How to Check if Your RAM is ECC or Non-ECC on Windows PC

Let’s explore how you can determine whether your RAM is ECC (Error-Correcting Code) or non-ECC on a Windows PC.

 Let’s dive into a detailed guide on how to determine whether your RAM is ECC (Error-Correcting Code) or non-ECC on a Windows PC. I’ll cover various methods, including command-line tools and third-party utilities.

1. Using Command Prompt or PowerShell:

• Open Command Prompt or PowerShell by searching for it in the Start menu.
• Run the following command:wmic MemoryChip get DataWidth,TotalWidth
• If the TotalWidth value is larger than the DataWidth value, you have ECC memory. For non-ECC memory, both values will be the same.
• Example output:// ECC Memory DataWidth TotalWidth 64 72 // Non-ECC Memory DataWidth TotalWidth 64 64

2. Using Another Command:

• Run the following command to get a code indicating the type of memory installed:wmic MemPhysical get MemoryErrorCorrection
• The code meanings are as follows:
  • 0: Reserved
  • 1: Other
  • 2: Unknown
  • 3: None (non-ECC)
  • 4: Parity
  • 5: Single-bit ECC
  • 6: Multi-bit ECC
  • 7: CRC

3. Third-Party Tools:

• You can download and install tools like Speccy to determine whether you have ECC or non-ECC memory modules.
• Additionally, refer to your computer’s or motherboard’s manual to check the type of memory installed.

Remember that ECC memory is more common in servers and workstations, while non-ECC memory is suitable for most personal computers. Ensure compatibility with your system before upgrading your RAM.