3.2 – RAM Channeling Flashcards
Memory Channeling
Allows a system to access more RAM simultaneously to improve performance
Same channel: A1 & B1 [same color RAM]
Single Channel
Configuration: No requirements
Description: System can access a single chip at a time
Dual Channel
Configuration: Matching Pairs
Description: System can access two chips at once
Triple Channel
Configuration: Matching Threes
Description: System can access three chips at once
Quad Channel
Configuration: Matching Fours
Description: System can access four chips at once
Single-Sided vs Double-Sided DIMMS
When maxing out RAM on a motherboard verify if it requires single / double-sided memory
Single-sided = can be more expensive at higher capacity with NO performance benefits
RAM Variations
Latency
measures how responsive RAM is when data is being read from it
Reported as a CAS level or in milliseconds [lower is better for each]
RAM Variations
ECC
Error Checking & Correcting RAM
-Can detect & fix errors in data on RAM
-Makes system more stable NOT faster
-Commonly found in critical servers
RAM Variations
Registered & Buffered Memory
-Includes extra chips to allow for more consistent communications between the memory controller & RAM
-Only found in high memory capacity servers
-Unbuffered memory is common for most desktops & portable systems
RAM Considerations
o Maximum capacity is predetermined
o RAM type most important [only one supported]
o DIMMs are found in desktop & server systems
o SODIMMs in laptops & SFF computers
o RAM speeds should match motherboard supported
o Speed = best experience [not required for compatibility]
o Number of slots will determine how many pieces of RAM installed
