Micron DDR3 SDRAM 8 GB Capacity per Module Memory (RAM)

Choosing the Right DDR3 SDRAM

Your computer can't function without RAM, so choosing the right memory modules is very important. DDR3 SDRAM is widely available and compatible with a lot of different motherboards, and companies like Micron make a lot of different capacities and types to choose from.

What Is DDR3 SDRAM?

• SDRAM stands for Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory. SDRAM synchronizes data transfers with the CPU to make them more efficient.
• DDR stands for Double Data Rate. DDR memory transfers data twice on each clock cycle, so it is twice as fast as older SDR RAM.
• DDR3 is the third generation of DDR SDRAM. Successive generations have become both faster and more power-efficient. Different generations also have different numbers of pins, so you need to make sure that they will actually be compatible with your motherboard. This is especially important if you want to use multiple memory modules, as you can't mix DDR3 with DDR2 or other generations.

How Much RAM Do I Need?

• The more RAM capacity you have, the more operations your computer can carry out simultaneously. When deciding how much to install, consider the kinds of things that you are likely to be using it for. You should also remember that having lots of computer memory won't lead to better performance if other components like the CPU are less powerful.
• If you just want to browse the Internet, send emails, and use word processing software, you don't need much. Installing 4 GB could be plenty.
• Installing 8 GB of DDR3 RAM gives you enough for most non-specialist uses, including gaming.
• 16 GB or more might be necessary if you need a very high-performance machine for very memory-hungry applications. You should consider this capacity if you want to max out all the settings on the latest games or do video editing work.

Which Other Specifications Should I Look At?

• Frequency and data rate are two ways of measuring the same thing: how quickly your memory module can process data. It is often included in the name of the module. For example, DDR3-1333 is DDR3 SDRAM that runs at 1333 MHz. It could also be called PC3-10600, because DDR3 running at 1333 MHz transfers up to 10600 megabytes per second.
• Make sure that the form factor is right for your machine. DIMM is the standard size, designed for desktop computers. SO-DIMM modules are smaller in size and usually found in laptops. They have different numbers of pins, so they aren't compatible.
• Some companies, like Micron, make DDR3L memory. This is designed to run at a lower voltage than regular DDR3, making it more power-efficient, although it can also run at standard voltage. To run it at low voltage, you also need a compatible motherboard.

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