DDR5 Memory Upgrades

The fifth generation of DDR SDRAM is here. DDR5 is a game-changer, bringing about significant advancements in traditional DIMM (dual in-line memory module) architecture to elevate memory performance to the next level.

DDR5 delivers:

Higher clock frequencies:
DDR5 runs 2x as fast as DDR4 at base levels. DDR5 operates at stock frequencies of 3200MHz, handling around 3.2 billion commands per second. DDR SDRAM utilizes a dual-data rate bus interface to send and receive data on the rising/falling edges of the clock cycle, doubling the amount of data transferred per cycle to 6400 MT/s (mega transfers per second) with DDR5. A DFE (decision feedback equalizer) is also implemented to increase memory bandwidth. Faster RAM speeds optimize communication between the RAM and other components, improving server performance.

Higher capacities:
Maximum die density on DDR5 memory modules is 64 gigabits per die compared to 16 gigabits per die than that of DDR4. With 4x higher memory density on equivalent surface area, DDR5 greatly outclasses its predecessor at 512GB per module. DDR5 also supports die stacking, allowing manufacturers to stretch capacities to TB territory. Higher RAM capacity enables servers to multi-task more efficiently in a multi-core system.

Increased power efficiency:
DDR5 reduces power consumption from 1.2 volts to 1.1 volts. Unlike previous generations of DDR SDRAM with motherboard controlled functions, DDR5 takes over control of much of the memory-based power management. PMICs (power management integrated circuits) are directly implemented on the DIMM to give DDR5 memory modules full control of voltage regulation, increasing server power management efficiency.

Greater reliability:
DDR5 also introduces on-die ECC (error code correction), moving functionality from the motherboard to the DIMMs themselves. Built-in ECC detects and corrects errors before data is sent to the CPUs. DDR5 also supports standard ECC which offers error detection for errors made in the data transfer process to the CPU. Both on-die and standard ECC protect the system from errors and maximize server uptime.

Improved memory access:
DDR5 also utilizes extended burst chop and burst lengths, doubling the lengths of DDR4. With extended burst chop and burst lengths, more information can be transferred in each transmission between the RAM and CPU, increasing bandwidth.

Dual-Channel DIMMs:
Unlike DDR4 which has one channel per DIMM, DDR5 features two independent channels per DIMM, both of which can issue separate commands. This enables the user to set up a quad channel configuration with just two DIMMs.

Listed below is Axiom's full lineup of DDR5 solutions: