PC3200 DDR DIMM Memory
Computers are slowly becoming an inevitable part of our life. Personal computers are becoming a source of information and entertainment.
When upgrading the system, most of the computer users do some research before upgrading their system so they exactly know about a perfectly matching CPU, motherboard and video card combination that will meet all their needs. But most of them fail when it comes to RAM. Everyone is aware of the size of the RAM i.e. 1GB, 2GB or 4GB, but they don’t know what this DDR1, DDR2 or DDR3 is all about. So, is knowing the DDR variant useful or is it just another name for a RAM. Selecting the proper DDR variant is a very important factor that determines how your overall system will perform, thus every computer user should be well-advised to learn it.
DDR stands for Double Data Rate. Let’s look at the difference between DDR1, DDR2 and DDR3.
DDR1 is most popularly known as just plain DDR. Double Data Rate interfaces provide two data transfers per differential clock. The data becomes registered when the CK goes high [the + side], and /CK goes low [the - side]. DDR1 utilizes the JEDEC standard for Double Date Rate [DDR I] SDRAM. Like all DDR RAM it is available as registered or un-buffered. Registered DIMMs are generally known as FB-DIMMs and have their address and control lines buffered in order to reduce signal loading. FB-DIMMs are considerably more expensive than un-buffered DIMMs and are generally reserved for server use. There are very few enthusiast/prosumer/gamers utilizing FB-DIMMs in their CPU’s. Un-buffered DIMMs don’t feature address lines and control line buffering, so they cost quite a bit less. However, they may be system-loading limited and are thus generally restricted in the number that can be fitted onto one system.
DDR2 memory is the second generation in DDR memory. DDR2 begins with a speed level of 400MHz as the lowest available while the 400MHz speed is actually the highest speed for DDR1. It’s a bit strange but due to different latencies a 400MHz DDR1 will outperform a 400MHz DDR2, but the advantage returns to DDR2 as soon as the speed reaches the next step 532MHz, which DDR1 cannot reach.
DDR3 is the third generation in DDR memory. DDR3 begins with a lowest capacity level of 800Mbps and goes up to 1600Mbps with bus speed as high as 2000MHz. Higher performance with lower power consumption is the major benefit, since operating voltage is only 1.5V for DDR3 compared to 1.8V for DDR2. Lower heat is generated, which means that systems will run cooler.
The transfer rates of these RAM also differ a lot. Though it is very hard to ascertain which Kingston DDR RAM would suit which motherboard, you should research your CPU manufacturer’s RAM recommendations and fit that exact type of DDR in it.
