Modern types of memory DDR, DDR2, DDR3 for desktop computers. Types of ddr

DDR3 memory module— the question of choosing RAM for a computer arises immediately after purchasing a processor or video card. RAM is one of the main components of the system, without which it simply will not work. User demands are growing and forcing computer technology to develop. It seems that just recently a few megabytes were enough for normal work, but today the number is already counting towards gigabytes. Demanding programs and even more power-hungry games require more and more RAM. So how to choose the right RAM for a computer or laptop in 2016? We will try to fully answer this pressing question in today’s article.

RAM: what is it and why is it needed?

Before moving on to the technical parameters, it is necessary to define what RAM is and why it is needed. Random Access Memory (random access memory) is a energy-dependent part of the computer that stores the executing program code, as well as processor data, during operation. Simply put, RAM is either ddr3 memory module serves as a kind of warehouse where files are stored and await further delivery. When you turn off your computer, all data on it is erased. In common parlance it is often called “memory” and “RAM”.

Each executable program is first loaded into RAM, and only then implemented by the processor. If there is not enough memory, the application is loaded in parts. Therefore, the larger the amount of RAM, the faster the computer runs. This also includes the clock frequency, but more on that below. Without RAM, your laptop or computer simply will not turn on.

First of all

The correct choice of RAM and as one of the options ddr3 memory module, is not only about buying a module with a huge volume. First of all, you should take into account the processor model and type of RAM. Like many other system components, RAM modules are not universal. RAM modules are installed in a slot on the motherboard, which only supports certain types, which will be discussed below. The processor, as you might guess, also works directly with the “material”.

There is a constant relationship between these components. The failure of at least one of them disrupts the performance of the entire system. A processor that does not fit the socket to the motherboard will, of course, not work at all. But the RAM, if it fits the form factor (we’ll talk about them too), will most likely function. But there will be compatibility problems, and performance will remain low.

In order to choose the right RAM for a laptop or computer, the first thing you should do is visit the website of the motherboard manufacturer. Here you will find out the supported types and other important information.

RAM type

After all the digressions, we will first of all talk about the types of RAM, it will also be mentioned ddr3 memory module. It is this parameter that, first of all, users and sellers themselves pay attention to. Modern devices most often use the DDR SDRAM type. It is not only the most popular, but also effective.

Manufacturers are constantly improving it. Recently, DDR and DDR2 modules have been installed everywhere. Today, they are only remembered by experienced, old PC users. They have been replaced by DDR3 RAM (clocked at up to 2400 MHz), which is more efficient. In 2016, DDR4 (operating at frequencies up to 4266 MHz) is gaining popularity.

You can still find DDR2, and even DDR. They are not particularly in demand, and they are significantly more expensive than their modern brothers. It looks more profitable to purchase a new mother memory, for which you can buy the latest types of RAM.

Despite the growing popularity of DDR4, DDR3 memory is still relevant. If you are short on funds or performance is not important, then you can safely take the third generation RAM.

RAM capacity

Another important parameter that many users make the most important when choosing RAM, this may be ddr3 memory module. Like, the more, the better. Yes, we can agree with this, but with some reservations. Often, fans of modern games install memory modules in every free slot. But only a certain part of it is used, and the rest plays the role of ballast, for which you have to overpay.

The main component responsible for performance is the processor. RAM, as mentioned above, plays the role of storage of executable files. As long as the total amount of RAM is not exceeded, everything works at full capacity. As soon as it is full, the system begins to use hard disk resources. Due to the specification of the hard drive, the speed of the computer is seriously degraded.

In general, you should choose the amount of RAM in 2016 based on the intensity with which you load your personal computer or laptop. Keep in mind that modern operating systems require about 1 GB for personal requests.

• 2-4 GB. This amount of RAM is recommended for budget systems. For
  watching movies, working with documents and visiting the Internet, 2 GB is enough. But
  4 GB recommended.
• 4-8 GB. For a general purpose computer, 4 GB is sufficient in most cases. If you love
  play, use resource-intensive programs, we recommend installing 8 GB
  random access memory.
• 16 GB. Today, this amount of RAM is enough for a gaming computer.
  Buying more only makes sense for some games that will be released in the near future.
• 32 GB or more. This volume is intended for specialized systems. However
  much depends on the tasks the machine is aimed at.

Surveys and tests show that today users only need 8 GB of RAM. And few games require more volume. It makes sense to acquire memory for the future, but with some nuances. Most likely, before you use all the capacity, the processor will become obsolete. As we have already established, RAM does not work with every “stone”, which will entail a possible replacement of modules.

Keep in mind that 32-bit operating systems see only 3.5 GB, and the rest of the volume will simply not be visible. 64-bit versions do not suffer from this problem.

RAM characteristics

In addition to type and capacity, RAM, for example: ddr3 memory module has several more characteristics that directly affect the efficiency of its work. The most important of them are frequency and timings. Of course, it is not necessary for average users to take them into account, but fans of computer games will do well.

The speed of the RAM depends on this parameter. It is logical that the higher it is, the faster the system. Before choosing RAM, make sure at what frequency the motherboard and computer operate. No, differences in values ​​do not mean that the RAM will not start. The RAM will work, but its frequencies will be reduced. It turns out that you will simply overpay for them.

With motherboards the situation is quite simple. Budget solutions in 2016 support frequencies up to 2000 MHz. Middle class and solutions for assembling gaming computers - 3000 MHz. You can find out the supported frequency of the “material” on the manufacturer’s website or using special software.

With processors it’s a little more complicated and varied. Budget “stones” for DDR3 operate at frequencies up to 1333 MHz. Middle class - 1600 MHz. Gaming powerful processors can operate at frequencies up to 1866 MHz. Modern chips have received support for fourth generation RAM. They operate at frequencies up to 2133 MHz. You can find out what frequency your processor has on the manufacturer’s website or simply enter its name in a search engine.

High Frequency Memory

Attentive readers will have noticed that in the section “Types of RAM” it is indicated: DDR3 up to 2400 MHz, DDR4 up to 4266 MHz. Yes, there is RAM on sale and with such frequency. How can this be if the processor supports lower values?

It's all about extreme Memory Profile technology. It was developed by Intel and is used in many of its products. Its peculiarity is that it allows RAM to operate at a real frequency.

Please note that both the processor and motherboard must support XMP technology. Without this technology, there is no point in choosing RAM for a computer with high frequencies. Processors and motherboards with XMP are more expensive than conventional representatives and belong to the middle/high segment

How is this possible? A motherboard with technology can increase the speed of the memory bus, which is responsible for data transfer. This way, high-frequency RAM can operate at its maximum.

AMD also has a similar technology, called AMP for short. The essence of the work is approximately the same. AMP is used in expensive solutions, usually aimed at assembling gaming computers.

Does it make sense to spend money on high-speed RAM and a motherboard with XMP support? Yes, if you are building the most powerful PC for gaming or professional tasks, in which, in addition to the expensive motherboard and RAM, top-level hardware will be installed. For a middle-class computer, and especially a budget one, that does not have a powerful video card and processor, this is rather a waste of money.

Timings

Now let's go through them a little. What is this? Timings are usually called delays between various operations in RAM, such as ddr3 memory module. Let us immediately note the obvious pattern: the lower the delay, the better. This is true and few would argue. But in 2016, timings do not have a special impact on the speed of RAM. In this regard, frequency is still more significant.

The timings are indicated on the memory modules. The higher the frequency, the higher the delay.

Timing is indicated by the letters CL and a series of numbers. When choosing RAM, you should pay attention to the first digit. For DDR3 with a low frequency, the normal value is 9. For high frequencies - up to 11. For DDR4, this figure can reach up to 16.

It is not recommended to buy RAM with high timing. It may have problems with performance and performance. As a rule, RAM with low timings costs more, but not much.

Supply voltage

An important point that many users forget about or simply don’t know. Those who buy additional RAM to expand the capacity especially suffer. They bring it home, but she refuses to work. Often, after such attempts, it fails altogether. In the end it turns out that two modules with different voltages were installed. Yes, yes, dear reader, ddr3 memory module The voltage also differs.

The motherboard into which the RAM is installed cannot provide different voltages to different modules. If it is set in accordance with the lower voltage bar, unstable operation of the system is observed. If it is set according to the RAM bar of a higher voltage, then the module with the lower one may fail.

Choose RAM for your computer with the same voltage to avoid problems.

The standard voltage for different types is as follows:

• 5V-DDR
• 8V-DDR2
• 5V-DDR3
• 35 V - DDR3L (this is not a separate type, but a subtype that operates at a lower voltage)
• 12V-DDR4

Please note that only standard voltages are shown. Many manufacturers of RAM sticks for laptops and computers provide excellent product.

A little about the design of the modules

The differences in computer RAM can be seen in the modules themselves. Appearance has no practical significance for most users, so you shouldn’t bother in this regard. In general, RAM sticks can be divided into single-sided and double-sided.

It is assumed that the memory chips are soldered on one or both sides. If you are assembling a new computer, choose any RAM modules, such as ddr3 memory module. But in the case of adding memory to the existing one, preference should be given to similar modules. This will protect the computer's RAM from unstable operation and possible errors.

Modules with heatsink

In 2016, RAM with radiators for cooling gained popularity, for example: ddr3 memory module. They are installed on high-frequency strips, which become very hot during operation. They cost more than regular representatives. They may be interesting only when assembling a gaming computer. In this case, special attention should be paid to ventilation of the system unit itself. As practice shows, the average user does not need them - a waste of money.

Memory operating modes

I think it will be interesting for many readers to hear about the modes in which the computer’s RAM operates. This point is very important, especially for powerful PCs. There are four modes in total:

• Single channel
• Dual channel
• Three channel
• Four channel

Single-channel mode has long been outdated and is found only in the first and second generations of RAM. It works by writing data sequentially to each module. Multichannel modes are more effective in this regard. They write in parallel to all RAM modules. As you might guess, the performance of the system increases significantly.

Again, support for operating modes directly depends on the motherboard. Modern models have a dual-channel mode. Three-channel and four-channel ones are quite rare, only in very expensive motherboards.

There is another nuance. Dual-channel modes only work when using two or four RAM sticks. Three-channel - three or six, four-channel - four or eight.

It is recommended to use identical RAM modules. Otherwise, performance in multi-channel mode is not guaranteed. If you want to overclock your old PC by adding a bracket for dual-channel mode, then find an identical module. It’s better to sell the old one and buy two new strips.

RAM for laptops

I’ll say right away that it differs only in one thing - size. RAM for a laptop is slightly smaller and is labeled SO-DIMM DDR. There are the same types as for a desktop computer. It does not differ in frequency, timings, or voltage.

It is worth considering that laptops most often have 1 or 2 slots in which you can install ddr3 memory module. Moreover, with serious restrictions on volume. Before choosing RAM for a laptop, you should check the model specification

Manufacturers

We haven't forgotten about RAM manufacturers either. There are a great variety of them on the market. Many users find this variety confusing, so we have selected some of the most popular and high-quality brands.

• Crucial. In 2016, RAM from this company is chosen by the majority
  users. Excellent price/quality ratio. Offers models for
  budget and for the gaming segment.
• Corsair. They produce excellent RAM modules, but the cost is significant
  higher than its closest competitors.
• Goodram. Inexpensive RAM alternative from Corsair. Works quickly, without
  delays, while being inexpensive.
• AMD, Transcend, Patriot. These manufacturers can be put on the same line. Release
  good RAM modules at an affordable price. However, only
  budget models.
• Hynix, Samsung. Companies occupying leading positions among manufacturers
  RAM modules. In 2016, the markets lost a little weight, the reason for which was
  steel fakes. You should choose RAM from Hynix and Samsung carefully so that
  Don't run into a Chinese copy.
• Skill, Geil, Team. I am sure that many readers are not familiar with these companies. They'll like it
  for fans of overclocking RAM. They are inexpensive and the quality is high.
• Kingston. Produces cheap models. They don’t shine with special quality, so they often
  RAM sticks fail.

The main rule: try not to purchase RAM from unknown manufacturers. First, study reviews of its products on the relevant forums.

Rating of RAM modules for a computer

It was decided to finish today’s article about the correct choice of RAM with a small rating of 2016. It will clearly show who dominates the market today and will help the user to facilitate this process. The rating of the best RAM modules included solutions that most closely fit the price/quality definition.

• Samsung DDR31600 DIMM 4Gb (1400 rubles (price for 1 module))
• Kingston HX318C10F74GD DDR3 1866 (1600 rubles) 9 Kingston HX316C10F74GD DDR3 1600 (1500 rubles)

• Samsung DDR31600 DIMM 8Gb (3000 rubles)
• Kingston HX318C10F*K2/8Gb DDR3 1866 (3300 rubles)
• Kingston HX421C14FB/8Gb DDR4 2133 (3500 rubles)

• Kingston HX318C10F*K2/16 2x8Gb DDR3 1866 (6000 rubles)
• Corsair CMK16GX4M2B3200C16 2x8Gb DDR4 3200 (8000 rubles)
• Crucial BLT2CP8G3D1608DT1TX0CEU 2x8Gb DDR3 1600 (7000 rubles)

• Kingston KVR13S9S8/4Gb DDR3 1333 (1600 rubles)
• Crucial CT102464BF160B 8Gb DDR3L 1600 (1800 rubles)
• Samsung DDR4 2133 SO-DIMM 8Gb (3000 rubles)

Bottom line

This, dear friends, is the end. I hope that the tips presented in this article will help you decide on the choice of RAM for your computer or laptop. Of course, the processor or video card is much more important, but you shouldn’t forget about these small components. Correctly selected RAM will make your device faster and more efficient in operation, and will also save your wallet from unnecessary expenses. Good luck with your choice!

RAM modules are made on the basis of rectangular printed circuit boards with single-sided or double-sided arrangement of chips. They differ in form factor and have different designs: SIMM (Single In-line Memory Module - memory module with single-row contacts); DIMM (Dual In-line Memory Module - memory module with double-row contacts); SO DIMM (Small Outline DIMM - small DIMM size). The contacts of the memory module connectors are coated with gold or an alloy of nickel and palladium.

ModulesSIMM is a board with flat contacts along one side; They are installed into the motherboard connector at an angle and then rotated to the working (vertical) position using latches. There are two types of SIMMs: 30-pin, 9-bit (8 data bits and 1 parity bit); 72-pin, 32-bit (no parity) or 36-bit (parity). Therefore, the 32-bit bus required the use of four banks of 30-pin SIMMs or one 72-pin module; for a 64-bit bus - two banks of 72-pin modules.

ModulesDIMM There are two types: 168-pin (for installing SDRAM chips) and 184-pin DIMMs (for DDR SDRAM chips). They are identical in installation dimensions, inserted vertically into the motherboard connector and secured with latches. During the transition period, motherboards were equipped with connectors for both types of DIMM modules, but currently SIMM and 168-pin DIMM modules are outdated and not used in PCs.

ModulesSO DIMM with 72- and 144-pin connectors are used in portable PCs. They are installed into the motherboard in the same way as SIMM modules.

Currently, the most popular DIMM modules are DDR SDRAM, DDR2 SDRAM and DDR3 SDRAM chips.

DIMMs based on DDR SDRAM chips are available with 184 pins (Fig. 1).

Rice. 1. 184-pin DIMM board:

1 - DDR SDRAM chips; 2 - buffer memory and error control chip; 3 - cutouts for mounting the board; 4 - key; 5 - connector

The key on the memory module is a cutout in the board, which, in combination with a corresponding protrusion in the motherboard connector, prevents the module from being installed the wrong way around. In addition, the key for incompatible RAM modules may have different placement (move between contacts in one direction or the other), indicating the supply voltage rating (2.5 or 1.8 V) and protecting against electrical damage.

Memory chips such as DDR2, DDR3, which replace DDR, are produced in the form of 240-pin DIMM modules.

Modern memory modules for PCs are supplied in 512 MB, 1.2 and 4 GB versions.

At the time of this writing, the market is dominated by third-generation DDR memory modules, or DDR3. DDR3 memory has higher clock speeds (up to 2400 megahertz), lower power consumption by approximately 30-40% (compared to DDR2) and correspondingly lower heat dissipation.

However, you can still find DDR2 memory and outdated (and therefore terribly expensive in places) DDR1 memory. All these three types are completely incompatible with each other, both electrically (DDR3 has lower voltage) and physical (see image).

The necessary and sufficient amount of RAM depends on the operating system and application programs that determine the intended use of the PC. If you plan to use the computer for office or “multimedia” purposes (Internet, working with office applications, listening to music, etc.), 1024 MB of memory (1 GB) will be enough for you. For demanding computer games, video processing, sound recording and mixing of musical compositions at home - at least 2 GB (2048 MB) of RAM. Preferably - 3 gigabytes. It should also be noted that 32-bit versions (x86) of Windows do not support more than 3 gigabytes of RAM. We also note that the Windows Vista and Windows 7 operating systems require at least 1 GB of RAM to work comfortably with them, and up to 1.5 gigabytes when all graphic effects are enabled.

Characteristics and markings of RAM

Consider the markings

4096Mb (2x2048Mb) DIMM DDR2 PC2-8500 Corsair XMS2 C5 BOX

1024Mb SO-DIMM DDR2 PC6400 OCZ OCZ2M8001G (5-5-5-15) Retail

Volume

The first designation in the line is the size of the memory modules. In particular, in the first case it is 4 GB, and in the second case it is 1 GB. True, 4 GB in this case is implemented not by one memory stick, but by two. This is the so-called Kit of 2 - a set of two planks. Typically, such kits are purchased to install strips in dual-channel mode in parallel slots. The fact that they have the same parameters will improve their compatibility, which has a beneficial effect on stability.

Type of shell

DIMM/SO-DIMM is a type of memory stick housing. All modern memory modules are available in one of the two specified designs.

Memory type

Memory type is the architecture by which the memory chips themselves are organized. It affects all technical characteristics of memory - performance, frequency, supply voltage, etc.

Data transfer frequencies for memory types:

DDR: 200-400 MHz

DDR2: 533-1200 MHz

DDR3: 800-2400 MHz

The number indicated after the memory type is the frequency: DDR400, DDR2-800.

Memory modules of all types differ in supply voltage and connectors and cannot be inserted into each other.

The data transfer frequency characterizes the potential of the memory bus to transfer data per unit time: the higher the frequency, the more data can be transferred.

However, there are other factors, such as the number of memory channels and memory bus width. They also affect the performance of memory subsystems.

RAM is one of the most important components of the system, on which the performance of the computer directly depends. In the catalog you can select and buy RAM of a suitable type with a capacity from 1 to 32 GB, single sticks, as well as KIT memory modules of 2 and 4 sticks complete with the same characteristics, selected for working in pairs (dual-channel mode). Using dual-channel mode leads to a significant increase in throughput, and, consequently, an increase in application speed. For compact systems, low-profile memory modules are available that differ from standard ones in height, but not in performance. While for outdated platforms, regular and server RAM modules of the Registered DDR, DDR2, Registered DDR2 and DDR2 FB-DIMM standards are presented. Affordable prices for RAM of these standards make the choice obvious when looking to replace faulty memory or expand the existing total memory capacity in the system.

Today, the most common type of memory for desktop PCs based on Intel and AMD is DDR3 RAM. However, Low Voltage (LV DDR3) is not supported by all motherboards and processors.

Suitable for the most modern processors. It is distinguished by a maximum data transfer rate doubled to 3.2 Gbps, a maximum frequency increased to 4266 MHz and unsurpassed stability. The increased number of pins makes DDR4 modules incompatible with older slots.

The higher the clock frequency, the more operations are performed per unit of time, which allows computer games and other applications to run more stable and faster. Prices for RAM with high clock speeds are, of course, higher. But before you buy memory, pay attention to what maximum frequency is indicated in the processor description. Using memory with frequencies higher than the declared values ​​will not give a noticeable increase in performance.

If you are building a gaming computer, a powerful workstation, or plan to overclock all system components, then you should buy gaming memory, which differs from the standard in higher frequency, higher voltage and, if possible, lower latency. Prices for gaming memory are not the lowest, but in this case the system performance will be higher than when using standard memory sticks. The decoration of any gaming PC will be backlit. White or multi-color backlighting does not affect performance, but it looks very stylish and relevant for a PC of this class.

Fast memory modules are distinguished by the presence of profiles that expand the capabilities of SPD. The most popular at the moment is the so-called. XMP support allows you to overclock DDR3 and DDR4 memory to achieve even higher performance and improved gaming features without complex memory voltage and clock changes.

Physically, RAM is manufactured in the form of LSIs (large-scale integrated circuits) of various types (SIMM, DIMM), having different information capacities (1, 4, 8, 16, 32 MB, etc.).

SIMMs can have different numbers of pins: 30 (legacy) or 72.

DIMMs have 168 pins. It is necessary to keep in mind that different motherboards have different sets of connectors for RAM modules.

The main characteristic of RAM modules is the information access time (reading/writing data). In modern memory modules, access time is usually less than 70 ns (70 * 10 9 s).

Memory module design

64-bit DIMMs (Dual In-line Memory Module) appeared in 1997. This generation of memory modules has 168 contacts located on both sides of the textolite board (84 contacts on each side).

To identify the type of module by the amount of memory and the type of chips used, a flash memory chip is installed on it with service information recorded in it (SPD - Serial Presense Detect), which is accessed via the 12C interface. To prevent the installation of the wrong type of DlMM module, several slots (keys) are made in the textolite board. To mechanically identify different DIMM modules, a shift in the position of two keys in the module’s textolite board, located among the contact pads, is used. The main purpose of these keys is to prevent the installation of a DIMM module with an inappropriate supply voltage for memory chips into the socket. In addition, the left key determines the presence or absence of a data buffer.

For DDR SDRAM modules, the number of pins has been increased to 184.

The latest modifications of Pentium 4 and Celeron processors, as well as Athlon and Duron, are designed to work with such modules.

The corresponding keys are used to identify the supply voltage of DDR SDRAM modules.

On Registered DIMM type modules (with data buffering), one or two temporary data storage chips are always installed between the contacts and DRAM chips.

In low profile modules, the buffering chips are installed in the middle of the module.

Types of RAM.

Also, memory is divided not only by size but also by frequency.

There are three types of RAM:

DDR
DDR2,
DDR3.

Their frequencies are:

DDR - from 200 to 400 MHz,

DDR2 - from 533 to 1200 MHz,

DDR3 - from 800 to 2400 MHz.

How to choose RAM (RAM, DDR), which memory module is better

When choosing RAM (RAM, DDR) for upgrading a computer, or assembling a new one, most users pay little attention to the quality and type of RAM modules. The “only parameter” of RAM is often its capacity, but this is far from the only parameter that you need to pay attention to when choosing. And so, let's consider basic RAM parameters, and what depends on them.

Form factor

For a desktop computer, the form factor (standards and physical dimensions) will be DIMM, and for a laptop SODIMM.

Well, now let's get down to the characteristics...

Amount of RAM and number of memory modules

As stated earlier, this is the first criterion for selection. When choosing the volume of RAM modules and their quantity, you must first of all clearly understand for what purposes the computer will be used.

If this is a computer for office tasks or surfing the Internet, then it does not need a large amount of RAM, and today, for such a computer, it will be enough 2GB one module.

If your computer is a gaming station, or a workstation with applications that consume a large amount of RAM, then it would be advisable to purchase 4 - 8 GB

Number of RAM modules significantly affects PC performance. For example, the same computer with the same amount of RAM, but with a larger number of memory modules (for example, the first has 4GB with one stick, and the second has 2 sticks of 2GB each) will load the game faster than the first. "Why is that?" - you ask, but because modern motherboards, just like memory controllers in processors, have support two or three channel memory modes. By installing 2 or 3 RAM sticks in the corresponding slots of the motherboard (to activate this mode, the sticks must be inserted into slots of the same color), you will activate two or three channel mode, which in theory can increase the total memory bandwidth by 2 or 3 times, respectively ( in practice it is much less, but the difference is significant). For example, if one memory module has a bus width of 64 bits, this means that the processor can read 64 bits from memory in one clock cycle, and the number of clock cycles corresponds to the operating frequency of the RAM. And when you set two or three channel mode, you thereby increase the bus width by 2 (128 bits) or 3 (192 bits) times.

But there are also pitfalls here; you shouldn’t immediately rush out to buy several RAM modules if this performance gain doesn’t play a big role for you. By installing two or three channel mode, you may reduce the stability of the computer, since the likelihood of errors in such modes is much higher than in single-channel mode. This depends on many factors: operating frequency, manufacturer, timings, whether the memory modules that need to work together are the same, etc. Moreover, from my experience in computer repair, there are many cases when, after 3 - 4 years of uninterrupted operation in dual-channel mode, the motherboard (chipset) gradually (and sometimes abruptly) stops working correctly in this mode, or does not start at all (the latter option is more frequent) reporting the absence of memory modules. But as soon as all the modules except one were pulled out, the system magically began to work. This problem could be solved by installing two modules on one channel (of different colors), and “throwing out” the remaining modules (if there were any). Or you could warm up the chipset/processor (depending on where the memory controller is) - this could help for a short period of time. The reason why the memory controller fails, as well as the quality of the modules themselves deteriorates, is chip degradation.

Memory should be purchased based on the recommendations of the manufacturer of your computer’s motherboard. To do this, just go to the manufacturer’s website, find your board there, and find the section with supported modules and memory manufacturers. A motherboard can, of course, work wonderfully with other memory modules, but still, by purchasing memory from the list of supported ones, you guarantee stable operation.

Memory type and memory frequency

The type of RAM primarily indicates technical process, according to which the chips are made, and indicates that the newer module operates at a higher frequency, which has a positive effect on performance.

At the moment, there are 2 types of memory - DDR2 and DDR3, to buy a new computer, I think the choice is obvious - take only the new one, and this is DDR3 (at the time of writing). To upgrade your computer, you don’t have much of a choice; you’ll have to take the memory that your motherboard supports. Only in some cases, when upgrading a computer, you can change the memory to a newer one. But this is only possible if you have a “combo” motherboard that supports both older and newer types of memory, but modules of different types will not work together, and if you have older memory installed, you will have to “throw it out” and put a newer one in other slots.

The frequency of RAM can be different; even sticks of the same type can have different frequencies. Ideally, it is advisable to choose memory with a frequency identical to the processor FSB bus. And do not confuse the effective frequency of RAM operation with the effective one. For example, DDR 1333 memory is DDR2 class memory and operates at a REAL frequency of 667 MHz. The FSB bus of the processor is also described as effective, and it must be divided by 2 to determine the real one.

Memory delays (timings)

Memory timings or memory latency are time delays in a signal. Memory latencies in some way affect the performance (bandwidth and access speed) of the RAM module as a whole. The lower the memory latency, the faster it can run. Memory timings are usually written in the form 2-2-2-6, each part of the recording corresponds to the signal delay of each of the main parameters. We won’t go into the details of how each process works right now, you just need to know that the lower the memory timings, the more productive it is (up to 10%).

For modern memory modules, its timings are not the main criterion, since processors working with DDR3 memory have a relatively large second- and third-level memory cache, which can significantly reduce the number of memory accesses and, in turn, reduces the value of memory latencies. But despite this, timings still matter and cannot be ignored when choosing a memory module.

RAM module manufacturer

The stability, quality, and to some extent performance of RAM directly depend on the manufacturer. Not all RAM manufacturers make high-quality memory modules, and as a rule, a high-quality memory module costs a little more than others. I will list several well-known and good memory manufacturers at the moment: Transcend, Samsung, Kingston, OCZ. These are not the only manufacturers that make good memory, but when buying memory from these manufacturers you do not risk buying a pig in a poke.

Overclocking

Most well-known manufacturers have overclocked RAM models. This undoubtedly gives an increase in performance, but you shouldn’t overpay significantly for it, since you can overclock the RAM yourself. And besides, this will lead to her death faster due to chip degradation. But if you still decide to choose an overclocked module, then please note that these memory modules must have cooling.

Cooling

If you plan to overclock your computer, including RAM, then it is advisable to choose a memory module that has cooling in the form of aluminum plates.

Don't forget to leave