ML350 G4p memory issue

[Chris Gaither2]

I have been attempting to upgrade the memory in my ML350 G4p. When I replace the current DIMMs with the new memory, the system will not boot, will not post will not do just about anything. I am using (I believe)the correct memory for the machine PC2 3200 DDR2 400 CL3 ECC registerd. I am attempting to remove 2 sticks of 512 and replace with 6 1 gig sticks, I am just worried I am overlooking something obvious. BTW I have checked the Intel website and the memory I am attempting to use is on their validation list for the Lindenhurst platform. Any help would be greatly appreciated

[Girma Kassa_2]

Hi Chris,

The type of memory are PC2 3200 DDR2 which is correct, however are you using HP brand if so, to make sure they are install in pairs with identical memory.

Third party memory do cause problem and not recommended on HP servers.

Cheers

Girma

[Chris Gaither2]

All six pieces are identical. it is not HP Branded Memory but is on the validation list for the chipset. I could understand quirkyness but to not even boot and recognize the memory seems like I am doing something wrong.

[Andy_180]

Hi CHris-

you may have a DIMM. or two bad DIMMs. try seeing if it will "inter mix" with your old. ie- put your 512 and 2 1gb dimms in at once.
you may need a dual pwr supply if using all 6 dimm slots. try popping out the hard drives and turning on server. let me know what happens next.
thanks.
--Andy

[Chris Gaither2]

I have tried to mix to check for possible bad DIMMs btu to no avail. I didn't even think about the dual power supply issue, but I didn't see anything in any of the documentation that implied that would be needed..... I will give disconnecting some of the other devices in the system a try and see if that makes a difference

[kcpant · Accepted solution]

Hi Chris,

AFAIK, RAM for OEM systems (Like for HP) are registered RAM, so, you can only install a registered RAM having entires for HP code into it inside an HP server. probably you are trying to install a generic RAM, which will not work in this case. Try to put HP RAM or any other OEM RAM supported on this server (like kingston).

[Chris Gaither2]

can anyone confirm that HP writes specific code into the ramm so only certain vendors Modules will work ? Why wouldn't they mention that in the documentation? In the docs it only specifies PC2 3200 Registerd, sorry I spent a pretty fair amount of money on the ram that I purchased and this would have been helpful info prior to ordering RAM since when I looked on HP's site they didn't have availability for the parts that I was looking for

[Basil Vizgin]

Chris, HP never promises that other vendors memory will work. HP always strongly advices to use only HP memory with corresponding partnumber.
Transcend/Kingston sell their memory for HP servers with reference to HP partnumbers.
As I know, the same situation and with IBM.

[kcpant]

Hi Chris,

As you have mentioned "PC2 3200 DDR2 400 CL3 ECC registerd" in the specs, it's clearly understood that it's a registered RAM. All registered RAM have some specific BIOS recognition code written on a small ROM chip (SPD) located over RAM stick. so, only a stick which is having that specific code can only be recognised in a OEM system if that system specifies so. This is not a properitary thing for HP, it's with all brands (HP, IBM, Dell etc) to make sure that some standerdized quality product must be installed inside the system. If the specification says "registered" word, you have to put a RAM from the same OEM or any compatible RAM made by other RAM manufacturers (like transcend, kingston).

[Chris Gaither2]

OK Guys I got it. but my point is the ram I used IS Validated and is on the current Intel Validation list for the 7520 (lindenhurst) chipset. so if HP reuires certain code in the SPD wich you are all correct lots of manufacturers do, I would have loved to see some kind of statement on or a link to an approved list of vendors for memory.