How to Use Memory Twice as Fast
Few technological leaps had the same impact on computing as the introduction of DDR memory. By transferring two bits of data on each tick of the clock, it effectively doubled the total bandwidth over SDRAM.
What is DDR?
DDR is actually Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory, which is quite a mouthful. In order to use it you need both a computer with a compatible chipset and also a motherboard with the right kind of physical slots to hold the modules. In comparison to its predecessor, not only did it increase the transfer rate, but it also reduced the signaling voltage from 3.3 Volts to 2.5 Volts. While it is compatible with both desktop and laptop computers, they each require different packages:
- Desktops: These use a 184-pin DIMM, that is 133.35 mm long and can support ECC.
- Laptops: These use 200-pin SODIMMs that are 67.6 mm long and are only available in non-ECC unbuffered modules.
How Do You Choose RAM?
The main purpose of computer memory is to store data in fast RAM rather than forcing the processor to dig into the hard drive every time it needs more data. Faster RAM helps keep the processor fed so you can take full advantage of all the clock cycles it's giving you. More Infineon RAM makes it easier to shift between different programs as once again, you don't have to go back to the hard drive for data. There are two main things to consider when buying RAM:
- Capacity: Generally limited by the operating system and the motherboard, the general idea is to install as much RAM as the system supports. For 64-bit systems that means starting at 4 GB and often going up to 8 GB.
- Speed: This can be described by either frequency in MHz or transfer rate. For example, Infineon DDR 400 has an effective clock speed of 400 MHz and a transfer rate of 3.2 GB per second.
Installing RAM
Always check whether your computer supports dual-channel memory or not. A single channel motherboard can take any memory modules in almost any combination, while a dual-channel board benefits from using matched pairs. Like DDR itself, the second channel doubles the effective bandwidth, so your processor gets the data it needs as fast as it needs it. When people talk about the speed of a computer they're usually less concerned about the actual processing power than they are about its overall responsiveness. They want a smooth computing experience where they never have to wait for the computer; instead, they would rather have it wait for them.
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