How to choose DDR3 RAM for PC and notebook: timing, frequency, volume, acceleration

Features of DDR3 memory standard

Random-access memory, or RAM, a volatile memory, which stores various types of data processed by the processor. In fact, the RAM is a set of capacitors and transistors. Accumulates charge on the capacitors, the tour is controlled via transistor. Thus, a set of data, depending on whether the capacitor is charged or not.

Sheer DDR SDRAM abbreviation means twice memory type data rate. Standard DDR3 DDR2 come on shift, which is logical. Compared to the previous type, the new product has a larger size of the swap, reducing energy consumption and process technology, which is allowed to place on the scheme more elements. In addition to standard DDR3 embodiment, there is DDR3L, and DDR3U, which use less power. Server operational DDR3 memory typically incompatible with desktop versions and has a large volume, frequency, and cost.

What is different from DDR3 RAM DDR4

DDR4 standard was first introduced in 2011. A mass markets began to fill in 2015 Compared with of DDR3, it has twice the number of domestic banks, greater bandwidth and reliability due to new control mechanisms. As for the physical compatibility, the previous type DDR4 memory is incompatible. That is, put the bar in the DDR4 DDR3 connector does not work, and vice versa. Interestingly, the tests show a slight increase DDR4 memory speed, unlike of DDR3, in tasks related to daily work, Web surfing, working on documents, watching videos, etc. However, more specialized tasks (rendering video, games, compiling and modeling) DDR4 memory format with high frequencies reveals itself in all its glory.

What is the RAM in the computer.In a special publication of our portal, we describe in detail about the RAM. You will learn the characteristics of memory, how do you know the amount of RAM installed on your computer, RAM species on the computer, and how to maximize what the ROM.

How to choose DDR3 RAM for your computer

In order to select the RAM is not enough to simply buy the first available in the bar and stick it to the motherboard. For stable and optimized operation required number of channels to choose the correct frequency, volume and timing. On this and many other existing nuances, we'll continue.

How to choose the frequency of DDR3 memory

RAM frequency indicates the amount of data that can pass through the channel per time unit. The higher the number, the faster will be the exchange of data between the card and the processor. Frequency has its own nuances. Before buying should make sure that the motherboard is capable of operating at a maximum frequency of RAM. In addition, the frequency of memory 2 strips should be the same, since the motherboard can lower the overall frequency to a minimum value.

How to choose the amount of memory DDR3

With the volume is a little easier: the higher the value, the better. However, it should be borne in mind that a 32-bit operating systems can not work with a memory capacity greater than 4 GB. Even if you install 16 GB per system, the operating system will only see 3 of them.

What better timings for DDR3 memory

RAM timings are also known as latency. They describe the timing signal delay in the area between the processor and RAM. Typically timings are recorded in RAM specifications four digits. Without going into technical details, each of the figures shows a single type of latency of the memory. When you select should be guided by the rule: the lower the latency, the better.

Top of DDR3 memory modules, according to the editorial

We decided to put together a small survey of several memory options, which, in our opinion, are considered to be the most optimal.

HyperX HX324C11SRK2 / 16

This set of modules of 2 pieces. Each strip has 8 GB. The maximum frequency is 2 claimed 400MHz. A maximum capacity - 19200 MB / s. Memory timings are not the smallest. However, RAM has an own profiles XMP into two kinds of frequencies with which to adjust the performance of their system. Buy this DDR3 RAM of 8 GB for the PC can be for 13,600 rubles.

Ballistix BLT2CP4G3D1608DT1TX0CEU

This set also consists of two strips of 4 GB. RAM frequency is 1600 MHz. Capacity - 12800. The timings in this embodiment, low, and each of them is 8. That is, a low-cost solution with the potential for overclocking. The cost is 5200 rubles.

RAM 4 Gb Kingston KVR16N11S8 / 4

The set consists of one module 4 GB, a frequency of 1600 MHz. Working plate with timings 11/11/11. Buy this DDR3 RAM 4 Gb PC can be up to 2 000 rubles.

RAM DDR3 Hynix DDR3 1333 DIMM 2Gb

This amount is rarely used on older systems. This is evidenced by the small frequency of 1333 MHz. Buy this DDR3 RAM to 2 GB can be priced at 900 rubles.

Corsair CMZ16GX3M2A1600C10

Another set of two modules for 8GB. The frequency is not the highest - 1600 MHz, and capacity - 12800 MB / s. Timings were distributed as follows: 10/10/10/27. Voltage is 1.5 V. Buy this kit can be for 9000 rubles.

G.SKILL F3-2400C10D-16GTX

One of the top sets of RAM. The total volume is 16 GB, there are two 8 GB bar. The maximum possible speed - 2400 MHz. Timings are relatively low - 10/12/12/31. The cost - 18 600 rubles.

Kingston KVR16S11S8 / 4

Inexpensive memory of 4 Gb DDR3 Laptop at a budget price. It comprising a single module, whose frequency is 1600 MHz bandwidth at 12,800 Mb / s. Timings average - 11/11/11. Buy this DDR3 RAM 4 Gb for a laptop can be up to 2 200 rubles.

Corsair CMSX8GX3M1A1600C10

RAM to DDR3 laptop to 8 Gb for the price of 6 000 rubles. From the characteristics can be identified in the 1600 MHz frequency, bandwidth 10 12800 and CAS timing.

How to install and set up DDR3 RAM

In the installation process there is nothing difficult and terrible. Slide the card in the wrong slot will not work anyway. Before installation, remove static electricity from, for example, touching the system unit. This will prevent damage to the module and motherboard components during operation.

Each module is equipped with a key - a slot on the motherboard. With it installed correctly determined. It should coincide with a partition in the slot. With a memory slot, you need to make a little effort until it clicks. This sound indicates that the latches have risen to the desired position and fixed module. Immediately after installing the RAM can be run in the default mode, not using the most effective frequency. So you have to first look into the BIOS. If it supports XMP profiles, you can choose a ready, if not, it is necessary to set the value manually.

How to overclock DDR3 memory

On RAM speed mainly affected by two parameters: the frequency and timings. Disperse possible both using the same or different. Is it possible at all to find an ideal stable solution. maneuvering values ​​between the two.

Selecting an acceleration method for frequency and timings

Increase memory frequency by using the FSB - increasing the frequency of the system bus. The entire overall performance increase. In different versions of BIOS may be denoted as a ratio of 1: 1, 1: 2, or as a percentage. If the motherboard supports embedded profiles, the task is greatly simplified. To set a frequency manually should gradually, in small steps. After every change you need to boot into the operating system and test it for stability in productive games or tests. If the system is stable, it is possible to try to raise more.

Performance with timings can also be made out of the BIOS, or using special tools directly into the operating system. 4 Basic timing have the greatest impact on performance - CL, tRCD, tRP, tRAS. They are specified in the RAM specifications. To improve performance, they should be reduced. This should be done in the same way as with the frequency gradually, each time checking the stability of the system.

It is interesting that sometimes the fastest memory timings at different frequencies may provide good overall results. So after finding the ideal stable value can play a bit with the frequencies and timings in different directions and to compare performance.

How to set values ​​and change the settings

To correctly set up the performance, it is necessary to change the value of the frequency or timing parameters. This can be done through the BIOS or through programs. Let us consider two more points.

Through the BIOS interface

There are many varieties of the BIOS, and the items referred to therein may be different. To change the frequency may need to click «Memory Frequency», «CPU Clock Ratio» or similar meaning. In general, we recommend that you choose a method of acceleration based on the model of your motherboard, finding its specifications and setup guides on the official website of the manufacturer.

To set the timings will have to look at BIOS something like the DRAM Timing Selectable or DRAM Configuration. Usually these items are set to Auto mode, so you need to switch them to the Manual. This unlocks the timings available for editing. 4, the main of which most affect the performance, typically in a separate unit. Now they can be changed, rebooting each time, and check the system for stability.

Through the program for overclocking DDR3 memory

In fact, the programs that would be really able to fully disperse the RAM from under Windows, - a rarity. For the most part, this is the utility for overclocking the system bus frequency. Can be identified unless MemSet program that is able to change the timings on the fly out of the operating system. However, it should first familiarize yourself with the list of supported systems it as work, it can not all.

Therefore, a universal means to disperse the entire spectrum of systems available on the market hard to find. We recommend that you use the software that comes with the motherboard, so how many of today's manufacturers are trying to simplify the interaction of its products users. This will allow optimized for a specific method of assembling the PC overclocking.

Performance monitoring program for DDR3 memory test

After each change the system settings, you must make sure that, as far as her job is stable. Check it as you can with the help of games and special utilities. Their are several. The simplest of them - MemTest. This small program checks the RAM read / write error. Its interface is so simple that even the special skills for its use is not required. Simply enter the desired amount of memory being tested, or leave all the available and click Start Testing. After check it informs the percentage error was found during testing.

A separate module to verify the stability of the system as a whole contains AIDA64 - analyze and track the status of the equipment and systems. In the settings you can specify which sections you want to check: RAM, processor or graphics card.

Nuances repair of DDR3 RAM

In fact, the maximum repair, which will be able to spend at home inexperienced user - is to wipe contacts on the card cloth with alcohol. In all other cases will have to seek the services of professionals or even change to a new module. Unstable operation of RAM is usually characterized by small braking system, frequent reboots groundless and "blue screens of death".

What is the cost of DDR3 memory - an overview of the modules in prices for 4, 8 and 16 GB

For the convenience of all the information we have issued in the form of a table, where the readers of our portal will be able to compare the features and prices.

If you have experience of working and installing RAM, you can share it in the comments.