What does "ECC" and "Non-ECC" mean (RAM)

It is to do with error correction. If you absolutely need to guarantee no errors in any calculations you do, then you should use EEC memory - this is why it is more expensive.

See the previous thread about this - https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/157322/

ECC = Error Correcting Code

It means that for high priority workstations and servers that random bit flips don't screw up the final result.

The original PowerMac G5 cluster at Virginia was only a proof-of-concept supercomputer cluster because the PowerMacs didn't use ECC RAM at the time. The PowerMacs were used to demonstrate the viability of Mac OS X as a server OS and were sold cheaply online when the xServe was introduced which could use ECC RAM.

thomasp said:

So for normal, everyday use, is Non-ECC RAM OK?

Click to expand...

Unless you count "normal everyday use" as rocket science, long range weather prediction or complex molecular modeling you should be right with the regular stuff.

ECC RAM is really an option that has been added to make the PowerMac look more professional and "super-computer like" than it was before. It's for the big time mathematics like computing load distribution on aeroplane wings and stuff like that.

Chundles said:

It means that for high priority workstations and servers that random bit flips don't screw up the final result.

Click to expand...

A bit error can also result in a computer crash.



BTW, EEC = European Economic Community

cube said:

A bit error can also result in a computer crash.



BTW, EEC = European Economic Community

Click to expand...

Yeah, that too...