Collection: Dell PowerEdge R520 RAM Memory Upgrades

The Dell R520 is a Dual Processor system with 6 DIMM slots per CPU. There are three memory channels per CPU.  Each memory channel manages two DIMM slots.  There are 3 types of memory supported by the Dell R520 server:  ECC Registered (RDIMMs), Load Reduced (LRDIMMs) and ECC Unbuffered (Server UDIMMs).  The R520 also supports standard 1.5V or low voltage 1.35V. You cannot mix different memory types.  You cannot mix voltages so 1.5V and 1.35V will NOT work together. Different speeds can be mixed, but please not the modules will function at the slowest speed installed.  If you install all 1600MT/s and put in 1 x 1066MT/s, then all the modules will clock down to the slower speed 1066MT/s.  Important note and one reason we recommend to not mix modules.  We always ship matching sticks.  The entire kit will all be one P/N with same exact specs.  This will help to ensure better stability while running your Dell R520 server.

Cloud Ninjas' Dell R520 Memory Upgrade Tips

• There are a total of 12 DIMM slots on the Dell R520 server.
• The R520 has 6 memory channels and each memory channel supports 2 DIMMs per channel.  This is important when you are installing quad rank memory.
• If only inserting 6 memory modules, then you should install the memory at the start of each memory channel (the white DIMM slots) to maximize your overall performance.
• Sizes supported: 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB ECC Registered (RDIMM); and 2GB, 4GB or 8GB Unbuffered (UDIMM); and 16GB or 32GB Load Reduced (LRDIMM).
• DO NOT MIX DIFFERENT MEMORY TYPES.  DO NOT MIX MEMORY VOLTAGES.
• The max memory configuration for the Dell PowerEdge R520 server is 768GB via 12 x 64GB using Load Reduced Server Memory.  Yes we understand Dell's spec sheet says the max is 384GBs.  However, we have tested and 64GB LRDIMMs will work with latest BIOS and Intel V2 procs. 
• The Dell R520 max memory configuration is 384GB for ECC Registered server memory (12 x 32GB).  Whereas unbuffered tops out at 96GB (12 x 8GB).  We always recommend RDIMM and LRDIMM over UDIMM.
• The absolute top of the line RAM would be via load reducing memory. The Dell R520 could get twice the scalability with LRDIMMs over RDIMMs.
• Speed options for the PowerEdge R520 are 1866MHz, 1600MHz, 1333MHz, or 1066MHz depending on the type of memory module and processor configuration  Please note 1866 will clock down to 1600.
• When purchasing new memory it is best to purchase identical memory modules to what your system already has. Your current server configuration will determine the supported DIMM type and speed.  We always send matching kits so rest assured you are in good hands.
• Think Long Term! Purchase the maximum amount that your PowerEdge R520 can hold and avoid wasting time and money on modules you won't be able to use if you upgrade again.
• The total number of memory modules that you should have in your PowerEdge R520 should equal 3, 6, or 12.  This will maximize performance by utilizing each memory channel evenly. 
• To properly configure your system, install a minimum of two memory modules first.

R520 Memory Installation Video

Cloud Ninjas' Dell PowerEdge R520 Questions & Answers

1. What sizes memory modules can you install inside the Dell PowerEdge R520 Server?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 Server can be upgraded using 1 GB, 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, 16 GB and 32 GB RDIMM or 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB UDIMM or 16GB, 32GB or 64GB LRDIMMs.
   Note: For 768 GB LRDIMM kits, you will need Intel V2 processors and latest BIOS updated on your Dell R520 server.
   
   
2. What speeds are supported by the Dell PowerEdge R520 Server?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 Server can support 1066MT/s, 1333MT/s, 1600MT/s and 1866MT/s speeds are all supported.  Please note that 1866 will clock down to 1600MT/s and 1600 is in fact the highest speed.
   
   
3. What types of RAM are accepted by the Dell PowerEdge R520 Server?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 Server supports DDR3 RDIMM and DDR3 UDIMM as a standard and can support LRDIMM at 1333MT/s.
   
   
4. What is ECC Registered Memory?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 Server supports registered memory with ECC. ECC memory detects and corrects memory errors within the server environment. Registered (also called buffered) memory modules register between DRAM modules and the system's memory controller. ECC Registered Memory transfers less electrical load to your memory controller which makes it more stable and reliable.
   
   
5. What is Unbuffered Memory?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 Server supports unbuffered memory with ECC. Unbuffered memory is memory that has no register between your DRAM and your system’s memory controller.
   
   
6. What is Load Reduced Memory?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 Server does support load reduced DIMM (LRDIMM). Load reduced DIMM is designed with a buffer chip (or chips) to replace the register to help minimize loading, the LRDIMM increases server system memory capacity and speed. LRDIMM differs from low capacity, low voltage registered memory modules (LV RDIMM).
   
   
7. Can I mix ECC Reg with ECC unbuffered or Non-ECC memory?
   No.  You cannot mix.  The Dell PowerEdge R520 server does not support the use of both unregistered and registered memory with ECC or the use of non-ECC memory. It is recommended to use identical memory configuration in all channels.
   
   
8. What is max configuration?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 server allows the maximum configuration 768GB for LRDIMMs and 384GBs for RDIMMs. Configurations can use 12 x 64GB DDR3 LRDIMM or 12 x 32GB DDR3 RDIMM.  For 768GB upgrades make sure you have the latest BIOS and V2 procs.
   
   
9. How many memory channels per CPU?
   The Dell PowerEdge R520 Server has 6 channels supports two DIMMs per channel.  This is 3 memory channels per CPU.  You can use single, dual, and quad rank.
   
   
10. How do I identify the start of the memory channel?
    This is fairly simple.  Dell has labeled and color coded the DIMM slots.  White is the start of each channel.  A1 would be first slot in the first channel.  B1 is first slot in the second channel.  C1 is first slot in third channel and so forth.  
    
    
11. Where can I order memory for my Dell R520 server?
    Buy memory for your Dell R520 server on this page by finding and selecting the memory package that is right for you.  Or you can email sales@cloudninjas.com if you prefer another method.
    
    
12. How soon will my RAM arrive?
    Orders placed before 8 am CST are set for same day processing and shipping. Delivery times vary based on carrier and location.
    
    
13. What is the warranty on memory for the server?
    Cloud Ninjas offers a one-year warranty on fully tested, refurbished memory.
    
    
14. Is this RAM Dell labeled or Dell branded?
No. The memory shipped from Cloud Ninjas is compatible with your Dell system. However, it will not have a Dell sticker. We ship major brands such as Samsung, Hynix and Micron.