What is SPD of RAM memories

Because it is somewhat forgotten when we talk about memories, the SPD ends up going unnoticed when talking about computer RAM. Therefore, in this article, we will explain what SPD is, how they work and their importance in RAM memories.

What is SPD and how does it work

SPD (Serial Presence Detect) is a technology used in RAM memory modules. It involves a small EEPROM chip that stores information about the memory module, such as capacity, speed and latency.

When memory is installed on the motherboard, the SPD transmits this information to the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), which then automatically configures the memory’s operating parameters to obtain the best possible performance. This includes latency, frequency, and voltage adjustments.

The creation of SPD was motivated by the need for a system that could automatically identify memory characteristics, such as speed, type and capacity, thus facilitating the configuration and optimization of the system by the user or by the operating system itself.

This demonstrates the main objective of SPD: to simplify the RAM memory configuration process, eliminating the need for manual adjustments that can be complex and prone to errors. With SPD, the motherboard can recognize and configure memory efficiently, ensuring compatibility and optimized performance.

🤑 Adrenaline offer groups 💵
❯ Telegram: https://t.me/ofertasadrenaline
❯ Whatsapp: https://bit.ly/canalofertasadrenaline

How to see SPD from your memories

There are a few ways to view the information that SPD handles, one of which is the CPU-Z app, one of the main software for monitoring data from hardware components. SPD information can be found in the tab with the same name; Below is an image to illustrate.

To learn more about CPU-Z and how it works, click here!

Evolution of SPD

Since its introduction, SPD has evolved to support a wider range of memory specifications and to provide more detailed information. This has been important as memories have become faster and more complex, with the introduction of new standards such as DDR, DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4. SPD has also played a crucial role in compatibility between different brands and models of memory, helping to ensure that systems operate reliably.

SPD is an essential component of modern memory modules, playing a key role in automatic configuration and system performance. Its evolution over the years reflects advances in memory technology and the continuous search for more efficient and easier-to-use systems. For more information about SPD and its functionality, you can consult specialized sources such as Clube do Hardware.

On the other hand, we criticize the system, which still forces the user to load memory profiles if they work at speeds higher than the installed processor. Even DDR5 memory kits released in 2024 still require user action, loading the Intel XMP or AMD Expo profile into the motherboard’s BIOS, to work at their maximum speed.

With so many developments and efforts to make systems easier and more practical, these characteristics of RAM memories still need to improve.

General information about system memories

Below are some ways to view data from the memories installed on your system without using third-party applications, all natively through Windows itself. This data does not transmit information from the SPD of the memories.

Windows Task Manager

• Pressure Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
• Go to the “Performance” tab and click on “Memory”. Although this tab provides basic memory information, it does not detail the SPD.

Command Prompt

• Open Command Prompt (type cmd in the Windows search bar and press Enter);
• Enter the command wmic memorychip get devicelocator, manufacturer, partnumber, serialnumber, capacity, speed, memorytype, formfactor and press Enter. This command will display various information about the memory modules.

Other information and diagnostic tools

As some other system information and diagnostic tools we can mention AIDA64 and HWinfo, which can also provide detailed information about RAM memory, including SPD data. These applications are very useful and pass data from various other components of your computer.