Optimizing Memory Performance of Lenovo Servers Based on Intel Xeon E7 v3 Processors

This paper examines the architecture and memory performance of Lenovo System x and Flex System X6 platforms that are based on the Intel Xeon E7-8800 and E7-4800 v3 processors. The performance analysis in this paper covers memory latency, bandwidth, and application performance. In addition, the paper describes performance issues that are related to CPU frequency, memory speed, and population of memory DIMMs. Finally, the paper examines optimal memory configurations and best practices for the Lenovo X6 platforms.

1. Introduction
2. System Architecture
3. Memory Performance
   • Measurement Configuration
   • Memory Modes
   • Memory Speed
   • DIMM Types
   • Ranks per Channel
   • Memory Population and Balance
   • Different DIMM Capacities and RPC Effect on Memory Throughput
4. Balancing Memory Population on X6 Platforms
5. Power Consumption
6. Best Practices
7. Conclusion
8. Authors

Changes in the April 4 update:

• Grammar & spelling corrections

Related product families

Product families related to this document are the following:

• 4-Socket Rack Servers
• 8-Socket Rack Servers
• Blade Servers
• Memory
• Mission Critical Servers
• Processors