In this article we will explain what CUDIMM memory technology is. The memories have numerous models: DIMM, UDIMM, RDIMM, SODIMM and now, to complete the family, the CUDIMM They arrive to solve a problem that arose, believe it or not, due to the much desired high frequencies achieved by DDR5 memories.
In this article we will explain what CUDIMM memories are, what changes they bring and whether it is worth purchasing one.
What is CUDIMM
A CUDIMM (Clocked Unbuffered Dual Inline Memory Module), is a specific type of DDR5 RAM memory regulated by JEDEC at the end of 2023, which brings the solution to signal integrity problems through clock driver chip ou client clock driver (CKD)which stabilize the signals so that no errors occur. To better explain how these processes work, let’s start with the processor (CPU).
To access the data stored in your computer’s memory, the CPU sends signals to activate each chip present in the memory and collect the data necessary to perform a certain task. Even though the CPU is powerful and the number of memory chips is not that large, the physical distance between these components and the high frequencies will be the factors that will cause complications regarding signal integrity. That’s where CKD comes into play.
Instead of the processor taking a longer path to communicate with all memory chips, he informs CKD to do this service for himrelaying the instruction. This better proximity to the chips, although it may seem small, has significant effects in reducing errors and protecting signal stability.
Furthermore, when the CPU sends signals to the memory chips, they end up arriving with noise due to the loss of integrity along the route, caused by high speeds and signal quality throughout the entire journey. This problem is also solved with CKD, which will remove noise and smooth signals, bringing greater safety and reliability to computer use.
Compatibility and models
CUDIMMs, for now, have slightly reduced CPU and motherboard compatibility, with the Intel as the main company supporting to this model. Intel brings compatibility with its Intel Core Ultra series processors, in addition to its latest chipset release, the Z890which already has several models available on the market and you can check them out here!
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For fans of orange processors, MSI has already guaranteed that the X870 and X870E boards, which have an AM5 chipset, have support for CUDIMM memories when combined with AMD Ryzen 8000 and 9000 processors, which already provides an option to use this technology on the Ryzen side of the force, but with compatibility still limited in the number of models that can effectively use the feature.
It is worth pointing out that these memories have been quite impressive with their high transfer rates, with models reaching up to 9,200 MT/s in factory operating mode and over 12,000 MT/s when overclocked. And in recent months, new records have been recorded given the “race” for the highest CUDIMM transfer rates among memory manufacturers, check out some of the news we covered below:
These speeds are only possible thanks to the fifth generation Double Date Rate (DDR5) specification, which expanded storage and performance capabilities, in addition to reducing energy consumption. Which brings up a curious question, the very technology that brought high transfer rates is also “responsible” for creating the signal integrity problem given the transfer speed.
To avoid compatibility issues, chip and motherboard manufacturers will deploy BIOS updates for legacy motherboards that disable the card’s own clock driver if a CUDIMM/CSODIMM is installed.
Kingston
But what if my board or processor doesn’t support CUDIMM? In this case, the memory will continue to function, but below its true potential. For example, the Crucial 16GB DDR5-6400 CUDIMM will have its transfer rate reduced to 5600MT/s or lower; If it is an AMD CPU, rates can drop to 3200MT/s by default, and then also configured at 5600MT/s.
These scenarios may occur with other combinations between CUDIMMs and components that are not compatible with the specification, which will basically make the CUDIMM and a normal UDIMM.
Benchmarks
For the benchmarks, we used the Gigabyte Z890 AORUS PRO ICE motherboard, the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K processor (we have a complete analysis of the GPU here on the website, click here and check it out!) and Kingston Fury Renegade DDR5 memory.
System used in the test:
- Intel Core Ultra 9 285K Processor
- Gigabyte Z890 AORUS PRO ICE motherboard – official website
- 2x Kingston Renegade DDR5 8800 MT/s CUDIMM – site oficial
- Watercooler Thermaltake Th360 V2 Snow
- Fonte CoolerMaster V850
- Open bench
We look for benchmark tests to show several very different scenarios, from professional use to gaming tests.
CPU-Z
Blender
CineBench
AIDA64
V-Ray
3DMark
Gameplay
Assassins Creed Valhalla
Call Of Duty Modern Warfare III
Cyberpunk 2077 – Phantom Liberty
Red Dead Redemption 2
Total War: Warhammer III
Conclusion
This is not the first time we have written an article in which we discuss extremely fast memory technologies, but with very low performance gains, especially if we balance the cost x benefit of acquiring these technologies. As in these other articles, our conclusion here does not change.
It is a product that will still be interesting from the point of view of enthusiastic consumers who want to break records or want to achieve the maximum of what technology has already achieved. For those looking for practicality, the more traditional values of UDIMM memories are certainly more than enough, in addition to bringing a much greater relationship between cost and benefit.
Now it’s time to see what the future of RAM memories will look like as CUDIMM technology becomes more popular and, consequently, becomes more incorporated into users’ machines. And if everything goes well, soon the industry and the average ideal will be normalizing memories of 10 thousand megatransfers.
Fonte: RAM just got a LOT faster! Up to 10,000MHz! / CUDIMM Explained! – DRAM IS CHANGING! / CUDIMM Explained – DIY in 5 Ep 237 /
Source: https://www.adrenaline.com.br/artigos/memoria-cudimm-o-que-e/
