Selection of RAM for the processor. What is RAM. Dual channel memory mode

Everyone wants their computer or laptop to fly without freezing or slowing down. A budget option for achieving this goal is system optimization. This is not always effective. A practical way to achieve speed is to buy sticks of random access memory (RAM).

There are many types of RAM. This makes it difficult to choose. In this article I will tell you how to choose and buy the right RAM sticks for your computer or laptop.

The criteria for choosing RAM for a laptop differ from the criteria for a desktop computer only in physical size. In a laptop, the RAM modules are smaller and shorter. So in general the selection method is the same.

By the way, modern system units can also have operational modules, the same as usually found in laptops. This is done to save space.

If you are deciding which RAM sticks to buy, then the most reasonable and correct way would be to go to the website of the developer of your motherboard. It is there that there will be a detailed and truthful list of all recommended RAM modules that will suit you. But everything there will most likely not be in Russian, and still, not all points will be clear. Therefore, let’s look at the parameters by which RAM models differ.

RAM interface

RAM differs in its interfaces - the number of contacts and the location of the groove and cutout. There are several types of RAM interfaces. The website of the motherboard developer, the markings on the old RAM (if any, if you decide to upgrade your computer), or special software will tell you which RAM sticks you should buy.

DDR, DDR2, DDR3 are types of RAM interfaces. There are several more less common ones. They are all physically different from each other, so if you buy the wrong RAM, you will not be able to insert it into your motherboard. There are also electrical differences, so don’t even try to fit them in.

Perhaps this is the most important parameter that you should know before buying RAM sticks.

RAM form factor

This is exactly what distinguishes the RAM of a desktop computer from a portable laptop. And after seeing your RAM once, you will know exactly what format factor it is.

There are two types - DIMM and SO-DIMM. SO-DIMM is shorter, respectively, for laptops. DIMM – for system units.

RAM frequency

The frequency must be supported by the motherboard and processor (again, the best way to find out is to look at the manufacturer’s website or on the label of the old RAM). The frequency is indicated after the interface. For example, DDR3-1333, where 1,333 is the frequency in megahertz.

The frequency of RAM determines the data transfer rate, that is, its performance. But this will not make the computer work much faster. Selecting RAM with the correct frequency is necessary. You should not chase a higher frequency if the motherboard and processor do not support it.

If you connect RAM with a lower frequency to a motherboard that supports a higher frequency, then the motherboard will work without fully using its resource. If you connect RAM with a higher frequency to a motherboard that supports a low frequency, then the RAM will not show its full resource. In addition, in both cases there is a high probability of various errors occurring in the operation of the RAM.

Therefore, it is extremely important to determine the frequency at which your motherboard and processor can operate and buy RAM sticks according to it.

Remember that if you have multiple RAM modules in your computer and they are at different frequencies, both modules will operate at the lowest frequency.

RAM capacity

These are volumes that increase computer performance. The bigger, the better. The times when RAM was measured in megabytes are long gone, and so they are now measured in gigabytes.

The amount of RAM is also indicated on the case in the marking, usually in front of the 4GB DDR3 interface - that means 4 gigabytes of brains.

RAM timing

Timing is another murky thing that you will encounter when choosing RAM. And I won’t dwell on it too much, so I’ll only say three things.

First, the lower the timing, the better, the faster it will work.

Second, all RAM in the computer must have the same timing.

Third, the timing on the RAM case is marked CL. For example, CL 9-9-9-24.

Story random access memory, or RAM, began back in 1834, when Charles Babbage developed the “analytical engine” - essentially a prototype of a computer. He called the part of this machine, which was responsible for storing intermediate data, a “warehouse.” Memorizing information there was still organized in a purely mechanical way, through shafts and gears.

In the first generations of computers, cathode ray tubes and magnetic drums were used as RAM; later magnetic cores appeared, and after them, in the third generation of computers, memory on microcircuits appeared.

Nowadays RAM is made using technology DRAM in form factors DIMM and SO-DIMM, is dynamic memory organized in the form of semiconductor integrated circuits. It is volatile, meaning data disappears when there is no power.

Choosing RAM is not a difficult task today; the main thing here is to understand the types of memory, its purpose and main characteristics.

Memory types

SO-DIMM

Memory of the SO-DIMM form factor is intended for use in laptops, compact ITX systems, monoblocks - in short, where the minimum physical size of memory modules is important. It differs from the DIMM form factor in that the length of the module is approximately halved and there are fewer pins on the board (204 and 360 pins for SO-DIMM DDR3 and DDR4 versus 240 and 288 on boards of the same types of DIMM memory).
In terms of other characteristics - frequency, timings, volume, SO-DIMM modules can be of any kind, and do not differ in any fundamental way from DIMMs.

DIMM

DIMM - RAM for full-size computers.
The type of memory you choose must first be compatible with the socket on the motherboard. Computer RAM is divided into 4 types – DDR, DDR2, DDR3 And DDR4.

DDR memory appeared in 2001 and had 184 contacts. The supply voltage ranged from 2.2 to 2.4 V. The operating frequency was 400 MHz. It is still available for sale, although the selection is small. Today, the format is outdated - it is suitable only if you do not want to update the system completely, and the old motherboard only has connectors for DDR.

The DDR2 standard came out in 2003 and received 240 pins, which increased the number of threads, significantly speeding up the processor data bus. The operating frequency of DDR2 could be up to 800 MHz (in some cases - up to 1066 MHz), and the supply voltage was from 1.8 to 2.1 V - slightly less than that of DDR. Consequently, power consumption and heat dissipation of memory have decreased.
Differences between DDR2 and DDR:

· 240 contacts versus 120
· New slot, not DDR compatible
· Less power consumption
Improved design, better cooling
Higher maximum operating frequency

Just like DDR, it is an outdated type of memory - now it is only suitable for old motherboards, in other cases there is no point in buying it, since the new DDR3 and DDR4 are faster.

In 2007, RAM was updated to the DDR3 type, which is still widely used. The same 240 pins remain, but the connection slot for DDR3 has changed - there is no compatibility with DDR2. The operating frequency of the modules is on average from 1333 to 1866 MHz. There are also modules with frequencies up to 2800 MHz.
DDR3 differs from DDR2:

· DDR2 and DDR3 slots are not compatible.
· The clock frequency of DDR3 is 2 times higher - 1600 MHz versus 800 MHz for DDR2.
· Features a reduced supply voltage - about 1.5V, and lower power consumption (in the version DDR3L this value is on average even lower, about 1.35 V).
· The delays (timings) of DDR3 are greater than those of DDR2, but the operating frequency is higher. In general, the operating speed of DDR3 is 20-30% higher.

DDR3 is a good choice today. Many motherboards on sale have DDR3 memory connectors, and due to the massive popularity of this type, it is unlikely to disappear soon. It is also slightly cheaper than DDR4.

DDR4 is a new type of RAM, developed only in 2012. It is an evolutionary development of previous types. Memory bandwidth has increased again, now reaching 25.6 GB/s. The operating frequency also increased - on average from 2133 MHz to 3600 MHz. If we compare the new type with DDR3, which lasted on the market for 8 years and became widespread, then the performance increase is insignificant, and not all motherboards and processors support the new type.
DDR4 differences:

· Incompatible with previous types
· Reduced supply voltage - from 1.2 to 1.05 V, power consumption has also decreased
· Memory operating frequency up to 3200 MHz (can reach 4166 MHz in some trims), with, of course, timings increasing proportionally
May be slightly faster than DDR3

If you already have DDR3 sticks, then there is no point in rushing to change them to DDR4. When this format spreads massively, and all motherboards already support DDR4, the transition to a new type will happen by itself with an update of the entire system. Thus, we can summarize that DDR4 is more of a marketing product than a real new type of RAM.

Which memory frequency should I choose?

Choosing a frequency should begin by checking the maximum supported frequencies by your processor and motherboard. It makes sense to take a frequency higher than that supported by the processor only when overclocking the processor.

Today you should not choose memory with a frequency lower than 1600 MHz. The 1333 MHz option is acceptable in the case of DDR3, unless these are ancient modules lying around the seller, which will obviously be slower than the new ones.

The best option for today is memory with a frequency range from 1600 to 2400 MHz. A higher frequency has almost no advantage, but it costs much more, and as a rule, these are overclocked modules with raised timings. For example, the difference between modules of 1600 and 2133 MHz in a number of work programs will be no more than 5-8%; in games the difference may be even smaller. Frequencies of 2133-2400 MHz are worth taking if you are engaged in video/audio encoding and rendering.

The difference between frequencies of 2400 and 3600 MHz will cost you quite a lot, without significantly increasing speed.

How much RAM should I take?

The amount you need depends on the type of work performed on the computer, the operating system installed, and the programs used. Also, do not lose sight of the maximum supported memory capacity of your motherboard.

Volume 2 GB- today, it may only be enough to browse the Internet. More than half will be consumed by the operating system; the rest will be enough for the leisurely work of undemanding programs.

Volume 4 GB– suitable for a mid-range computer, for a home PC media center. Enough to watch movies and even play undemanding games. Modern ones, alas, are difficult to cope with. (Best choice if you have a 32-bit Windows operating system that sees no more than 3 GB of RAM)

Volume 8 GB(or a 2x4GB kit) is the recommended volume today for a full-fledged PC. This is enough for almost any games, for working with any resource-demanding software. The best choice for a universal computer.

A capacity of 16 GB (or sets of 2x8GB, 4x4GB) will be justified if you work with graphics, heavy programming environments, or constantly render videos. It’s also perfect for online streaming – with 8 GB there may be stutters, especially with high-quality video broadcasts. Some games in high resolutions and with HD textures may perform better with 16 GB of RAM on board.

Volume 32 GB(set 2x16GB, or 4x8GB) – still a very controversial choice, useful for some very extreme work tasks. It would be better to spend money on other computer components; this will have a stronger effect on its performance.

Operating modes: is it better to have 1 memory stick or 2?

RAM can operate in single-channel, dual-, triple- and quad-channel modes. Definitely, if your motherboard has a sufficient number of slots, then it is better to take several identical smaller memory sticks instead of one. The speed of access to them will increase from 2 to 4 times.

In order for the memory to work in dual-channel mode, you need to install the sticks in slots of the same color on the motherboard. As a rule, the color is repeated through the connector. It is important that the memory frequency in the two sticks be the same.

- Single chanell Mode– single-channel operating mode. It turns on when one memory stick is installed, or different modules operating at different frequencies. As a result, the memory operates at the frequency of the slowest stick.
- Dual Mode– two-channel mode. Works only with memory modules of the same frequency, increases operating speed by 2 times. Manufacturers produce sets of memory modules specifically for this purpose, which can contain 2 or 4 identical sticks.
-Triple Mode– works on the same principle as two-channel. In practice it is not always faster.
- Quad Mode- four-channel mode, which works on the principle of two-channel, accordingly increasing the speed of operation by 4 times. It is used where exceptionally high speed is needed - for example, in servers.

- Flex Mode– a more flexible version of the two-channel operating mode, when the bars are of different volumes, but only the frequency is the same. In this case, in dual-channel mode, the same volumes of modules will be used, and the remaining volume will function in single-channel mode.

Does memory need a heatsink?

Now we are long gone from the days when, at a voltage of 2 V, an operating frequency of 1600 MHz was achieved, and as a result, a lot of heat was generated, which had to be removed somehow. Then the radiator could be a criterion for the survival of an overclocked module.

Nowadays, memory power consumption has decreased significantly, and a heatsink on a module can be justified from a technical point of view only if you are into overclocking and the module will operate at frequencies that are prohibitive for it. In all other cases, radiators can be justified, perhaps, by their beautiful design.

If the radiator is massive and noticeably increases the height of the memory bar, this is already a significant disadvantage, since it may prevent you from installing a processor super cooler in the system. By the way, there are special low-profile memory modules designed for installation in compact cases. They are slightly more expensive than regular size modules.

What are timings?

Timings, or latency (latency)– one of the most important characteristics of RAM, determining its performance. Let us outline the general meaning of this parameter.

Simply put, RAM can be thought of as a two-dimensional table in which each cell carries information. Cells are accessed by column and row numbers, and this is indicated by the row access strobe RAS(Row Access Strobe) and column access gate CAS (Access Strobe) by changing the voltage. Thus, for each work cycle, accesses occur RAS And CAS, and between these calls and the write/read commands there are certain delays, which are called timings.

In the description of the RAM module you can see five timings, which for convenience are written as a sequence of numbers separated by a hyphen, for example 8-9-9-20-27 .

· tRCD (time of RAS to CAS Delay)- timing, which determines the delay from the RAS pulse to the CAS
· CL (time of CAS Latency)- timing, which determines the delay between the write/read command and the CAS pulse
· tRP (time of Row Precharge)- timing, which determines the delay when transitioning from one line to the next
· tRAS (time of Active to Precharge Delay)- timing, which determines the delay between the activation of the line and the end of working with it; considered the main meaning
· Command rate– defines the delay between the command to select an individual chip on the module until the command to activate the line; this timing is not always indicated.

To put it even more simply, it is important to know only one thing about timings - the lower their values, the better. In this case, the strips can have the same operating frequency, but different timings, and a module with lower values will always be faster. So you should choose the minimum timings; for DDR4, timings for average values will be 15-15-15-36, for DDR3 - 10-10-10-30. It is also worth remembering that timings are related to the memory frequency, so when overclocking you will most likely have to increase the timings, and vice versa - you can manually lower the frequency, thereby reducing the timings. It is most beneficial to pay attention to the totality of these parameters, choosing rather a balance, and not chasing the extreme values of the parameters.

How to decide on a budget?

With a larger amount, you can afford more RAM. The main difference between cheap and expensive modules will be in the timings, operating frequency, and brand - well-known, advertised modules may cost a little more than noname modules from an unknown manufacturer.
In addition, the radiator installed on the modules costs additional money. Not all planks need it, but manufacturers are not skimping on them now.

The price will also depend on the timings; the lower they are, the higher the speed, and, accordingly, the price.

So, having up to 2000 rubles, you can purchase a 4 GB memory module, or 2 2 GB modules, which is preferable. Choose depending on what your PC configuration allows. DDR3 type modules will cost almost half as much as DDR4. With such a budget, it makes more sense to take DDR3.

To the group up to 4000 rubles includes modules with a capacity of 8 GB, as well as sets of 2x4 GB. This is the optimal choice for any task except professional video work and in any other heavy-duty environments.

In total up to 8000 rubles It will cost you 16 GB of memory. Recommended for professional purposes, or for avid gamers - even enough in reserve, while waiting for new demanding games.

If it's not a problem to spend up to 13,000 rubles, then the best choice would be to invest them in a set of 4 4 GB sticks. For this money you can even choose more beautiful radiators, perhaps for later overclocking.

I don’t recommend taking more than 16 GB without the purpose of working in professional heavy environments (and even then not in all), but if you really want it, then for the amount from 13,000 rubles you can climb to Olympus by purchasing a 32 GB or even 64 GB kit. True, this will not make much sense for the average user or gamer - it is better to spend money on, say, a flagship video card.

It’s not without reason that in the specifications for computers, the amount of installed RAM comes immediately after the characteristics of the installed processor. This point must be given due attention when purchasing a computer. After all, the performance of a computer largely depends on RAM, or RAM for short (Random Access Memory). And even more so if it is a gaming computer. What is there to choose? - you say. You need to take the most modern, fastest and largest RAM. It's hard to argue with that. But any business has many nuances.

So, dear blog readers, let's look at everything in order.

What is RAM and what is it for?

First of all, RAM is RAM type memory, i.e. It is rewritable memory and is used by the operating system and other application programs to store data, variable values, etc. In general, its functions end there. Simply put, RAM is a “warehouse” to which programs and applications “deliver” their data for temporary storage. So, for example, when you turn off the computer's power or when you restart programs, all data from it is erased and then recorded again.

Currently, on the RAM market, several dozen manufacturers represent their products, who are trying to make their product better than that of a competitor. When purchasing RAM modules from an average user, the process of choosing RAM can be difficult; I hope that this article will help you decide on the choice of RAM.

RAM parameters. Main characteristics

The main characteristics of RAM are:

Clock frequency (Frequency)
Volume (Capacity)
Memory Type
Operating voltage (Current Voltage)
Timing's
Manufacturer (Brand)

1. Clock frequency (Frequency) – this parameter indicates the operating frequency of the memory module, i.e. this is the frequency of data exchange between the memory module and the CPU. The unit of measurement for this parameter is MHz (MHz). Simply put, this is the speed of exchange between the memory module and the central processor.

2. Capacity – a parameter indicating the physical volume of the module, i.e. This is an address space for storing data. Unit of measurement MB (Mb).

3. Memory type (Type) – the following types of memory are currently available on the market:

DDR
DDR2
DDR3

Each memory type must be compatible with the type that is supported by the motherboard, and it must be listed in the Compatibility List.

4. Operating voltage (Current Voltage) – a parameter showing the rated voltage on the RAM module. All voltages are standardized for each type of memory and are specified in the motherboard BIOS. If the memory module has a voltage different from the standard one, then you must configure this parameter manually by changing the corresponding BIOS menu item. Default for memory type:

— DDR – operating voltage is in the range from 2.4 V to 2.2 V.
— DDR2 – from 2.1 V to 1.8 V.
— DDR3 – from 1.4 V to 1.65 V.

5. Timing’s – represent the time intervals required for recording, rewriting, resetting, etc. memory. When choosing memory, you should look for memory modules that have lower latencies. The reverse principle of “less is better” applies here. However, the following situation occurs - a memory module with high operating frequencies usually has delays higher than low-frequency ones. Therefore, here each user decides for himself what is more important to him. The gain is different in different applications, so in some there will be an increase from lower delays, in others from a higher operating frequency. It’s better to compromise and take a regular module with standard delays, even though it won’t be fast, but you will get stable operation and save money.

6. Manufacturer (Brand) – currently there are a huge number of RAM manufacturers on the market and choosing a manufacturer is a difficult task. Still, the choice should be made towards reputable manufacturers who have been on the market for more than one year. These include the following: Samsung, Hynix, Micron, Hyndai, Corsar, Mushkin, Kingston, Transcend, Patriot, OCZ Technology. The choice of a specific module and series depends on the needs. So, each manufacturer has “overclocked” types of memory, which have an increased operating frequency and increased supply voltage, which entails increased heat generation. That is why such modules are usually equipped with additional heat sinks to dissipate heat.

So what volume, type and brand of RAM should you choose for stable operation of your home computer?

1. The most important rule for determining the amount of RAM is the recommendations and system requirements of the manufacturers of the software that you plan to use on your computer. To do this, it is enough to make an approximate list of these programs, taking into account the operating system that you plan to install. From this list, determine the threshold ones, i.e. upper values of the minimum and recommended memory sizes. As a rule, RAM is installed “with a reserve”, and its volume must be no less than the recommended requirements.

— Minimum: 1 Gb (quite suitable for an office computer);
— Optimal: 2-4 Gb (for a multimedia computer);
— Comfortable: 4 Gb and more (ideal for gaming computers and video processing).

Should I install 8 Gb RAM? Yes, if you want to get the most out of your system, especially when processing HD video content or complex image processing, or if you want to use a virtual machine. In a word, when several resource-intensive applications are used on the computer at the same time.

Moreover, if you plan to use 32-bit Windows XP as an operating system, then there is no point in installing memory more than 3 GB, because this is its limit and it cannot use more than 3 GB. If you increase the volume to 4 Gb or more, you will have to install a 64-bit operating system.

And one more nuance. To increase the speed of RAM, and as a result of the computer as a whole, it is best to install memory sticks in pairs so that they work together in dual-channel mode. That is, if you are thinking of installing 2 GB, then two 1 GB sticks will work better and faster. But it must be taken into account that in order to ensure their operation in dual-channel mode, both strips must be identical in their characteristics: type, volume, frequency, brand. In addition, if the motherboard you choose for a multimedia computer has only two slots for RAM modules, then you can install one 2 GB stick here for the first time. Later, if suddenly there is not enough memory, you can easily add another identical one. If your choice fell on a motherboard with four slots for RAM, then the best option would be to install two 1 GB sticks (later you can add two more similar ones to them, and bring the total volume to 4 GB). But for a gaming computer, when using a dual-slot motherboard, you definitely need to purchase two 2 GB lines.

If you choose RAM for an office version of a computer, one 1 GB stick will be enough, and to it, if something happens, you can also add another one.

2. The type of RAM modules also greatly affects the performance of the computer. Today, DDR2 memory and the newer, faster DDR3 memory are widely used. Moreover, nowadays DDR3 memory has become significantly cheaper than its predecessor, i.e. the choice here is obvious. But again, you need to look at what type of memory your motherboard supports - DDR2 or DDR3, as they are not interchangeable.

There is no point in remembering about DDR type RAM. Firstly, it is already morally outdated; secondly, you simply cannot find it on sale, and it is also difficult to find motherboards that support this type of memory. Although, at present, quite a number of computers still use DDR strips.

3. Well, what is important when choosing RAM is the clock frequency at which this module operates. Here, again, you need to focus primarily on the characteristics of the motherboard, in particular the frequency of the system bus, and select the memory modules that correspond to it. Nothing terrible will happen, of course, but at least it would be unreasonable to install memory with a frequency of 1333 MHz on a motherboard operating at a frequency of 800 MHz. Simply, the memory will operate at the frequency of the motherboard, i.e. 800 MHz. And why, one might ask, was it necessary to overpay?

The specification of memory modules is as follows:

DDR2 (Double Data Rate 2) SDRAM

DDR2 400 MHz or PC2-3200
DDR2 533 MHz or PC2-4200
DDR2 667 MHz or PC2-5400
DDR2 800 MHz or PC2-6400
DDR2 900 MHz or PC2-7200
DDR2 1000 MHz or PC2-8000
DDR2 1066 MHz or PC2-8500
DDR2 1150 MHz or PC2-9200
DDR2 1200 MHz or PC2-9600

Updated 01/16/2018. The information is valid for the whole of 2018.
A modern computer, according to many, consists only of a motherboard, processor and video card. We hasten to dissuade stubborn users - a PC can accommodate a larger number of components.
Today we will talk about random access memory (RAM), consider its characteristics, features, and popular models. After reading the article, you will be able to confidently choose RAM for your computer.

Random access memory or RAM– internal storage designed for quick data exchange between the user and the system. Moreover, unlike a hard drive, RAM is volatile memory. That is, when you turn off the computer, all data in RAM is erased.

Small “bars” store the input and output data of the software and operating system. The speed of data exchange between the processor, hard drive and RAM directly affects the performance of the system.
Today it is difficult to choose RAM, since the abundance of characteristics, manufacturers and design options can easily confuse even experienced buyers, let alone beginners. Therefore, we present to your attention a list of the most important parameters of any “bar” of RAM.

Clock frequency

The first characteristic directly affects memory performance, the speed of working with operands, and user data. However, before purchasing, please review the following features:

Make sure that the RAM clock speed is supported by your existing motherboard and CPU;
the “mother” of the budget segment supports up to 2,400 MHz, middle and premium classes – up to 3,500 MHz;
Previous generations of CPUs are designed for DDR3 memory, the frequency of which ranges from 1,333 to 1,866 MHz;
New generation Intel and AMD Ryzen processors are designed with DDR4 support, clock speeds of 2,400 megahertz and higher.

The characteristics of the motherboard and CPU are easy to find out from official sources, and their real capabilities can be found by trial and error.

It is important to know!
By purchasing a “bar” of RAM, the frequency of which is higher than permissible, you do not harm the computer. This memory will still work. The main drawback is that the clock value will be less than required, which makes the purchase unjustified. For example, the motherboard supports memory with a frequency of 1866 MHz, and you set the bar to 2400 MHz. The system will start without problems, but the memory will only operate at a frequency of 1866 MHz, no more.

Volume

The last century of electronics operated with kilobytes of available space, the modern generation – with gigabytes and terabytes.
The above parameter shows the amount of user and system data that the RAM chip can accommodate. How to choose the optimal amount of RAM? Consider the following information:

The Windows 10 operating system consumes about 2 GB of memory.
2 GB is suitable for office or budget PCs; it is not recommended for purchase.
4 GB is designed to meet the needs of a large number of processes/applications. This is the minimum amount you need to focus on.
8 GB ensures stable and smooth operation of heavy modern games and demanding software (video processing). The most optimal volume to date. In the future, you can buy a second 8 GB stick for a total of 16.
16 GB of RAM guarantees a feeling of flight when launching games, as well as specialized programs. If possible, it is better to buy exactly 16 GB of memory, so that there is a small reserve for the future.
32 GB of RAM will provide a good foundation for the future. But in home systems they will be idle and filled to a maximum of half.

The buyer needs to be reminded of the advantage of multi-channel operation of motherboards with RAM. In other words, a pair of 4 GB sticks is slightly better than one 8 GB stick.

Interesting to know!
Operating systems with 32-bit architecture support up to 3 GB of RAM. When purchasing a stick with a capacity of 4GB or higher, you will have to install a 64-bit OS.

Memory type and operating voltage

Most current motherboards and processors support DDR3 memory, which has a three-channel architecture. The strips have good throughput and a reduced level of required voltage.
The new generation of DDR4 memory modules surpasses its predecessor in key indicators. The new product is not interchangeable due to a mismatch between the existing partition of the motherboard slot. That is, you won’t be able to insert DDR4 into a DDR3 slot.

The abundance of RAM sticks is divided by the amount of energy consumed. If you are expanding the amount of RAM, then make sure that the supply voltage for the components matches. Most motherboards cannot set different power settings for individual system components.
Low consumption will cause instability of the hardware; high consumption will lead to failure of unsuitable components
Let's consider the dependence of RAM on supply voltage:

DDR2 – 1.8 V (obsolete sample (RAM);
DDR3 – 1.5 V (there is a Low modification that reduces power consumption by 0.15 V);
DDR4 – 1.2 V.

Heat dissipation depends on the energy consumed, and accordingly, low indicators reduce the cost of radiator cooling of the component.

It is important to know!
Modern processors work with DDR4, which explains their high frequency characteristics and low energy consumption.

Timings

Latency setting for read and write operations. The sequence of numbers (for example, 3-3-3) indicates: cycle time and full access, respectively.
Timings are measured in nanoseconds, and accepted values range from 2 to 9. The numbers show the number of clock cycles required to execute an operand, a chain of tasks of user or system processes.
The information obtained makes two conclusions possible:

A lower digital sequence value increases the speed of the RAM-CPU connection and the system as a whole.
There is a proportional relationship between throughput and latency.

The choice of the best option falls on the shoulders of the potential consumer. Choose components based on your needs and the role you assign to the RAM chip.

Manufacturer

The electronics market is replete with manufacturers who have proven themselves on the world stage. This is about:

Corsair;
Kingston;
Hynix.

Each RAM stick has a unique marking called P/N or, more simply, a passport. Let's look at the features of electronic cryptography using the example of the Kingston module of the ValueRAM family.
When purchasing a component, we see the following alphanumeric code:
KVR 1066D3D4R7SK2/4G
Let's decipher the strange “message”:

KVR informs about the family and manufacturer;
1066/1333 – bandwidth, measured in gigahertz;
D3 indicates the type of RAM (in our case, DDR3);
D – dual-rank module, physically divided into two halves, united by a common channel (the technology provides a maximum capacity with a limited number of slots);
4 – number of RAM chips;
R – guarantees high-quality operation of components for a maximum period of time;
7 – timing or delay;
S informs about the presence of a temperature sensor on the module;
K2 – the number of “whales” on two strips;
4G – total memory capacity is 4 GB.

It is important to know!
Each manufacturer has its own unique marking. The ability to read it is a useful skill when choosing the best option for a personal computer.

Cooling system

The presence of a heatsink is a justifiable luxury for high-clocked boards. As mentioned above, the amount of throughput affects the level of energy consumption, and that affects the heat dissipation characteristics.
DDR3 strips, with increased transmission capacity, are equipped with aluminum radiators, since the design features contribute to rapid heating.
DDR4, which significantly exceeds its predecessor in clock frequency, does not require the mandatory installation of a cooling system - they are decorative in nature. However, additional elements create inconvenience in handling, and the radiator is also difficult to clean from accumulated dust.

Chip placement

Memory modules have a single-sided or double-sided chip architecture. By and large, this does not affect anything, just a useful fact. The chips look like black rectangles and they can be located either on only one side of the bar or on both.

Review of popular models

First up for consideration is the giant HyperX HX421C14F*2/8.
The marking discussed above will say a lot, but let’s not bore the reader.
The component is DDR4 type, 288-pin form factor. What does it mean? The clock frequency does not exceed 2133 MHz, and the bandwidth is 17000 Mb/s.
The amount of RAM is 8 GB, contained in 1 module.
The number of chips is 8, and their placement has a one-sided structure. Like most of its brothers, the supply voltage is 1.2 V, there is no Low consumption system.
Architectural features include an additional cooling system - a black radiator.
Among the advantages are:

adequate pricing policy;
low heat generation;
support for multi-channel interaction with the motherboard;
maximum clock speeds with a limited number of slots.

So, let's summarize. To choose RAM for a computer, you need to decide whether it will be an office machine or a gaming machine. For office use, 2-4 GB of old generation memory - DDR3 - is quite enough. For a new gaming system, this is a minimum of 8 GB DDR4. The memory frequency for the first option is up to 1866 MHz, and for the second it is at least 2133 MHz. We buy proven solutions from Kingston, Hynix, Samsung, etc. For reliability, we check whether the selected bracket is in the list of compatibility with our motherboard on the official website. For example, for an MSi motherboard, we go to their website, select a specific board model and look for a list of RAM modules compatible with it.

That's it, this knowledge is enough to make a decision. Now you know how to choose RAM, what key parameters it has, and you can even recommend to friends and acquaintances a good RAM bar that will suit them and will delight them with its stable and fast operation. Subscribe and leave your questions in the comments, we’ll sort it out.