From the development of different PCs to modern smartphones, memory standards have always been a factor in determining the performance of the system as a whole. Over time, it has undergone constant updates from SDR, or single data rate RAM found in older computers from the bygone era, to the recent DDR or double data rate.

From the earliest days, one of the major factors affecting the performance of a device was the inability of the memory speed to match the processor speed. The introduction of double data rate was a revolutionary move, as it showed memory bus performance in line with processor speeds. This resulted in optimal system performance.

The shift to SRAM and DDR went through constant updates to meet the demand for ultra-modern innovations at a rapid pace. Starting with 200 MHz DDR SRAM in early 2001, up to 400 MHz DDR2 in 2002, it was just the beginning of an impressive journey. In late 2007, DDR2 was able to achieve memory speeds of up to 1,066 MHz. 2009 saw even better levels with the introduction of DDR3.

Today, the latest progeny in the DDR4 series has captured the market with even better performance and robust control features. In addition to performance and speed, it features improved power economy for business applications, tablets, microservers, and ultrathin clients.

This new solution has many proven advantages over its predecessors. This is one of the main reasons why most applications are rolling out the older version to upgrade with DDR4. It comes with a data rate of 2GB to 16GB, allowing for large capacity subsystems. Compared to a maximum of 16 GB per DDR3 DIMM, the DDR4 standard allows for DIMM capacity, up to 64 GB.

There are many types of DDR4 sockets and modules available on the market. Vertical Ultra Low Profile (ULP) DIMM sockets provide an ideal solution for ultrathin applications. This helps with convenient memory expansion in desktops, servers, workstations, embedded communications applications, and industrial equipment. The overall reduced profile helps reduce dash space. These are also equipped with low resistance contacts that minimize power consumption within the hardware. In addition to offering many of these facilities, the plugs are compatible with the standard DIMM to help optimize airflow.

Although DDR4 opens up a more substantial avenue that lays the foundation for massive technological innovations, it still won’t stop there. Technology is also making a leap towards new advancements. The next industry standard DDR5 for even better speed and performance is currently designed for use in graphics cards, game consoles, and high-performance computing.