The different types of computer memory

Tag : computer memory module

While a lot of acronyms will be used here it's not essential toknow what those terms stand for, it's far more important to knowthat there is a difference between memory types so you can purchasethe proper memory to upgrade your system.
Memory for desktop computers comes in packages called SIMMs, DIMMsor RIMMs. This is often referred to the form factor for the memory.These form factors are not interchangeable and you will have topurchase the correct form factor for your system to upgrade yourmemory.
SIMMs and DIMMs are made up of SDRAM. A SIMM is a memory module fora 32-bit bus with memory chips on a small circuit board with a 72pin connector on the edge. A DIMM is basically a double SIMM. It isa memory module for a 64-bit bus and is on a small circuit boardwith a 168 pin connector. SIMMs must be installed in pairs. DIMMs,being double SIMMs can be installed individually. Most newercomputers use DIMMs, while SIMMs may be found in an older system.
A RIMM is a newer memory module that uses RDRAM. RDRAM is fasterthan SDRAM so if your system supports RDRAM it will likely performbetter than a system that supports SDRAM. RIMMS, like DIMMS, are64-bit memory modules but they have a 184 pin connector.
Notebook computers use SO-DIMMs and SO-RIMMs. These are memorymodules on smaller circuit boards to fit in the smaller case of theportable computer. The technology and performance is basically thesame as that of the equivalent DIMM or RIMM.
If your system uses a DIMM or SO-DIMM form factor, you will alsoneed to know the type of SDRAM used on the memory module. Somesystems just use plain SDRAM. Some systems, however, use a fasterversion of SDRAM called 1 2 next page >>