As the latest memory update that offers the benefits such as faster processing and higher capability, DDR4 memory is the common form of RAM in most of the systems today. It succeeds the earlier versions of DDR2 and DDR3. The first DDR4 form was produced by Samsung in 2011. Since 2014 till date, DDR4 is the memory used in desktop computers and laptops. When the DDR4 memory was introduced, it managed to change the processing capability of RAM. It has the ability to handle multiple workloads without any noticeable delays. To answer what is DDR4 memory, we can look into the components and supporting technology.
DDR4 memory is the abbreviation for ‘double data rate fourth generation’ memory. It is also called DDR4 SDRAM that stands for double data rate fourth generation synchronous random access memory. It is the latest variant of memory with exceptional results in the world of computing. The key features include higher processing speed and efficiency as compared to the older versions of memory. It is able to deliver higher processing speed due to the impressive rate of data transfer. DDR4 memory is also energy-efficient and consumes less power. You can expect efficient performance as one of the essential benefits. It also has higher DIMM capacities and improved data integrity when you compare the performance with DDR3 memory.
A look into DDR4 memory
When you look at the power capability of DDR4 memory, you would realize that it provides more than 2Gbps per pin. It can give 50% more performance and bandwidth. It is able to achieve this at lower voltage. This translates to improved performance with lower power consumption. You can easily save power by up to 40%, while at the same time increase productivity. The significance of DDR4 memory is observed in CPU-intensive activities. While performing multiple tasks, the DDR4 memory can support the workload without any lags.
DDR4 chips can transfer data with speeds of up to 4266 MT/s (million transfers per second). The starting range is from 2133 MT/s. DDR3 technology can only support from 80 to 2133 MT/s. This higher transfer rate is extremely useful for intensive programs. DDR4 memory is an asset for server memory that handles multiple streams of data. When used in processors and devices, the DDR4 chips can enhance the overall capability. DDR4 also has a unique command signal that can indicate the active command. This feature is better than the previous process where three separate commands were required.
The DDR4 memory consumes less power. While DDR3 uses 1.65 volts, the DDR4 uses around 1.2 volts. Due to lower power consumption, you can expect better battery life. Besides faster processing speed, you can expect benefits such as improved data security and reliability. It employs cyclic redundancy checks or CRC that can check for any errors. It also has enhanced signal integrity and on-chip parity detection that can check the integrity of ‘command and address’ transfers that are done over a link.
Benefits of DDR4 memory
1. Processing speed
Speed is one of the main benefits of the DDR4 memory. It can perform exceptionally well over the previous versions of DDR2 and DDR3. As DDR4 stands for double data rate, it can deliver double benefits in terms of processing speed and efficiency. It is useful for handling the demand of the latest computing devices. Due to the advancement in memory technology, it can allow computing devices to improve in other areas too. The user experience is improved as it can tackle large workloads with absolute ease. You would notice that the access time is reduced to a great extent.
The advantage of DDR4 memory reflects over the loading times. It can also handle multiple computing tasks that demand a higher processing capability.
2. Lower energy consumption
The DDR4 memory can function at lower voltage as compared to the DDR3. It can use the available energy effectively without any significant losses. The maximum voltage of DDR3 is 1.65 volts, while the DDR4 is 1.2 volts. Due to this energy efficiency, it consumes less power. It can ensure excellent battery life across all the devices. The DDR4 memory can improve the computing capabilities of laptops, desktops, tablets, smartphones, and other devices.
These two primary benefits have driven the replacement of DDR3 with DDR4. Since 2014, DDR4 memory has powered most of the devices. It has brought several advanced features to the forefront. For example, modern advances like voice-recognition, touch capabilities, high-resolution images and videos are possible due to the advanced computing power of the DDR4 memory. In order to upgrade the performance of your system, you can consider adding more memory. By increasing the capacity and speed of your memory, you can expect faster response and improved productivity. If you cannot add memory to your existing RAM, you can sell the used memory and upgrade to a higher one.
Differences between DDR2, DDR3, and DDR4 memory
DDR2 and DDR3 are older versions of memory. DDR4 delivers improved performance with a number of innovative perks.
1. Speed
The main difference that sets them all apart is processing speed. DDR2 has transfer speeds that fall between 400 to 1066 MT/s (million transfers/second). The speed of DDR3 ranges from 800 to 2133 MT/s. DDR4 memory revolutionizes this technology with exceptional speeds of 2133 to 4266 MT/s.
2. Voltage
The next noticeable difference between DDR2, DDR3, and DDR4 is voltage. DDR2 operated on 1.8 volts. DDR3 operates at around 1.5 volts, while DDR4 operates at around 1.05 volts. The lower voltage consumption translates to energy efficiency.
3. Difference in the key notch
There is a difference in the location of the key notch on the DDR3 and DDR4 module. The key notch is located on the insertion edge but at a slightly different spot. This difference can ensure that the DDR4 module is not inserted into an incompatible motherboard.
4. Curved edge in the design
DDR4 memory has a curved edge as compared to DDR3. The curved edge can help with insertion into the motherboard and also avoid stress as seen in the conventional design of DDR3.
5. Increased thickness of DDR4
DDR4 memory has a thicker design as compared to DDR3. The increased thickness accommodates more signal layers.
While understanding what DDR4 memory is, we realize that it has many benefits and innovative features. You can expect exceptional performance capability with the DDR4 memory. When you decide to upgrade your computer or server memory, you can trade the used memory for excellent cash returns.