Which module for Intell 855GME-based board?

[buzzer]

Hello,

 

I'm building a five-node computing cluster system from these: http://www.ibase-i.com.tw/mb890.htm (the 'FC' variant), and I'm trying to figure out which Corsair module I need.

 

I have one working system, using this memory module from "Super Talent" memory: http://www.supertalent.com/SuperTalentMemory/products/product_detail.php?PN=D32PB1GJ. Using this module, the system boots fine.

 

I'd prefer to use Corsair modules, so based on the specs, I bought some Value Select VS1GB400C3 modules. When I power the system, I get no POST, with a never-ending series of long beeps.

 

I'm guessing that I've picked the wrong module; which one should I use?

 

Thanks for your time,

 

Buzzer

[RAM GUY]

Can you tell me the make and model of MB you have along with the CPU speed and it’s FSB as well? In addition, please tell me the bios settings you have set for both CPU and memory and any performance settings that you may have set?

[buzzer]

Thanks for the quick response!

 

> ...tell me the make and model of MB you have...

 

Motherboard specs: http://www.ibase-i.com.tw/mb890.htm (the 'FC' variant).

 

> ...CPU speed and it’s FSB...

 

Pentium M 2.1 GHz, 400 MHz FSB

 

> ...bios settings for memory...

 

These are the SPD settings that come up for the working module:

 

CAS Latency Time: 2.5

Active to Precharge Delay: 7

DRAM RAS# to CAS# Delay: 3

DRAM RAS# Precharge: 3

DRAM Data Integrity Mode: Non-ECC

 

MGM Core Frequency: Auto, Max 400/333 MHz

 

My BIOS doesn't contain any CPU-specific settings (e.g. there are no voltage or overclocking settings).

 

P.S. Perhaps a better way to re-phrase my question:

 

If I have one of these: http://www.supertalent.com/SuperTalentMemory/products/product_detail.php?PN=D32PB1GJ, which Corsair module is equivalent?

[RJLeong65]

Unfortunately, the VS1GB400C3 module may not work at all with your system. Your system's memory controller supports only up to DDR333 memory speed - but the SPD on the Value Select DDR400 memory is programmed only for DDR400 operation. What's more, many mini-ITX motherboard BIOSes offer no provision at all whatsoever to manually adjust the memory speed.

 

Worst of all, the DDR333 version of the Value Select modules is only available in capacities up to 512MB per stick.

 

In your case, your best chance of success with a 1GB Corsair module on your system would be a CMX1024-3200C2 module (at the stock SPD-detected timings of CAS 2.5-3-3-7 @ DDR333), since the System Select 1GB DDR333 modules would cost more than the XMS 3200C2 modules.

[buzzer]

> Your system's memory controller

> supports only up to DDR333 memory speed

 

Y'know, it's weird: the motherboard documentation says only up to DDR333, but the BIOS mentions "Auto, 333/400" as one of the settings. Still, when the board POSTs with the SuperTalent module, a message saying "running at DDR33" pops up. This is in line with your assertion, so I suppose that this means that the SuperTalent module can drop to 333MHz, even though it's capable of 400.

 

Next mystery: I'm wondering why the SuperTalent module data sheet says "CAS 3", but works fine when my BIOS only lists 2 and 2.5 as possible CAS latencies.

 

Thanks very much for the help, I appreciate it.

[RAM GUY]

I would try our non C3 module if the one you have is not working. And I would not suggest mixing our Value Select with the memory that came with your system.

[RJLeong65]

I would try our non C3 module if the one you have is not working. And I would not suggest mixing our Value Select with the memory that came with your system.

 

Actually, his system has only one DIMM slot. Thus, he would have to completely replace any existing memory with the new memory.