When I was a Purchasing Agent, I knew every spec concerning RAM modules, but recently the only question I ever see is about RAM capacity, and not speed. Obliviously you need to match RAM to your motherboard, but aside from that, how often does the topic of RAM speed surface?

I never get this question. You've made a good point, and perhaps I'll publish such hardware specs to clients & potentials. Speed & Timing are very important IMO.

In the same vein, does type of RAM ever play into your pre-sales discussions?

I suspect it would on dedicated services, but I don't offer dedicated(yet) hence me "suspecting". I always get these details from the DC if I'm leasing servers, so must many others I guess.

I asked this because I rarely hear any questions related to RAM other than "How Much?" And it certainly can affect your server's performance.

Most dedicated server providers don't show that information since nobody asks about it, or wouldn't know what it ment. And I have a feeling that most providers buy the cheapest ram they can get since most people only look for xGB's of ram.

Occasionally our customers will ask about the RAM speed, but that has never been a factor in their purchase. Majority of the servers out there use DDR2-667 or DDR3-1333 for the i7 boards.

You're absolutely right - the majority do. But I see the topic of desktops being used for servers from time to time, and wonder about their performance and stability.

Server boards have different functions than desktop boards, however if you don't plan on utilizing those additional function you can stick with a desktop board. It all depends what you want to do with the machine. We prefer using Supermicro in all our servers since they seem to be the most reliable and power efficient.

Ask http://joesdatacenter.com/
He uses many desktop components. I had a nice talk with hima while back were he explained that although he may have to replace desktop components more, in the long run it's cheaper, hence his prices.

If was enough for me to try out a server with him.. No complaints.

This is great! Now I want to see your ways for us readers to become more involved! Expect an email later today.

I have never received a question about the speed of our RAM. We used to display it on our site but we decided to remove it in the end. It doesn't seem to be in the front of people's minds really.

Yeah, hardly worth the space in FAQ, as it's not a FAQ, but I'd still like to put it somewhere.

We don't publish it either as its never asked about. Strange because it can make a difference in performance.

nobody asks details about ram other then how much