For years, we've been stuck with the same basic DIMM memory modules for our desktop PCs. But a new memory technology called CAMM2 is looking to shake things up in a major way.
What is CAMM2?
CAMM2, which stands for "Compression Attached Memory Module," is a new memory standard developed by Dell that promises some big advantages over traditional DIMMs which use edge connectors and had been in use for more than few decades. With the publication of JESD318, It recently got the official thumbs up from JEDEC, the organization that governs semiconductor standards.
So what makes CAMM2 so special? For starters, it has a much slimmer and more compact design compared to bulky DIMMs. This low profile prevents any interference with tall CPU coolers and opens the door for new cooling solutions right on the memory modules themselves.
The space-saving design also allows CAMM2 modules to be placed closer to the CPU socket for potentially higher data transfer speeds and lower latencies. Music to any gamer or performance enthusiast's ears!
CAMM2 Dual Channel & Multi-Channel configurations
CAMM2 supports both DDR5 and LPDDR5/5X varieties to cover desktops, laptops, and even servers. It's designed to be scalable too, with options for single, dual, and even multi-channel module configurations down the road.
CAMM2 has a clever scalable design that allows for both single and dual-channel memory modules. The CAMM2 connector can essentially be split lengthwise into two separate single-channel connectors.
One half supports a single DDR5 memory channel with a low 2.85mm profile height. The other half supports a second independent DDR5 channel but with an elevated 7.5mm height.
This split, stacked configuration enables higher memory capacities compared to using just a single CAMM2 module at the standard low profile height.
However, motherboard makers can also choose to implement a full, undivided CAMM2 connector to use conventional dual-channel memory modules if preferred.
The versatile CAMM2 design provides this flexibility, allowing single, dual, or even future multi-channel memory configurations on a single motherboard. It gives users the ability to scale up memory capacities significantly by combining both stacked and unstacked CAMM2 modules together.
Memory Makers On Board
Leading memory makers like Samsung, Micron, and Kingston are already on board with capacities pushing 192GB per module and higher speeds than current DDR5. That's a staggering amount of memory potential for future desktops and workstations.
TeamGroup Unveils Blazing-Fast CAMM2 Modules
Adding to the CAMM2 momentum, TeamGroup is introducing its T-Create Expert AI series LPDDR5X CAMM2 memory modules at Computex 2024. These headlining new RAM modules come in blazing LPDDR5X-7200 and LPDDR5X-6400 speeds, with CL28/CL24 latencies, in 32GB/64GB capacities.
TeamGroup is targeting the generative AI market, touting the benefits of its ultra-fast new memory for high-speed AI computing in a space-saving CAMM2 form factor. It's using advanced chip binning and its own graphene heatsinks for superior performance and cooling.
Motherboards Are Coming
Of course, we'll need CAMM2-compatible motherboards to take advantage of this new tech. But all major brands are ready, with plans to showcase CAMM2 solutions at Computex 2024 very soon.
While the initial CAMM2 motherboard models will be on higher-end enthusiast-focused boards, you can expect the technology to proliferate across mainstream and budget offerings as it matures. Widespread availability across all price points will be key for CAMM2's adoption.
It will also be interesting to see if motherboard vendors look at implementing CAMM2 on non-desktop platforms like compact Mini-ITX boards for small form factor PCs, where the space savings could be beneficial.
With motherboard support locked in, the final piece will be CAMM2 memory module availability from major RAM suppliers like we're already seeing from TeamGroup, Kingston, Crucial and others.
Will CAMM2 Catch On?
Only time will tell if CAMM2 lives up to the hype and replaces trusty old DIMMs as the new standard for desktop memory. It's always exciting when fundamental PC components evolve with meaningful improvements.
CAMM2 appears to be a breakthrough memory technology with a lot of potential benefits like a smaller footprint, better CPU integration, higher speeds, more capacity, and improved cooling potential. However, we'll have to wait and see how motherboard makers and consumers actually react.
For CAMM2 to be a mainstream success, we'll need a good selection of CAMM2-enabled motherboards across all price points from major brands. Memory makers will also need to deliver on those promised speeds and capacities in modules available at reasonable costs.
It could take a couple of years for the CAMM2 ecosystem to fully mature. But the prospects are certainly exciting for giving our future desktop PCs a true memory upgrade after being stuck with DIMMs for so long. Here's hoping CAMM2 can live up to its breakthrough potential!
Biggest Challenge
With CAMM2's compact size and stacked module capabilities, we'll have to wait and see how memory makers integrate customizable RGB lighting effects.
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