When ddr 5 RAM will be on sale. News about DDR5 and RAM. GDDR5 memory is not DDR5 RAM

RAM also called RAM(random access memory) or RAM(Random Access Memory, random access memory) is a device in which there are working in this moment programs and data for them. Any program must be loaded into RAM before execution, after which the processor will be able to sequentially retrieve the instructions of this program from memory and execute them. RAM, like the processor, is a necessary device - without it, the computer will not be able to work.

Data in RAM is stored only while the computer is running, when it is turned off RAM cleared.

RAM for a PC is made in the form of modules, which are a set of chips mounted on a special board with contacts. Memory modules inserted in special slots on the motherboard. The type of memory modules must be consistent with the type of motherboard and with the type of processor.

Memory modules differ both in design (form factor) and in functional type.

Form factor is a standard that defines the dimensions of a memory module, as well as the number and arrangement of pins. There are several physically incompatible memory form factors: SIMM (30 or 72 pins, hardly used at present), DIMM (168, 184, 200 or 240 pins), SODIMM (72, 144, 168 or 200 pins, reduced size) , MicroDIMM (60 pins, reduced size), RIMM (168, 184 or 242 pins, for Rambus type memory).

Any microcircuit (chip) of a memory module consists of a large number identical elementary cells, each cell is capable of storing 1 bit of data, i.e. can be in one of 2 states: 0 (off) or 1 (on), the transition from one state to another is carried out by applying a control pulse to this cell. Currently, 2 types of elementary memory cells are used.

triggers. These are cells consisting of 6-7 transistors each. The flip-flop is capable of holding the state 0 or 1 indefinitely as long as the supply voltage is applied to it.

capacitive cells. Each such cell consists of one transistor and one microcapacitor. Capacitive cells are much smaller and simpler in structure than flip-flops, but they have one significant drawback - they retain their state for a very limited time.

In accordance with the types of cells used, various functional types of memory are built.

1) Static memory SRAM(Static RAM) is built from flip-flops - this is the most reliable, but also the most expensive, bulky and energy-intensive type of memory. Static memory is used to build cache memory, buffer hard drive and for other most critical nodes.

2) dynamic memory DRAM(Dynamic RAM) is built from capacitive cells. However, one cannot limit oneself to capacitive cells only - such a memory can store data only for fractions of a second. Therefore, a necessary element of dynamic memory is buffer, consisting of triggers, and a necessary condition for the operation of such a memory is the regeneration process, which consists in constant automatic reading into the buffer of data from various blocks of capacitive cells and overwriting this data back. Thus, dynamic memory implements a continuous process of rewriting data through a buffer, which explains its name.

RAM installed in a PC is one of the main characteristics that determine the performance of a computer. The performance of a computer depends on the amount of RAM no less (and often more!) than on the clock frequency of the processor. This is due to the fact that modern software is characterized by a large amount of program code, and for the efficient operation of a computer, it is necessary that all currently running programs and all data for them be in RAM. If the running program does not fit into RAM, there is no crash - all or part of the program is unloaded to the hard disk - but the computer slows down dramatically. Thus, the amount of RAM should be sufficient in terms of the software used. For example, for an office computer, when using mainly Microsoft Office programs (MS Word, MS Excel, MS Power Point, MS Access) under the Windows XP operating system, at least 256 MB of RAM is required. When using a computer as a graphics station, for video editing or for three-dimensional games, you will need at least 1 GB of memory.

It should be noted that if the amount of RAM is such that all running programs are always placed in RAM, a further increase in the amount of memory will not improve the performance of the computer. Therefore, the amount of memory should always be chosen optimally, based on the tasks for which the computer will be used.

Another important parameter of memory is its peak performance (throughput), i.e. the maximum speed at which data read/write operations can occur. This value is determined by the type of memory, which, in turn, is determined by the type of motherboard. Bandwidth indicated by the number of bits transmitted per second, for example, PC-4200 (4200 Mb/s), PC-6000 (6000 Mb/s).

SK Hynix has unveiled details of the first DDR5 memory chip. The standard is not yet finalized by Jedec, but that has never stopped manufacturers.

The new memory should provide double the bandwidth and double the density compared to DDR4. Channel efficiency will also be improved. Dongkyun Kim, Chip Designer at Hynix, Unveils Chip Specification DDR memory 5. This chip is a 16GB SDRAM chip, running at 6.4Gb/s per pin. The supply voltage is 1.1 V, and the crystal area is 76.22 mm 2 . The chip is manufactured using 1y nm technology.

A number of new techniques have been applied to reduce noise on the chip, including a modified phase-reversal delay tracking loop and a feed-tracking oscillator. A special recording training system contributed to the increase in memory speed.

It is expected that the first market samples of DDR5 memory will appear at the end of this year.

PC5 DDR5 memory coming in 2020

February 13

Kim Dong-Kyun, a researcher at SK Hynix, said that PC5 DDR5 memory could hit the market as early as next year.

DDR5-5200 modules will be the first on the market, which is almost twice as high as DDR4-2666 initially. Don-Kune stated, “We are discussing several post-DDR5 concepts. One concept is to keep up with the current trend of faster data transfers, and the other is to combine DRAM technology with the process of system-on-a-chip technology such as the CPU.” The specialist did not give additional explanations.

Last year, SK Hynix created a working prototype, a 16 gigabit (2 GB) DDR5 DRAM chip, running at 5200 MT/s at 1.1V. 6 GB/s.

At the same time, SK Hynix has its own developments to improve the performance of DDR5 chips without violating standards. “We developed multi-phase timing, which keeps the voltage low during high-speed operations on the chip by placing multiple phases within the integrated circuit so that the power used on each phase is low, but the speed is high due to the combination,” said Kim.

He also said that the development of the DDR6 standard is already underway, which is tasked with doubling the bandwidth and densities in relation to DDR5.

The need to upgrade RAM is now caused not so much by the PC ecosystem as portable devices and electronics of self-driving cars.

SK Hynix Introduces 16GB DDR5 Chips

November 27, 2018

One of the largest manufacturers of RAM, SK Hynix, has developed a 16 GB DDR5 memory, which, according to the developers, is the first memory in the world that fully complies with JEDEC standards.

DDR5 is the next generation of RAM that will offer the highest speed and density at lower power consumption than DDR4. Memory is primarily intended for use in data-intensive industries such as Big Data, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

The new 16GB DRAM chips are manufactured using 1Ynm technology and support data transfer rates of 5200MB/s. The manufacturer expects these chips to enter mass production in 2020. It is expected that from now on DDR5 memory will be in great demand, and already in 2021 it will occupy 25% of the RAM market, and a year later - 44%.

Samsung is preparing 8-gigabit LPDDR5 chips

July 18, 2018

Samsung announced prototypes of 8-gigabit LPDDR5 memory, which the company is preparing in connection with preparations for 5G networks.

The South Korean giant has successfully tested 8 GB memory modules assembled from 8 8 GB LPDDR5 chips. This announcement is released along with the traditional promises for "Improve productivity" and "reducing energy consumption".

The presented memory uses the latest DDR5 specification, the development of which has not yet been completed. Theoretically, LPDDR5 memory can run at 6.4MB/s while LPDDR4X runs at 4.26MB/s.

The improved power consumption of the new memory is achieved by introducing a "deep sleep mode". As a result, compared to LPDDR4X, the power consumption of LPDDR5 is halved.

When LPDDR5 memory will be available is not yet clear, but Samsung has clearly prepared for this moment.

DDR5 coming in 2020

May 10, 2018

JEDEC is due to finalize the DDR5 memory specification this summer. Despite this, some manufacturers already have production samples of this type of memory.

Initially, DDR5 memory should have a frequency in the range from 4400 MHz to 6400 MHz. However, the main change in this memory will not be performance, but volume. It is expected that each chip core will have a capacity of up to 32 GB.

The fact is that there is a high demand for memory in the market, and modern tasks require a large amount of RAM. However, servers can only physically work with a limited number of modules. The new standard will allow manufacturers to produce 16 GB and 32 GB chips with built-in error correction. That is, the memory subsystem will get its own ECC. The standard is designed to optimize internal segmentation and reduce timings. In addition to increasing the core capacity to 32 GB, DDR5 memory will unify stacking, which will make it easier for manufacturers to create multi-core chips.

So far, the use of DDR5 memory is seen only in servers. The first use of DDR5 memory is expected to occur in 2019/2020, and its adoption will be rapid. Cadence, which has a working new type of memory chips, believes that DDR5 will overtake DDR4 by 2020.

Rambus: HBM3 to Double Bandwidth to 4,000 Mbps

December 26, 2017

A new slide from Rambus sheds some light on memory goals by showing the future of high bandwidth HBM3 and DDR5 memory.

The memory solutions designer noted that both types of chips will be made in 7 nm technology when ready to enter the market. So these memory solutions won't arrive until 2019. At the same time, the final specifications have not yet been approved and may still change in the future.

Rambus already has a working DDR5 prototype. The firm expects the official standard to target frequencies from 4800 MHz to 6400 MHz, which is twice that of DDR4.

The slide also reports that HBM3 will double the throughput of HBM2, but will have a more complex architecture design.

Rambus has a working DDR5 memory prototype

October 16, 2017

DDR5 memory should be the successor to the current DDR4, providing twice the bandwidth compared to current solutions. to appear new standard due in 2019.

The developer of the standard, JEDEC, says that the base frequency of DDR5 memory will be approximately 4800 MHz, which is even twice as high as DDR4 and ahead of the best examples. modern memory from G.Skill and Corsair, whose operating frequency reaches 4600 MHz.

The memory bandwidth will be 6.4 GB/s, delivering a maximum of 51.2 GB/s, double the current 3.2 GB/s and 25.6 GB/s. A new version also allows you to reduce the voltage of the 64-bit link to 1.1 V and increase the packet length from 8 to 16 bits at 1.2 V. Interestingly, the voltage regulation will be carried out on the memory bar itself, and not on the motherboard. Processor manufacturers expect to increase the number of memory channels from 12 to 16, which will double the amount of memory supported to 128 GB.

As for the price of memory, this question remains open, but given the current cost of memory, it is unlikely that the price jump will be too large.

Now the characteristics of DDR5 memory seem amazing, but the fact that there is a working prototype of this memory is even more impressive. Hemant Dulla, vice president of product marketing for Rambus, said: “…we are the first to receive DDR5 DIMM chip sets. We look forward to production in 2019 and we want to be first in the market to help partners launch the technology.”. About when the technology will be ready for the market, Dulla said: “… only a couple of blocks left, not a couple of years… Everyone wants a wider memory bus”.

JEDEC announces DDR5 memory

April 4, 2017

The JEDEC Association has announced the development of DDR5 memory that will offer improved performance and power efficiency over past DRAM technologies.

It is planned that the new memory will double the bandwidth compared to DDR4, as well as provide higher channel efficiency. This efficiency, along with a more user-friendly interface for servers and client machines, will provide high performance and improved power management across a wide range of applications.

As demand for DRAM capacity and speed increases, hybrid technology DIMMs such as the JEDEC NVDIMM-P will provide new memory solutions optimized for cost, power use and performance. In addition to the current NVDIMM-N standard, NVDIMM-P will offer new high-capacity modules for computing systems.

The association also announced that it plans to conduct in-depth technical work on DDR5 and NVDIMM-P memory to ensure a better understanding of the standard and faster adoption by the industry.

DDR5 specs will be finalized this year

August 24, 2016

During the IDF, it was said that we will see at least one more DDR memory specification.

Now there is confirmation that JEDEC is preparing the first version of the DDR5 specification by the end of this year. However, before the release of this memory on the market will have to wait another 4 years.

Previously, some experts pointed out that DDR4 will be the last DDR4 memory specification, after which there will be a transition to more advanced RAM, such as PCM (phase-variable RAM) or MRAM (magnetoresistive memory). However, this type of memory is still under development and may be too expensive to manufacture. Also, the industry does not yet feel the need for a new, faster type of memory, however, such areas as virtual reality can stimulate its development.

DDR5 memory will offer smaller and denser chips that will be manufactured using advanced manufacturing processes. The DDR4 specification, approved many years ago, does not take into account the capabilities of the current 14 nm and 10 nm technologies, but relies on 40 and 50 nm standards.

It is noted that DDR5 memory will last until 2025, after which a new type of RAM will be introduced.

The change of generations of RAM has always been slow, with huge amount approvals, a significant delay between the specifications "on paper" and the first modules "in hardware". But DDR4 has not even had time to become boring, and will soon be recognized as an obsolete standard. Why such a rush, and will the new standard turn out to be a “marketing dummy”?

How SDRAMs see off - not at all like GPUs

The revolutions that the JEDEC standardization committee has been talking about for so long are happening much more slowly than they are approved on paper. If we leave aside the battle "DDR SDRAM vs RDRAM" and focus on modernity, a gulf has opened between the initial specifications of the DDR-II standard in 2002 and the release of memory to the people. The first commercial low-frequency DDR2-533 modules in 2004 competed with grief in half with their predecessors in the face of DDR-400, and the throughput grew only at the cost of a terrifying increase in delays. DDR2 became really useful in 2005, when processors with a frequency of system bus 1066 MHz, and Intel released the mainstream i965 chipsets for the Core 2 Duo in 2006. That is, from the moment of the announcement, it took four years for DDR2 to stop being part of the "technological advances exhibition" and become a really efficient and inexpensive type of memory.

The transition from DDR2 to DDR3 was much faster - in 2007, Intel rolled out P35 Express chipsets (for Core 2 Duo when they were in their prime) with support for a new type of RAM. It is now that the controllers have moved under the cover of the processor and, more often than not, the CPU decides what memory the computer will work with. And in the recent past, you could change the memory to DDR3 by buying a new motherboard - no one "asked for the opinion" of the processor, which was designed in the DDR2 era.

Motherboards based on the Intel P35 chipset were released with a DDR2 and DDR3 controller (photo: Legitreviews)

AMD already in those years moved the RAM controller under the processor cover, but endowed it with support for both DDR2 and DDR3. Even sockets pleased with commendable backward compatibility (but today, buyers of flagship motherboards for LGA1151 with the release of new processors for the same LGA1151 have to buy a new board, param-pam-pam). There is no money - you hold on with luck and good mood, you install the new Athlon on a motherboard with an AM2 + socket and are content with DDR2 support.

And if you have a budget, you buy a new motherboard and DDR3 memory, and even bring the frequency from the "children's" 1066 to 1600 MHz and enjoy the performance. Yes, many motherboards overestimated the timings, and not every manufacturer produced modules capable of reaching the 1600 MHz mark (Kingston, as you understand, did!). But already in 2009, the difference in price between DDR2 and DDR3 disappeared, so all buyers of new PCs were happy to upgrade to a more promising type of memory.

And with the release of the first AMD APUs and the abolition of Core 2 Quad in favor of the first Intel Core (Nehalem), DDR3 became mainstream and ... hung in this position for another 7 years, even taking into account the fact that the first DDR4 prototype module “lit up” yet in 2008.
DDR4 has become such a long-term project for many reasons. Partly due to the bureaucracy within JEDEC, and as the technical processes improved, DDR3 became obsolete very slowly. Stagnation in processor performance and a drop in PC sales, as you understand, also did not contribute to investment in R&D.

Hybrid processors have become the best illustration of why DDR3 is needed in comparison with DDR2

But DDR4 brought with it everything at once - higher frequencies, doubled capacity, improved reliability, and even a new architecture for accessing modules, which was already really lacking. But from the publication date of the standard in 2012 to the first mainstream platforms using DDR4 ( Intel Skylake) has been three years. If Intel had not motivated enthusiasts in the style of the Ministry of Health (these overclocking DDR3 memory modules of yours harm the processor, use DDR3L, which you do not have), the introduction of DDR4 would have dragged on for another large quantity time. AMD introduced support for a new type of memory, first in niche Bristol Ridge APUs for assembled computers (autumn 2016), and chips with RyZEN with support for DDR4 (Socket AM4) appeared in wide retail ... in the spring of 2017. 5 years after the approval of the DDR4 standard! Is the introduction of DDR5 stretched into the same epic?

Declaration of intent

They started talking about the development of the DDR5 standard a year ago, at the Intel Developer Forum 2016. Then it became known that JEDEC was already standardizing a new type of memory, and even intended to complete this procedure before the end of 2016. But they didn't.

The next round, “now for sure!” with the participation of the standardization committee took place in March 2017. JEDEC issued a statement that market participants can get acquainted with the preliminary specifications as early as June 19 at the Server Forum in California, and the final approval of the standard will take place only in 2018. So far, little has been heard about the release of memory modules on the market - most of the "predictors" point to 2020, although Rambus reports that the development of DDR5 is already in full swing and, they say, "we plan to start mass production in 2019." Another thing is that not all manufacturers of chips and motherboards will be able to quickly switch to the production of a new type of RAM.

“We have become better at transmitting data”

So far, the loudest and most catchy statement about DDR5 is “doubling the performance” compared to DDR4. For example, frequency doubling - the slowest subspecies, judging by the early statements of JEDEC, will be DDR5-4800, and variants up to DDR5-6400 will go into initial production. That is, with a 64-bit bus, modules with a performance of about 6.4 Gb / s (against 3.2 Gb / s for DDR4) and a bandwidth of 51.2 GB / s are expected. The base process technology for DDR5 will be 10nm.

DDR5 module preliminary design

Where will these improvements be needed? First of all, in the server market, where DDR5 will be sent first. In home PCs, the highest bandwidth will come in handy in computers adapted for VR. And, in theory, in integrated graphics, although in this role DDR5 will be too expensive.

The voltage in DDR5 will not decrease so noticeably (from 1.2 V for DDR4 to 1.1 V for DDR5), so they are no longer flaunted in beautiful statements. In a short period, relative to the entry into the DDR4 market, JEDEC promises to change the module access architecture again so that the efficiency does not drop so noticeably as memory channels grow. There is no word yet on a specific implementation.
And a completely new, more user-friendly interface. Will we install "RAM" in computers in a new way?

Samsung talks about key features DDR5

By the way, in case you suddenly didn’t know, GDDR5 in video cards is not DDR5, but “tuned” for the needs of DDR3 graphics accelerators. Therefore, do not flatter yourself - the future of RAM has not yet arrived, but is about to come.

“Soon there will be no DDR at all”

Even JEDEC itself is developing an alternative to volatile RAM, and this type of memory is called NVDIMM-P. But this variety will not compete with DDR5 SDRAM - its essence lies in the simultaneous access to DRAM and NAND for each module. That is, the market expects the release of high-capacity non-volatile memory. A useful solution for data centers where it is important not to lose data during an accident and cache logs, but DDR5 remains unrivaled in terms of price and performance. NVDIMM-P, which has evolved from NVDIMM-N (dumps data in emergency situations to NAND flash) and NVDIMM-F (roughly speaking, an SSD drive in the role of RAM) will compete for space in the sun with Optane DIMMs - Intel threatens to establish production of this type of non-volatile memory next year.

NVDIMM-P is our server future

Due to the high cost, one should not wait for DDR5 to be replaced by promising HBM2 memory - it is now used in moderation to get around the problem of energy efficiency overclocked to the limit of GDDR5 in high-performance graphics accelerators. Even in mobile computers it is rarely used due to its high cost and low critical temperature thresholds.

And finally, the last "unlikely" opponent of DDR5 is Micron's Hybrid Memory Cube (HMC). These are such multilayer modules with 3D DRAM memory and control logic. 5 times faster than DDR4, but too expensive and currently only used in high performance industrial PCs.

Multilayer memory Hybrid Memory Cube - the development of Micron Technology. The most formidable competitor of DDR5

It is difficult to predict with complete certainty how much PC components will change in 2019-2020 - there are too many unknowns. But you can guess, and how!
In the server market, DDR5 will not “take off” immediately (it will take time for the new standard to become more profitable from an economic point of view, and server platforms are being upgraded in stages), but seriously and for a long time. It is unlikely that before 2021 the penetration of “nextgen RAM” will become noticeable.

With home computers, it's even more difficult. New memory controllers will appear either in the ninth (Cannon Lake) or tenth (Ice Lake) generation Intel processors core. Cannon Lake, according to the latest rumors, will be released at the end of 2018, and will be a "restyling" of the current Coffee Lake based on a 10 nm process technology. That is, changes in the architecture will be rather cosmetic, and the appearance of new memory controllers in it is unlikely. This version is also supported by the fact that the debut of Cannon Lake was scheduled for the second half of 2017, and was only postponed due to difficulties with the introduction of a new technical process.

Intel Ice Lake processors may come out later because their predecessor is delayed to market

But there is also a possibility that Cannon Lake and Ice Lake will be released almost simultaneously - similar to the situation with Broadwell - Skylake in 2015, when desktop processors based on different architectures (and socket!) Came out with an interval of 3 months. Or Cannon Lake will come to laptops and nowhere else. In this light, the emergence of platforms with support for DDR5 in late 2018 - early 2019 looks quite likely.

Rumors say that Ice Lake chips will be compatible with the already familiar LGA 1151 socket and Intel's flagship Coffee Lake chipset, the Z930. That is, they will receive a hybrid memory controller to work with DDR4 / DDR5. The update promises to be impressive enough (they even promise 8 cores in the mass segment!) to wait for the release of this platform. But it’s certainly not worth waiting for it in order to “jump” to DDR5 - as in the old days, the first modules based on the new standard will be comparable to older DDR4 options in terms of performance, and, there is a risk, they will be inferior in latency and price . Therefore, buying a motherboard based on the Intel Z390 chipset, filling it with the necessary amount of DDR4 memory and “starting to live” with a processor of a suitable performance would be the best option. Upgrading to Ice Lake and using it in tandem with cheap DDR4 overclocked to the limit will be more reasonable than overpaying for modules that do not even reveal the potential of the new standard.

With AMD, the situation looks similar - AMD Senior Product Manager James Prior (James Prior) recently assured buyers that the AM4 platform will last at least until 2020 and all new desktop AMD processors will be backwards compatible. In the first half of 2019, AMD intends to release Pinnacle Ridge processors - the same architectural nuances as in the first generation of Zen, only overclocked and slightly optimized. Processors based on the new Zen 2 cores will appear only in the second half of 2019 and will be thoroughly improved compared to the first generation - in addition to the new architecture with a higher number of executable instructions per clock, AMD promises a 7nm process technology and a lot of new things. Such a leap is already worth it to radically upgrade the platform, including RAM, but there is a risk that GlobalFoundries will not have time to deploy production based on the new process technology in the required volume by the end of 2019, and Zen 2 will move to 2020.

DDR5 controller will appear in processors based on Zen 2 cores, and even that is not a fact

Therefore, DDR4 will not lose its positions for a very long time, and all processors of the near future will be compatible with this memory standard. And if so, there is no point in hiding and saving money to buy new-style modules. You just need to choose the right platform (in the case of Intel) or be patient after buying an AM4-based computer (in the case of AMD) and buy DDR4 now, because memory chip manufacturers are already raising prices for DDR4 to “beat off” the development and introduction of DDR5 in the near future.

RAM is getting more and more expensive

What does DDR4 offer us today?

The prices for DDR4 caught up with the prices for DDR3 back in early 2016, and today it is not only fashionable, stylish and youthful to assemble a PC on the "fourth" SDRAM, but also more profitable than to fence "retro" on Socket 1150 with expensive processors, or, moreover, look for the remains of efficient and high-quality motherboards for Socket 1155 based on DDR3.

As in the past, memory is divided according to purpose and ability. At Kingston, for example, the model line consists of:

Kingston ValueRAM- the most affordable DDR4 option for those who have enough regular frequencies, and do not want to delve into overclocking or “fire up” the computer in any other way. 2133 MHz with CL15 timings or 2400 MHz with CL17.

HyperX Fury- not yet "extreme", but no longer "civilian modules". The golden mean in terms of price and performance. From inexpensive 4GB 2133MHz CL14 modules to 8GB/2666MHz CL16 and 16GB 2400MHz CL15 stock.

HyperX Predator- the most "evil" and fast memory. Cool radiators for heat dissipation during maximum overclocking (useful in compact systems), the highest frequencies in the basic version and support for an incredible number of Intel XMP profiles for elementary overclocking "for all the money." Sold in sets of modules with a capacity of 8 to 16 GB, the latest revisions have options with base frequency 4000 (!) MHz.

Story random access memory, or RAM, began back in 1834, when Charles Babbage developed the "analytical engine" - in fact, the prototype of a computer. Part of this machine, which was responsible for storing intermediate data, he called the "warehouse". Memorization of information there was organized in a purely mechanical way, by means of shafts and gears.

In the first generations of computers, cathode-ray tubes, magnetic drums were used as RAM, later magnetic cores appeared, and after them, in the third generation of computers, memory on microcircuits appeared.

Now the RAM is performed according to the technology DRAM in form factors DIMMs and SO-DIMMs, it dynamic memory, organized as integrated circuits semiconductors. It is volatile, that is, the data disappears when there is no power.

The choice of RAM is not a difficult task today, the main thing here is to understand the types of memory, its purpose and main characteristics.

Memory types

SODIMM

SO-DIMM form factor memory is designed for use in laptops, compact ITX systems, monoblocks - in a word, where the minimum physical size of memory modules is important. It differs from the DIMM form factor by a module length reduced by about 2 times, and a smaller number of pins on the board (204 and 360 pins for SO-DIMM DDR3 and DDR4 versus 240 and 288 for boards of the same types of DIMM memory).
In terms of other characteristics - frequency, timings, volume, SO-DIMM modules can be any, and they do not differ from DIMMs in any fundamental way.

DIMM

DIMM - random access memory for full-size computers.
The type of memory you choose must first of all be compatible with the socket on the motherboard. RAM for a computer is divided into 4 types - DDR, DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4.

DDR memory appeared in 2001 and had 184 pins. The supply voltage ranged from 2.2 to 2.4 V. The operating frequency was 400 MHz. Still found on sale, however, the choice is small. Today, the format is outdated - it is suitable only if you do not want to completely update the system, and in the old motherboard the connectors are only for DDR.

The DDR2 standard was released already in 2003, it received 240 pins, which increased the number of threads, decently speeding up the data transfer bus to the processor. The operating frequency of DDR2 could be up to 800 MHz (in some cases - up to 1066 MHz), and the supply voltage from 1.8 to 2.1 V - slightly less than that of DDR. Consequently, the power consumption and heat dissipation of the memory have been reduced.
DDR2 vs DDR Differences:

240 contacts vs 120
· New slot not compatible with DDR
Less power consumption
Improved design, better cooling
Higher maximum operating frequency

Also, like DDR, an outdated type of memory - now it’s only suitable for old motherboards, in other cases it makes no sense to buy, since the new DDR3 and DDR4 are faster.

In 2007, RAM was updated with the DDR3 type, which is still massively distributed. The same 240 pins remain, but the connection slot for DDR3 has changed - there is no compatibility with DDR2. The frequency of the modules is on average from 1333 to 1866 MHz. There are also modules with frequencies up to 2800 MHz.
DDR3 is different from DDR2:

· DDR2 and DDR3 slots are not compatible.
· The clock speed of DDR3 is 2 times higher - 1600 MHz versus 800 MHz for DDR2.
Differs in a reduced supply voltage - about 1.5V, and lower power consumption (in the version DDR3L this value is on average even lower, about 1.35 V).
· Delays (timings) DDR3 more than DDR2, but the operating frequency is higher. In general, the speed of DDR3 is 20-30% higher.

DDR3 is a good choice today. Many motherboards sell DDR3 memory slots, and due to the massive popularity of this type, it is unlikely to disappear soon. It's also slightly cheaper than DDR4.

DDR4 is a new type of RAM developed only in 2012. It is an evolutionary development of the previous types. Memory bandwidth has increased again, now reaching 25.6 GB/s. The operating frequency has also risen - on average from 2133 MHz to 3600 MHz. If we compare the new type with DDR3, which lasted on the market for 8 years and became widespread, then the performance gain is insignificant, and besides, not all motherboards and processors support the new type.
DDR4 differences:

Incompatibility with previous types
Reduced supply voltage - from 1.2 to 1.05 V, power consumption also decreased
Operating memory frequency up to 3200 MHz (can reach 4166 MHz in some brackets), while, of course, proportionally increased timings
May slightly outperform DDR3

If you already have DDR3 sticks, then there is no point in rushing to change them to DDR4. When this format spreads massively, and all motherboards already support DDR4, the transition to a new type will happen by itself with an update of the entire system. Thus, we can summarize that DDR4 is more of a marketing than a really new type of RAM.

What memory frequency to choose?

Choosing a frequency should begin with checking the maximum supported frequencies by your processor and motherboard. It makes sense to take a frequency higher than supported by the processor only when overclocking the processor.

Today, you should not choose memory with a frequency below 1600 MHz. The 1333 MHz option is acceptable in the case of DDR3, if these are not old modules lying around at the seller, which will obviously be slower than new ones.

The best option for today is memory with a frequency interval from 1600 to 2400 MHz. A higher frequency has almost no advantage, but costs much more, and is usually overclocked modules with raised timings. For example, the difference between modules at 1600 and 2133 MHz in a number of work programs will be no more than 5-8%, in games the difference can be even less. Frequencies in 2133-2400 MHz are worth taking if you are engaged in video / audio encoding, rendering.

The difference between the frequencies of 2400 and 3600 MHz will cost you quite a lot, without adding any noticeable speed.

How much RAM to take?

The amount you need depends on the type of work being done on the computer, the operating system installed, and the programs you use. Also, do not lose sight of the maximum amount of memory supported by your motherboard.

Volume 2 GB- for today, it may be enough only for browsing the Internet. Will eat more than half operating system, the rest is enough for the leisurely work of undemanding programs.

Volume 4 GB- suitable for a medium-sized computer, for a home PC media center. Enough to watch movies, and even play undemanding games. Modern - alas, with difficulty pull. (Becomes the best choice, if you have a 32-bit Windows operating system that sees no more than 3 GB of RAM)

Volume 8 GB(or a set of 2x4GB) - the recommended volume for today for a full-fledged PC. This is enough for almost any game, to work with any resource-demanding software. Best choice for general purpose computer.

16 GB (or 2x8GB, 4x4GB sets) will be justified if you work with graphics, heavy programming environments, or constantly render video. Also great for online streaming - here with 8 GB there can be freezes, especially when high quality video broadcast. Some games at high resolutions and with HD textures may perform better with 16 GB of RAM on board.

Volume 32 GB(set 2x16GB, or 4x8GB) - so far a very controversial choice, it will come in handy for some very extreme work tasks. It would be better to spend money on other computer components, this will have a stronger effect on its performance.

Operating modes: better 1 stick of memory or 2?

RAM can operate in single-channel, dual-, three- and four-channel modes. Definitely, if your motherboard has a sufficient number of slots, then it is better to take several identical smaller ones instead of one memory bar. The speed of access to them will increase from 2 to 4 times.

In order for the memory to work in dual-channel mode, you need to install brackets in slots of the same color on the motherboard. As a rule, the color is repeated through the connector. It is important at the same time that the memory frequency in the two bars is the same.

- Single channel mode– single-channel operation mode. Turns on when one stick of memory is installed, or different modules operating at different frequencies. As a result, the memory runs at the frequency of the slowest bar.
- dual mode– two-channel mode. Works only with memory modules of the same frequency, increases the speed by 2 times. Manufacturers produce specially for this kits of memory modules, in which there can be 2 or 4 identical strips.
-Triple Mode- works on the same principle as the two-channel. In practice, it is not always faster.
- Quad mode- four-channel mode, which works on the principle of two-channel, respectively, increasing the speed of work by 4 times. It is used where exceptionally high speed is needed - for example, in servers.

- Flex Mode- a more flexible version of the two-channel mode of operation, when the bars are of different volumes, but only the frequency is the same. In this case, the same volumes of modules will be used in dual-channel mode, and the remaining volume will operate in single-channel mode.

Does memory need a heatsink?

Now is not the time when, at a voltage of 2 V, an operating frequency of 1600 MHz was reached, and as a result, a lot of heat was generated, which had to be somehow removed. Then the heatsink could be a criterion for the survival of an overclocked module.

At present, memory power consumption has dropped significantly, and a heatsink on a module can be justified from a technical point of view only if you are fond of overclocking, and the module will operate at frequencies beyond its limits. In all other cases, radiators can be justified, perhaps, by a beautiful design.

If the heatsink is massive and noticeably increases the height of the memory bar, this is already a significant disadvantage, since it can prevent you from installing a processor supercooler in the system. By the way, there are special low-profile memory modules designed for installation in compact enclosures. They are slightly more expensive than regular sized modules.

What are timings?

Timings, or latency (latency)- one of the most important characteristics RAM, which determine its speed. Let us outline the general meaning of this parameter.

Simplified, RAM can be represented as a two-dimensional table in which each cell carries information. Cells are accessed by specifying the column and row number, and this is indicated by the row access strobe. RAS(Row Access Strobe) and column access gate CAS (Acess Strobe) by changing the voltage. Thus, for each cycle of work there are calls RAS and CAS, and there are certain delays between these accesses and write / read commands, which are called timings.

In the description of the RAM module, you can see five timings, which for convenience are written as a sequence of numbers separated by a hyphen, for example 8-9-9-20-27 .

· tRCD (time of RAS to CAS Delay)- timing, which determines the delay from the RAS pulse to CAS
· CL (time of CAS Latency)- timing, which determines the delay between the write / read command and the CAS pulse
· tRP (time of Row Precharge)- timing, which determines the delay in transitions from one line to the next
· tRAS (time of Active to Precharge Delay)- timing, which determines the delay between the activation of the line and the end of work with it; is considered the main value
· command rate– determines the delay between the command to select a single chip on the module until the command to activate the line; this timing is not always indicated.

To put it even more simply, it is important to know only one thing about timings - the smaller their values, the better. At the same time, the bars can have the same frequency of operation, but different timings, and a module with lower values ​​will always be faster. So it is worth choosing the minimum timings, for DDR4 the timings of 15-15-15-36 will be the benchmark for average values, for DDR3 - 10-10-10-30. It is also worth remembering that the timings are related to the memory frequency, so when overclocking, you will most likely have to raise the timings, and vice versa - you can manually lower the frequency, while lowering the timings. It is most beneficial to pay attention to the totality of these parameters, choosing rather a balance, and not chasing the extreme values ​​of the parameters.

How to decide on a budget?

With more money, you can afford more RAM. The main difference between cheap and expensive modules will be in timings, frequency of operation, and in the brand - well-known, advertised ones can cost a little more than noname modules from an incomprehensible manufacturer.
In addition, the radiator installed on the modules costs extra money. Not all planks need it, but manufacturers now do not skimp on them.

The price will also depend on the timings, the lower they are, the higher the speed, and, accordingly, the price.

So, having up to 2000 rubles, you can purchase a 4 GB memory module, or 2 x 2 GB modules, which is preferable. Choose depending on what your PC configuration allows. Modules like DDR3 will cost almost half as much as DDR4. With such a budget, it is more reasonable to take DDR3.

To the group up to 4000 rubles Includes 8 GB modules and 2x4 GB kits. This is the best choice for any task, except for professional work with video, and in any other heavy environments.

Into the amount up to 8000 rubles The amount of memory will cost 16 GB. Recommended for professional purposes, or for avid gamers - enough even in reserve, waiting for new demanding games.

If not a problem to spend up to 13000 rubles, then the best choice would be to put them in a set of 4 sticks of 4 GB. For this money, you can even choose prettier radiators, possibly for subsequent overclocking.

I don’t advise taking more than 16 GB without the purpose of working in professional heavy environments (and even then not in all), but if you really want to, then for the amount from 13000 rubles you can climb Olympus by purchasing a 32 GB or even 64 GB kit. True, this will not make much sense for an ordinary user or gamer - it is better to spend money on, say, a flagship video card.

And now I want to talk about DDR5 memory. A look into the future, so to speak. So what exactly is DDR5 RAM and what should you expect from it? And anyway, when can we expect it?

Read immediately the updated information about DDR5 from 09/25/2017 just below in the article

A specific release date for DDR5 RAM has not yet been announced, but it is predicted to appear by 2020. Although, according to JEDEC, in 2018 we will already see the final specifications and characteristics of DDR5 memory. It is already being actively developed.

And what is known about the characteristics? Very little. It plans to double the clock speed compared to DDR4 RAM, the top one today. The density of chips will also increase, which will allow to increase the volume of each DDR5 RAM bar twice (again compared to DDR4). And again, as with every previous new generation of RAM, energy efficiency will be improved. True, there is still no exact information with what voltage DDR5 RAM will work ( already available, see below).

Update (September 2017)

Rejoice reader! DDR5 RAM is planned to be released a little earlier than promised. The release has been postponed to 2019. That is a year ago.

DDR5 RAM - project

In addition, there appeared new information about the characteristics of DDR5 memory. The operating frequency of the RAM will start at 4800 Mhz. But to what heights she will get, one can only fantasize. Despite the fact that in the previous generation (DDR4) the frequency started at 2133 MHz, and now some representatives of this memory can boast a frequency of 4600 MHz.

Of course " too brilliant“But if you apply a simple proportion, then theoretically you can expect DDR5 RAM frequencies to rise above 10,000 MHz in the future.

4600 / 2133 * 4800 = 10351… Mhz

Wait and see!

Now about the operating voltage. It became known that the voltage will continue to decline and in the coming generation will drop to 1.1 Volts. Not a very big breakthrough in this direction, but it is.

Previous generations worked on the following indicators:

• DDR1-2.5V
• DDR2-1.8V
• DDR3-1.5V
• DDR3L-1.3V
• DDR3U-1.25V
• DDR4-1.2V
• DDR5-1.1V

GDDR5 memory is not DDR5 RAM

To avoid a little confusion, it should be mentioned about GDDR5 video memory. Now almost every modern video card has this type of memory. But GDDR5 memory has nothing to do with DDR5 RAM. Technologically, GDDR5 is the same DDR3, only tailored for a video card. Just like GDDR3, it was technologically identical to DDR2 memory. Do not confuse!

By the way, it will be said that a motherboard that supports video cards with GDDR3 graphic memory will just as well support video cards with GDDR5 memory. This is somewhat different from RAM, where the interface of its connection (slot) changes for each new generation of RAM.

The most important conclusion from this point is that DDR5 and GDDR5 are completely different things!

Conclusion:

These are the things we have with DDR5 RAM. We wait. Although now a lot of people are still sitting on DDR3, they just can’t switch to DDR4. But I think it's not for long. Soon DDR4 will completely replace DDR3. It remains only to sympathize with those who assemble new computers based on DDR3, unless their motherboard supports both types of memory.

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