Glossary of terms for Memory
Technology
Technology represents the type of RAM (Random Access Memory) that can be:
SDRAM (Synchronous dynamic random access memory) - is a high performance, faster variant on some other types of RAM. The S stands for "synchronous" because it uses a new technology to send spurts of data at specific intervals of time.
DDR (Double-Data Rate) - essentially doubles the rate of standard SDRAM and any DDR RAM will be quicker than those which are not DDR.
DDR2 is very similar to DDR, but doubles the minimum read or write rate to 4 consecutive words.
DDR3 continues the trend, doubling the minimum read or write rate to 8 consecutive words.
Memory Bandwidth
Memory bandwidth is the rate at which the data can be read or stored into a memory by a processor. Memory bandwidth is usually expressed in units of bytes/second.
Memory Speed
Memory Speed is one way of measuring the overall speed of your RAM. Generally, the faster the speed is, the faster your computer will work.
CAS Latency
CAS (Column Address Strobe) Latency is the delay which elapses between the moment a memory controller tells the memory module to access a particular column in a selected row, and the moment the data from the given array location is available on the module's output pins.
Form Factor
Form Factor describes the way memory will integrate with your computer. Make sure that the memory you buy is compatible with the memory slots in your computer.
Dual channel
Dual-channel architecture describes the technology that theoretically doubles the data transited from the memory to the memory controller. Dual-channel architecture requires a dual-channel capable motherboard and two or more DDR, DDR2 or DDR3 memory modules.