What You Need to Know about 16GB of DDR2 RAM
DDR2 is a type of memory that resides within a computer system and that stores all data currently being used. Short for second-generation double-data rate, DDR2 is a method of improving the transfer capacity of the memory. eBay is your source for all types of new and pre-owned memory solutions.
When should you think about buying more RAM?If you are thinking about upgrading the amount of memory in your computer, or if you want to build a computer from scratch, then it might be a good time to buy additional memory modules. There are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure that you have enough empty memory slots in your motherboard. The 16GB of memory make take up one or multiple modules. Second, be aware that a DDR2 module is only compatible with other DDR2 modules. You cannot mix it with other generations of DDR technology.
What is the difference between desktop and laptop RAM?Desktop and laptop RAM are distinguished from each other by their physical size and the number of pins they contain. The typical DDR2 desktop RAM is known as a dual inline memory module, or DIMM for short. It has 240 pins and a single notch. DDR2 laptop RAM, on the other hand, is known as a small outline dual inline memory module, or SO-DIMM for short. It is about half the physical size of a DIMM and has only 200 pins. The two modules are not compatible with each other.
How do you choose the right DDR2 memory?DDR2 memory is identified by its peak transfer rate. This is determined by the underlying base clock speed. Each type of DDR2 memory has a different model number, such as DDR2-800 or DDR2-1066. However, each model has a secondary name as well. This secondary name refers to the peak transfer rate. For example, DDR2-800 is also known as PC2-6400, which has a peak transfer rate of 6,400 megabytes per second. Generally, the higher number indicates a faster transfer rate. You can mix different types of DDR2 memory together, but they may only operate at the speed of the slowest module.
What are some different types of DDR2 memory?Special types of DDR2 memory are available for purchase, including:
- Error-correcting memory: ECC memory reserves an extra data lane just to correct errors in the memory. This is intended more for technical or scientific applications than for everyday computing.
- Buffered memory: Buffered memory reduces the electrical load on the system when too many memory modules are used at once. This method is frequently used in servers. A specialized motherboard is required to use buffered memory.