Are you certain the items you purchased are genuine? The attached photos can help verify that.
Are you certain the items you purchased are genuine? The attached photos can help verify that.
In short, I purchased some Samsung DDR3 RAM from AliExpress for the first time. I needed the same voltage and specifications as my existing setup, so I was confident there would be no problems. Upon receiving the kit, I tested it independently—passed all checks with strong performance. When installing it with another module, I adjusted settings manually to 1.5V and managed to get it working smoothly. However, when trying to combine both kits, initial boot issues arose, but after some configuration changes, everything stabilized. While I noticed differences in serial numbers and SEC values between the modules, the overall functionality remained consistent. I also found similar listings online with generic parts, raising doubts about authenticity. I still have time to return the items if needed, though I’m concerned about the possibility of counterfeit products.
The second row on the chips indicates the Samsung part number. K4B 2 G0846 - 2 gbit chip – you require four of these to achieve one GB of RAM. K4B 4 G0446 - 4 gbit chip – you need two of these for the same amount. Since each RAM stick holds 64 bits, and these chips are 8-bit wide, you must use multiples of 8 chips per stick; some sticks contain eight, others sixteen. The last letter (C, B, D) refers to the die type: B-die, C-die, D-die... representing successive generations or manufacturing variations. There are adjustments between processes—some designs compress memory cells for cost savings, while others prioritize lower power use. These differences can lead to subtle timing variations. The changing values might stem from factors like the production week (e.g., 2013 or 2014) or even a week within the year. I suspect these aren’t counterfeit parts. In the worst case, some sticks might have defective chips, which are removed and replaced with good ones from other batches, potentially mixing years (like 2013 and 2014). But if the dies share the same generation, performance should remain stable. Your selection shows consistency: D-die sticks, B-die high-end ones... different processes, sizes, and die dimensions. Technically, K4D2G0846D is DDR3L, supporting 1.35V and labeled PC3L on the label. The B-die version isn’t DDR3L—it’s rated for 1.5V. If marketed as DDR3L, that would be misleading. It’s possible a warehouse worker mistakenly selected the wrong type, assuming uniformity. The B-die chips might function at 1.35V but likely not at higher speeds like 1600MHz; they could reach around 1066MHz or slightly higher. Combined with regular sticks, everything should work at 1.5V. Refer to datasheets: D-die file – K4B2G0846D.pdf and B-die file – K4B4G0846B.pdf
It's just a routine habit. As I mentioned earlier, the serial numbers of the memory kit I purchased from AliExpress all match. That hasn't happened before. The information in this article is really useful. Thanks! I know my original memory is DDR3L. This DDR3L set was very popular among overclockers back then. I was trying to acquire more of it, but it frequently sold out. Eventually I stopped searching because 8GB was sufficient for me. Now in 2021 it's almost impossible to locate, which is what I expected. AliExpress sold me the correct product. They didn't carry DDR3 @ 1.35v, so I bought this kit mainly based on the brand. So far my system has worked well with both kits running at 1.5v. The only drawback is they're operating at the specifications of the 1.5v kit, which is normal, and the command rate is 2T. The main reason I'm doubting their authenticity is the part number and serial code. As I mentioned earlier, I saw some screenshots on AliExpress showing another buyer with the exact same serial number as mine.