DDR4 SDRAM is the fourth and latest generation of synchronous dynamic random-access memory. It follows in the footsteps of previous generations by delivering fast data transfer speeds thanks to its controlled electrical and clock signals. Of course, there are several new improvements made to DDR4 SDRAM that set it above the rest.
History of DDR4 SDRAM
Development for DDR4 SDRAM began in 2005 when the semiconductor engineering organization and standardization body JEDEC (formerly known as the Joint Electron Device Engineering Council) launched an initiative to create the successor to DDR3 SDRAM.
Engineers had originally planned to release it to the market in 2010, hoping to capture at least 5% of the market share. JEDEC experienced numerous setbacks, however, including the transition from 1.2 volts to 1 volt. It wasn't until September 2012 when the final specification of DDR4 was released. Earlier this year, Hynix unveiled the world's first high-density 128GB DDR4 module, which operates at a jaw-dropping 2133 Mbit/s. Hynix said it plans to release this module next year.
Benefits
So, what makes DDR4 better than previous generations? JEDEC made several improvements to the fourth generation, including higher module density, faster data transfer speeds, and lower voltage requirements. Technical jargon aside, DDR4 SDRAM is the fastest and most efficient generation.
To put the power of DDR4 SDRAM into perspective, check out the comparison of previous generation speeds listed below:
-
DDR
(first generation): 100-200 MHz bus clock with a 200-400 MT/s transfer rate
- DDR2 (second generation): 200-533 MHz bus clock with a 400-1066 MT/s transfer rate
- DDR3 (third generation): 400-1066 MHz bus clock with an 800-2133 MT/s transfer rate
- DDR4
(fourth generation): 1066-2133 MHz bus clock with a 2133-4266 MT/s transfer rate
Compatibility
It's important to note that DDR4 SDRAM is not compatible with previous generations of RAM. This is due to the fact that previous generations use different voltages and have different pin setups. The first and second-generation laptop modules, for instance, have 200-pin SO-DIMMs, whereas the fourth generation has 260-pin SO-DIMMs.
DDR4 PC memory is manufactured in modules with 288-pin DIMMs, which are similar to DDR3's design. However, the pins are arranged in a tighter configuration and are slightly taller to improve signal routing. These physical differences are just a few reasons why DDR4 isn't compatible with previous generations.
DDR4 SDRAM is still in the early stages of being rolled out. As we progress into next year, however, we will likely see more of this blazing-fast memory appearing in computer systems.
If you would like a price on the latest DDR4 RAM, please give our sales team a call on 0845 259 0202.
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