ECC memory is Error-Correcting Code memory. All RAM will experience occasional errors due to factors such as: ? Cosmic rays ? Alpha particles ? RF interference ? Power fluctuations ? Static electricity discharges ? Faulty components ? Improper system timing ECC memory is capable of detecting and correcting some of these errors. ECC memory will correct a single failed bit in a 64-bit memory block. If multiple bits within one 64-bit memory block fail, ECC memory will detect the errors but will be unable to correct them. ECC memory is highly recommended for server-class systems. It is optional for gaming systems.
ECC Requirements To use ECC memory: ? The system must have all ECC memory - no mixing and matching ? ECC memory must be supported by the motherboard ? ECC checking must be enabled in the system BIOS.
Timothy Drake writes on topics such as ECC Memory , RAM and DRAM for The Tech FAQ.