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DDR3 Memory Overview

DDR3 is the next-generation evolution of DDR2 and older DDR memory technology that will break the Gigahertz speed barrier for memory speed.

DDR3 is an industry standard technology defined by JEDEC. JEDEC is the semiconductor standardization body of the Electronic Industries Alliance (EIA). About 300 member companies representing every segment of the industry actively participate to develop standards to meet the industry needs. Kingston is a long-time member of JEDEC and is active on the JEDEC Board of Directors as well as a number of memory technology committees.

DDR3 memory features faster speeds, higher data bandwidths, lower voltage and power consumption, and enhanced thermal performance. DDR3 memory is engineered to support the next-generation quad-processors which require high data bandwidth to enable higher levels of performance.

DDR3 launched for special Intel chipset-based desktops in June 2007, and notebook and server platforms will follow in 2008 and 2009.

Kingston engineers are working closely with Intel engineers to ensure best-compatibility DDR3 desktop, notebook, workstation and server memory. Other platforms and system manufacturers will also support DDR3 as the new memory technology continues its market ramp in 2008.

DDR3 Technology

DDR3 will be available on desktops, servers, notebooks, telecommunications/networking and other platforms in the following form-factors:
  • Unbuffered DIMMs, ECC or non-ECC
  • Registered ECC DIMMs
  • MicroDIMMs
  • SO-DIMMs
  • Custom Modules
DDR3 memory modules come in 1066MHz, 1333MHz and 1600MHz speeds (data rate), with 1066MHz and 1333MHz DDR3 launched in 2007, with 1600MHz DDR3 expected in 2008.

DDR3 memory module components are show below (Unbuffered, Non-ECC DIMM for desktops shown):

DDR3 Components

DDR3 memory modules will not be backward-compatible with DDR2 or DDR modules, due to incompatible pin configurations, voltage, and DRAM memory chip technology. DDR3 modules have a different "key" than DDR modules in the edge connector to prevent insertion into incompatible memory sockets.

DDR3 module

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