RAM for AMD Ryzen 9 5950x: 2 vs 4 for FEA

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the optimal configuration of RAM for a computer build using the AMD Ryzen 9 5950x, specifically focusing on whether to use 2 or 4 sticks of RAM for finite element analysis (FEA) applications.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the benefits of using 2 versus 4 sticks of RAM for FEA applications.
  • Another participant suggests that since the system is limited to two memory channels, there may be no noticeable difference between using 2 or 4 sticks of RAM.
  • It is proposed that using 2 sticks allows for future upgrades, as there would be free slots available on the motherboard.
  • A clarification is made that having two sticks in a four-slot motherboard simplifies future memory upgrades compared to filling all slots.
  • One participant expresses a desire to max out memory at 128 GB and questions the availability of 64 GB sticks compared to 32 GB sticks.
  • Another participant notes that using 2 x 64 GB sticks allows for potential future expansion to 256 GB.
  • A question is raised regarding the types of software that require such high memory capacity, with mentions of running Ansys and Comsol for multiple simulations.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the limitations of memory channels and the potential for future upgrades, but there is no consensus on the optimal RAM configuration or the necessity of high memory capacity for specific applications.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes assumptions about motherboard capabilities and the availability of RAM options, which may vary based on specific models and market conditions.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals considering a computer build for FEA applications, particularly those interested in RAM configurations and future upgrade options.

KyleGranger
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TL;DR
Is it better to use 2 sticks or 4 of RAM to achieve the same total memory
I am looking to build a computer using the AMD Ryzen 9 5950x. I am wondering I will be better off with 2 or 4 sticks of RAM. I will be using this for FEA.
 
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If my search went right, it's limited to two memory channels anyway. So two or four stick - there should be no noticeable difference.
On the other hand, with two stick you will have free upgrade option for the future (I guess the usual motherboards has four slots).
 
Rive said:
If my search went right, it's limited to two memory channels anyway. So two or four stick - there should be no noticeable difference.
On the other hand, with two stick you will have free upgrade option for the future (I guess the usual motherboards has four slots).
Yeah I think you're right about two channels. What do you mean by having a free upgrade option in the future?
 
If you have two sticks in a four slot motherboard, then more memory is just buying two more sticks.
With all slots full, it's far more fuss.
 
O ok I see. I'm planning to max out the memory at 128 GB so I'm trying to figure out if I should go 2x64 or 4x32. It looks like there are far less options for 64 GB sticks though.
 
But if you get 2 x 64gb for 128gb then you have room to further expand to 256gb in the future.
 
KyleGranger said:
I'm planning to max out the memory at 128 GB
What kind of home computer software needs that kind of memory? Some kind of game? Massive data manipulation?
 
phinds said:
What kind of home computer software needs that kind of memory? Some kind of game? Massive data manipulation?
The CPU and motherboard max out at 128GB so I think I'll be running this amount for a while.

I'm running Ansys and Comsol. With multiple simulations, it's pretty taxing.
 
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