errors:
This type is relatively easy to determine and correct since the error occurs repeatedly. This is called a constant correlation function.

» Soft Errors:
This type occurs more frequently than is assumed and is difficult to establish. Soft errors occur when a program bit reads out an incorrect return value, but still works correctly.

Where are ECC memories used?

Mainly, ECC storage is used in workstations and servers where data errors can not be tolerated under any circumstances (for example, design, design, science, financial analysis). Compared to the alternatives, the ECC memory is slightly slower (2-3 percent) and also slightly more expensive (about 22 € more for a 2x 4GB memory configuration).

What impact can a memory error have?

The occurrence of a memory error can have four possible consequences. The problem is that the consequences do not have to occur all at once or are not noticed by the user.

1. A memory error at a location used for pixel display may change a pixel color from red to blue. A mistake of this kind may be invisible and has almost no consequences.
2. A memory error in a location that is not used will not cause any complications or consequences.
3. A memory error in the form of a bit-flip that makes a 1 to a 0 is significant. For example, a portfolio trading strategy could have a significant negative impact when the bit-flip has been unknowing. The result would be a wrong solution.
4. A memory error occurring in a part of the memory used by the operating system can be devastating. The result can be a Bluescreen of the operating system, thus a complete standstill. Previous work, which has not been saved on a non-volatile disk, has been lost. In terms of monetary terms, this means that the sum of restoring the work from the last storage point, plus the time to repair the system, plus the opportunity cost of the lost work during the repair period, can quickly exceed EUR 500 (1h + 2h + 2h = 5h à 100 EUR / h).

What is the chance of a memory error?

The chance of a memory error is higher than you might think, even if they do not attract attention. The following studies show the risk:

• According to Google, a memory error will occur on one of three computers.

• According to AMD, a 4 GB system memory has a memory error at least once a week. If more memory is available, the risk of an error increases.

• According to LamdaDiode.com, a computer has the 96% chance of a memory error every three days.

Is the investment in ECC memory worth the money?

As a PC gamer, you probably will not worry about memory errors, but as a professional user who is involved in development, modeling, simulation, analysis, construction, or other activities and needs to make important decisions, the answer should be "yes" ,