Are you puzzled by why your video editing apps still stutter despite having a seemingly sufficient 16GB of RAM but when you’re gaming, you have no issues at all? Ever wondered how your multi-tasking needs could be met without splurging on high-capacity memory? Say hello to non-binary memory – a simple solution that gives you more options to choose from when you’re looking to build your next PC. In this article, we’re going to demystify the concept of non-binary memory, and how these new RAM modules from Kingston can help you build a PC with the right amount of memory without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re a gamer, a creative professional juggling multiple applications, or just someone curious about the latest advancements in PC technology, understanding non-binary memory would certainly help you come up with more optimised configurations when building your next PC. It’s not exactly a game-changer in the world of memory technology but it does give you more options as a buyer. So, what exactly is non-binary memory, and how does it differ from the conventional RAM we are accustomed to? We will try to answer these questions and more here.
What is non-binary memory?
The non-binary memory works the same as the standard RAM that we are familiar with, but its manufacturing process allows half-steps in density. In the past, the amount of data that DRAM chips could store would double (for example, from 8 Gb to 16 Gb). Remember, we’re talking about the chips that make up RAM modules, not the modules themselves, hence, the Gb instead of GB. And then if you wanted more, you would again, get double (for example, from 16 Gb to 32 Gb).
A typical RAM module would have about 8-16 of these chips. So you end up with 16 Gb x8 = 16 GB (each 16 Gb chip provides 2 GB of storage). And if you wanted more memory, then you’d have to use a higher-density chip which, in this case, would be 32 Gb. So each module with 8 such chips would become 32 GB!
So if your needs were met with just, let’s say, 24 GB of memory then you’d end up spending more and getting a 32 GB module because there is no choice. With non-binary DDR5 memory, you don’t have to double again, there’s a middle step! Instead of taking a 2x leap from 16 Gb to 32 Gb, we now have 24 Gb DRAM chips. And therefore, we have 24 GB modules!
Manufacturers aim to use the same JEDEC PCB design for memory modules to ensure widespread compatibility. To achieve this, they consistently enhance the design and reduce the silicon wafer process size, to fit more memory cells within the same chip footprint as the previous generation (an increasingly challenging process).
A standard 16 GB DDR5 RAM stick for instance combines eight 16 Gb (or 2GB) modules. However using advanced manufacturing processes and leveraging DDR5 advantages like the new signalling protocol and more efficient architecture, manufacturers can package denser 24 Gb (or 3GB) modules in the same stick, resulting in 24 GB DDR5 DIMM. The same 24 Gb DRAM chips also enable 48 GB and 96 GB DDR5 DIMMs which are used for memory-intensive applications on servers.
Such intermediary memories are called non-binary memories. They operate on the same principles as standard DDR5 RAM but consumers get more flexibility while upgrading their setup and several other advantages!
Can you mix 24 Gb-based memory with 16 Gb?
Yes, you can but it isn’t recommended. Mixing RAM modules featuring 24 Gb chips with other modules that use 16 Gb chips would disable channel architecture optimisation and your RAM modules will operate at half the potential bandwidth. And if you have overclocked memory such as the Kingston FURY, then mixing is not supported at all.
What are the advantages of non-binary DDR5 memory?
These middle steps are important because they help make things work better without making them a lot more expensive or consuming excessive power.
This is especially crucial for big data centres and cloud computing services that employ an extensive amount of RAM. With the increasing use of AI, complex applications, virtual machines, and more, computing workloads increasingly demand high RAM capacities.
Striking the right balance between boosting performance and maintaining minimal costs is a perpetual goal for such data centres and cloud computing services. These non-binary RAM modules can play a significant role in achieving that delicate balance.
System engineers managing these complex operations also have more flexibility in assigning a specific amount of memory to specific applications. Besides, when there is a need to upgrade the infrastructure, doubling RAM capacities (32 GB to 64 GB to 128 GB) can be prohibitively expensive. Whereas, opting for more moderate increments (32 GB to 48 GB to 64 GB to 96 to 128), provides the option for a more gradual rise in costs.
Not only for enterprise users but also for individual users and gamers, non-binary memory can help cut costs. For example, if you require more than 16 GB of DDR5 for gaming, opting for a single 24 GB DDR5 RAM stick instead of two standard 16 GB DIMMs allows you to save money.
Elevate Your Performance with Kingston Fury!
Kingston FURY brand boasts an illustrious legacy as the go-to memory hardware for gamers, backed by Kingston’s three decades of engineering prowess. For gamers, Kingston FURY provides optimal storage and memory configurations, promising superior performance to meet the demands of the latest games and intensive applications.
Kingston Fury RAM sticks offer an automatic overclocking feature using Intel XMP classifications, creating a hassle-free way for gamers and PC enthusiasts to effortlessly enhance their system performance. It’s like having an automatic turbo boost for your gaming and computing setup!
Kingston FURY lineup also includes non-binary RAM options in the Renegade DDR5 and Renegade DDR5 RGB series that use 24 Gbit density chips instead of the traditional 16 Gbit density chips. The memory is available in single-module capacities of up to 48 GB and dual-channel kits with capacities of up to 96 GB.
Kingston FURY Renegade DDR5 memory is designed for extreme performance on next-gen DDR5 platforms, offering ultra-fast memory speeds of up to 8000 MT/s. It is a fast and reliable memory module that is easy to overclock. It is compatible with the latest motherboards and processors, and it uses new DDR5 technologies like on-die ECC, onboard PMIC, and two independent 32-bit subchannels to improve performance and efficiency.
Intel XMP 3.0 Certified technology streamlines the overclocking process by providing pre-optimised factory settings for timings, speeds, and voltages. The Kingston FURY Renegade DDR5 is equipped with a programmable PMIC for XMP 3.0, enabling the creation of up to two personalized profiles with unique timings, speeds, and voltages. These profiles can be directly saved to the DIMM for convenient customization.
The sleek design includes newly designed aluminium heat spreaders in black and silver or white and silver, catering to the aesthetics of modern PC builds.
A significant step forward
Non-binary DDR5 memory such as Kingston FURY’s Renegade DDR5 series, represents a notable step forward in memory technology. The introduction of an intermediary option with 24 Gb density in DDR5 DIMMs provides users with more flexibility and cost-effectiveness. They also align with the increasing demands of data centres, cloud computing, and individual users.
The advantages of non-binary DDR5 memory include improved performance, power efficiency, and incremental scalability, which make it a great option for balancing functionality and cost. Kingston FURY Renegade DDR5 and Kingston FURY Renegade DDR5 RGB series offer a reliable option for gamers and enthusiasts seeking cutting-edge performance.
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