How to choose RAM - criteria and characteristics. How to find out the type of RAM Good RAMs are produced by companies

Hello everyone, today I want to write an article that concerns. Many people ask this question: how to find out the type of RAM on your computer? But that's not the only question they ask. You can often hear or see the question of how to choose the right RAM, how much RAM does it cost, how can I find out in which mode it works - single-channel or dual-channel, and which purchase option will be most acceptable - one 8 GB stick or two 4 GB sticks? Today, in this one article we will try to sort out all these points.

How to find out the type of RAM

If you want to find out the necessary information about RAM, for example, frequency, volume, type of RAM, then this is usually marked on the module itself; if this is not there, then you will have to look for information about and. Sometimes this can be difficult and time-consuming.

• I want to explain a few points. If you have a processor Intel Core i3, i5 or i7, then you should know that the RAM controller is located in the processor, and previously it was located in the north bridge of the motherboard. Therefore, all RAM modules, if there are Intel Core processors, are controlled by them.

• Now another important point. From the above it follows that now it doesn’t matter what RAM frequency your motherboard supports, you need to look at what RAM frequency your processor supports. For example, Intel Core i3, i5 and i7 processors support the following RAM specifications: PC3-8500 (DDR3- 1066 MHz), PC3-10600 (DDR3- 1333 MHz), PC3-12800 (DDR3- 1600 MHz). These frequencies are the ones at which it will work RAM. If the motherboard supports, say, a frequency of 2400 MHz, then this does not matter.

• If you have a processor with an unlocked multiplier, this is when there is a "" at the end TO", For example, Intel Core i7 6700K, this means that the RAM sticks will operate at the highest frequency, for example, 1866 MHz or 2400 MHz. In an overclocked processor, RAM can operate at a frequency of 2400 MHz. If you install RAM sticks with the maximum frequency, and your processor has a locked multiplier, then in the best case, the RAM will operate at a frequency of 1600 MHz, or the computer will not boot at all. Therefore, when choosing RAM, always pay attention to these points.

In the screenshot below we see a RAM bar with some information written on it, how can we read it?

Here are the notations:

• 4GB– RAM capacity 4 GB.

• 1Rx8- this is Rank - which means a memory area that is created by several or all of the module's chips. For example, 1Rx8 means single-sided memory rank, and 2Rx8 means double-sided.

• The type of DDR2 or DDR3 is not indicated on the bar, but there is a bandwidth - PC3-12800. PC3 means peak throughput, which only applies to DDR3 type. (If there was PC2, it would belong to the DDR2 type).

As you can see, this RAM stick is DDR3 type, and the bandwidth is PC3-12800. The number 12800 needs to be divided by 8, then you get 1600 MHz, which is the frequency of the RAM.

Here is a table of standards specifications to make it more clear about other types of RAM.

Let's look at another RAM module.

In the example we see that the RAM has a capacity of 4 GB, type DDR3 and throughput RS3-10600. Divide the number 10600 by eight and get a frequency of 1333 MHz.

Well, we actually figured out how to determine the type of RAM by appearance.

It is worth noting that all RAM sticks, depending on the type, differ in the size of the contact pads and the location of the cutouts. Thus, you will not be able to install a RAM module into a slot that is not intended for it. Let's say you have a DDR3 module. It will no longer be possible to install it in a DDR2 slot.

Here is a diagram that shows everything clearly:

It happens that the necessary information is practically not on the module, and if it is removed, the warranty will be void. Fortunately, we can determine everything we need by the name of the module itself.

Let's say we are given a module with the name Kingston KHX1600C9D3X2K2/8GX. Each characteristic in the name of this module means the following:

• KHX1600– module frequency is 1600 MHz.
• C9– Timings (the fewer there are, the faster the RAM works) 9-9-9.
• D3– DDR3 type
• 8GX– The amount of RAM is 4 GB. The letter X at the end means support for the XMP profile.

If you couldn’t determine anything at all or there is completely different information written there, then you can type the name of the memory stick into a search engine and determine the necessary information. You can also determine the type of RAM. It will show you in detail about all the components of the computer.

Is it possible to install RAM of different frequencies?

They say that the frequency of RAM on the slats should be the same, in fact, this is not a necessary condition. The motherboard will set the frequency for all modules to the slowest level. Sometimes, the computer may be unstable with different RAM speeds.

Is it possible to install RAM modules at a frequency higher than that supported by the motherboard?

You need to remember that RAM modules must be supported by your processor and motherboard. If you installed modules with a frequency of 1866 MHz or even 2400 MHz, and the motherboard supports 1600 MHz, then in the best case, the module will operate at a frequency of 1600 MHz, and in the worst case, the module will operate at 1866 MHz, but the computer will reboot frequently, all sorts of errors and blue screens appear. In this case, you will have to manually set the frequency to 1600 MHz.

What are timings?

RAM timings determine how often the processor accesses RAM. If you have a 4-core processor with a 2nd level cache, then you should not pay much attention to high timings, since the processor accesses RAM less. Timings may vary on memory modules. The motherboard will still set the timing to the slowest module.

What is needed for dual-channel operation?

Before you buy new memory modules, it is worth studying the characteristics of the motherboard in great detail. Usually all this can be found out from the documentation offered for it; if it is not there, then you can find it on the official website of the motherboard. Modern motherboards most often support dual-channel mode.

If the slots on the motherboard are painted in different colors, this means that it supports dual-channel operation. Thus, you can install two RAMs with the same characteristics in slots of the same color.

Look, maybe your mate. The board supports dual-channel mode, then you can buy more RAM. Remember, the strips must have the same characteristics.

What is the difference between dual channel and single channel mode?

The note! If you install RAM modules of different sizes, the dual-channel mode will still work for them. Let's say one stick has 1 GB, and the second 2 GB, then the motherboard activates the dual-channel mode for the 1 GB stick completely, and for the second stick also 1 GB, the remaining 1 GB volume will work in single-channel mode.

In what mode does my RAM work - single-channel or dual-channel?

To determine this you need to download a special utility CPU-Z. Let's launch it and go to the tab "Memory", there we see a point "#Channel", which matters Dual. This means that the RAM operates in dual-channel mode. If it were there Single, that means there would be a single-channel mode.

There is also a three-channel mode - Triple Mode, but it is used quite rarely.

What will work better, two 4 GB modules in dual-channel mode or one 8 GB module in single-channel mode?

A rather controversial issue, but after some observations it turned out that during normal work on a computer there will be no difference, but when using large graphics and video editors the difference will be noticeable; in our case, two 4 GB sticks will work faster.

Is it permissible to install memory modules with different sizes and frequencies?

That's all, if you have any questions, ask them in the comments.

To determine the amount of RAM, random access memory of a laptop or computer, you can use the operating system tools. But if you dig deeper and get comprehensive data, then Windows capabilities are not enough. And in this case, tools will come to the rescue that will complement the information obtained by OS tools. For example, using the program you can find out the frequency and type of RAM. At the end of the article, we will list all third-party utilities, free and demo versions, and discuss their capabilities in more detail.

Why you need to know the type of RAM

• CPU 2.2 GHz
• 1, 5 or 2 Mb RAM
• HDD 25 GB

And if your PC does not meet these parameters, you can increase the RAM by adding another module, or change it to a different size. In this case, the processor and motherboard must support RAM. If you decide not to change the RAM, but to add another stick to the one already on your PC, it must correspond to it. In this case, it is desirable that both the first and second memory modules have the same volume. This is necessary for the computer/laptop to work quickly, without lags or slowdowns.

Visual method

You can look at the warranty card or in an online store, if you do not throw away such things after purchases, and if the memory has not been changed during the operation of the PC.

3. Determining RAM using Windows

This can be done in two ways and one of them is BIOS:

• when the computer/laptop boots up, press one of the function keys;
• All information about the motherboard is contained in Memory Information.

For example, if you install two sticks of 2 GB each on Windows in 32-bit, then the size of the working memory will be 3 GB. The operating system does not use or display another 1 GB. If you want to have more memory, the system must be 64-bit. In this case, the OS will show it and use it in its work.

Determining RAM using third-party programs

In addition, utilities can determine how many RAM module slots your computer's mother memory can accommodate, and what RAM is installed on them. The application program will tell you all the technical information about the PC. It is used by IT and computer repair specialists, as well as gamers. It is available on many sites with software, but it is better to use the version that is presented on official page manufacturer. This ensures that a working and improved version is downloaded.

• The Memory tab contains some information;
• here you can see the frequency and type of RAM.

And if you want to determine RAM timings (the time spent by RAM chips to perform certain operations) and operating frequency, use the menu of the same name, Timings.

To determine the number of RAM sticks available on the computer and the slots in which they are located, you need to open another tab, SPD, and perform two steps:

1. study the list of slots into which RAM modules are connected;
2. Select the connector that interests you and view information about it on the tab.

How to find out the resources of your PC:

• run the tool;
• wait for the program to scan the computer;
• go to the menu and find “Motherboards”;
• open SPD.

• dimensions of the strips available on the PC;
• who made them and what model it is;
• at what speed do memory modules operate, and what type is installed on the PC;
• how many bits does the bus have?

conclusions

RAM is one of the most important components of any computer and certainly a guarantee of operating speed. IN modern world Even the processor frequency does not affect the overall perception of speed as much as the RAM. But in order to replace or add this component, you need to thoroughly know all its characteristics - and RAM has a lot of them. So, how do you find out what RAM is in your computer? In this article.

How to find out what RAM is on your computer

RAM has several division branches:

• the first is volume, a fairly obvious characteristic. The more the better, but look at the processor and motherboard - they support the increase up to a certain ceiling;
• the second characteristic is type. An ancient SIMM, a slightly less ancient SDRAM... Well, this is unlikely, of course, although it is not excluded. And modern DDR standards - from first to fourth;
• and finally the memory frequency. Here, as in the case of processor frequency, the higher the better. However, again make sure that your processor runs at this frequency. If it doesn't start, it will be quite a shame.

So, let's start studying these signs.

Simple inspection

The most obvious way to find out your computer's RAM type is without even turning it on. In many cases, it allows you to determine the required characteristics with absolute accuracy, but it also has a number of significant disadvantages. You will have to open the computer - for some this is a significant stopping factor. The sticker on the memory stick may not correspond to reality, be insufficiently informative, as with many not very well-known manufacturers, or be completely absent. However, this method can be used quite well.

Note. There is another labeling standard. Pay attention to the picture above. In brackets on the sticker you can see the inscription PC3 10600. These are nothing more than encoded characteristics, excluding volume. PC3 - DDR3, 10600 - frequency. To get the usual value in megahertz, you need to divide this number by 8. You get the familiar 1333.

You can also add that the type of memory can be determined by the location of the contacts and cutouts on the bottom edge, but this is a rather complicated and unnecessary method, so we will bypass it.

Diagnostics in BIOS

This is also quite a convenient method. There is no need to open the computer, but at the same time there is no need to clutter the system with all kinds of diagnostic programs. Simple and tasteful. On the downside, not all BIOSes can display complete information about memory, but this is a rare case these days.

How to decipher such an inscription - see the note to the first method.

Operating system tools

The simplest of all methods. However, it is also the most limited. If it is enough for you to know only how much RAM you have, this is for you, because on its own the system cannot determine either the frequency, much less the type of RAM. But this is only about Windows - macOS can do more.

In the case of macOS:

If you have Windows, then everything is not so smooth:

The processor and the system bit capacity are indicated there, but very little is written about memory - only the volume. So you won't have much fun.

Find out detailed information about the components of your PC in the article -

Third party diagnostic apps

Space for work. Many third-party diagnostic utilities that can thoroughly determine everything, including the exact model of your boards and their location in the slots of the motherboard. It’s not possible to cover them all, so let’s consider at least a couple.

AIDA64

A diagnostic utility that is popular among many. Distributed in both free and commercial versions.

CPU-Z

Second most popular third party application. It has the same intuitive interface, and in general duplicates the functions of the previous example, with the exception of a rather important detail - it has a portable version. You don't have to install it.

As in the previous case, in the program interface we look for the “Memory” and “SPD” items. In the drop-down list, we select information about which slot we want to view, and the program will immediately display all its characteristics. Everything, down to details like the serial number.

Ready! We hope these methods helped you find all the information you need. Good luck!

Video - How to find out what RAM is worth

Random Access Memory (RAM) is one of the main parts of a computer. This is a volatile component that stores machine code, incoming/outgoing and intermediate data while the computer is running. The process of choosing RAM seems clear at first glance, but it contains many nuances that need to be taken into account in order to purchase quality components.

The easiest way to choose a RAM stick is to use the list of recommended modules on the website of the manufacturer of the motherboard installed on the computer. Since these parts of the PC are inextricably linked with each other (including the processor), it makes sense to pay attention to the manufacturer’s advice. The recommended RAM modules listed on his website will definitely work on your PC.

Another tip to follow when purchasing RAM sticks is matching with other hardware. When buying an inexpensive motherboard and a budget processor, do not choose expensive RAM, because it will not reveal its potential during operation. But it is very important to pay attention to specifications RAM.

Main settings

When purchasing new RAM, pay attention to the main parameters that will help you make the right choice.

First, determine what type of RAM is suitable for your motherboard. This parameter is indicated in its description. Today there are four types: SDRAM, DDR (DDR1), DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4.

The most common type of RAM today is DDR3. Unlike modules of the previous generation, it operates at a clock frequency of up to 2400 MHz and consumes 30-40% less power compared to its predecessor. In addition, it has a lower supply voltage, so it generates less heat.

All types of RAM are incompatible with each other electrically (the supply voltage differs) and physical parameters(control holes are located in different places). The photo shows why a DDR3 RAM module cannot be installed in the DDR2 socket.

Healthy! Now the DDR4 standard is gaining popularity. It features lower power consumption and higher operating frequencies (prospect for growth up to 3200 MHz).

The form factor characterizes the size of the RAM sticks. There are two types:

• DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module) – installed on desktop PCs;
• SO-DIMM – for installation in laptops or monoblocks.

Bus frequency and bandwidth

The performance of RAM depends on these two parameters. The bus frequency characterizes the amount of information transmitted per unit of time. The higher it is, the more information will pass through the bus in the same time period. There is a directly proportional relationship between bus frequency and bandwidth: if the RAM frequency is 1800 MHz, theoretically it has a bandwidth of 14400 MB/sec.

Do not chase high RAM frequencies on the basis of “the more, the better.” For the average user, the difference between 1333 MHz or 1600 MHz is invisible. It is important only for professional users who are engaged in video rendering, or for overclockers trying to “overclock” the RAM.

When choosing a frequency, take into account the tasks you set for the computer and its configuration. It is desirable that the operating frequency of the RAM modules coincide with the frequency at which the motherboard operates. If you connect a DDR3-1800 stick to a motherboard that supports the DDR3-1333 standard, the RAM will run at 1333 MHz.

In this case, the more, the better - this is the optimal description of the parameter. Today, the minimum allowable amount of RAM that should be installed on a computer or laptop is 4 GB. Depending on the tasks performed on the device, the amount of RAM can be 8, 32 or even 128 GB. For an ordinary user, 8 GB will be enough; for a specialist working with video processing programs, or for a gamer, 16-64 GB of RAM will be needed.

RAM timings are characterized by delays in operation. They are calculated in nanoseconds, and in the description they are indicated by a sequential set of numbers: 9-9-9-27, where the first three parameters are: CAS Latency, RAS to CAS Delay, RAS Precharge Time and DRAM Cycle Time Tras/Trc. They characterize the performance in the “memory-processor” segment, which directly affects the efficiency of the computer. The lower these values, the lower the delay and the faster the PC will perform.

Some companies indicate only one number in the description of RAM modules - CL9. It characterizes CAS Latency. Basically it is equal to or lower than other parameters.

Good to know! The higher the RAM frequency, the higher the timings, so you need to choose the optimal ratio for yourself.

RAM sticks are sold with the designation “Low Latency”. This means that at high frequencies they have low timings. But their cost is higher than that of conventional models.

Modes

To increase computer performance, special operating modes of RAM strips are used: one-, two-, three-channel and Flex-Mode. In this case, the speed of the system theoretically increases two, three or more times.

Important! Motherboard must support these operating modes. The description for it indicates which slots you need to install the brackets in to enable the desired mode.

• Single channel mode starts when one RAM module is used or all the sticks have different parameters. In this case, the system operates at bar speed with the lowest frequency.
• Dual channel mode turns on when two RAM modules with the same characteristics (frequency, timings, volume) are installed in the connectors. The performance increase is 10-20% in games and 20-70% when working with graphics.
• Three channel mode activated when three identical RAM sticks are connected. In reality, it does not always outperform dual-channel mode.
• Flex-Mode (flexible)– increases PC performance when using two RAM sticks of the same frequency, but different in volume.

Important! It is advisable that the memory sticks be from the same delivery batch. There are kits on sale consisting of two to four modules that are completely compatible with each other in operation.

When buying digital equipment, pay attention to the manufacturer. Among the companies producing RAM modules, the most popular are: Corsair, Kingston, GoodRam, Hynix, Samsung and others.

It is interesting that the market for the production of memory chips for RAM modules is almost completely divided between three large companies: Samsung, Hynix, Micron. A large manufacturers use their chips to produce their own models.

Modern RAM sticks operate at low power consumption, so they generate little heat. In view of this, there is no need to buy models with installed radiators. But if you are a fan of overclocking hardware, then take care of purchasing RAM modules with heatsinks. They will prevent them from burning out during overclocking.

If necessary, the user can purchase a cooling system for RAM, consisting of radiators and fans. It is also intended for use by overclockers.

Selecting an existing plank

When purchasing a new RAM module to add to one already installed in your PC, remember that often such combinations do not work together. But if you decide to buy, make sure that the timings and bus frequencies are the same. In addition, choose RAM sticks from the same manufacturer.

Video

If you don't fully understand how to choose RAM, watch this video.