Yes, the upgradeable memory is completed.
Yes, the upgradeable memory is completed.
Apple’s M* chips and the AMD Strix Halo both highlight the importance of bringing memory nearer to the CPU. This trend leads manufacturers to integrate these components onto boards with fixed, high-density memory. Are there any efforts underway to create removable RAM solutions or custom motherboard layouts that allow memory modules to sit extremely close to the CPU with exact timing requirements? I’m thinking about memory upgrades that fit in sizes similar to micro SD cards, possibly even 2D connectors akin to CPU sockets. If such standards could be established, would they truly accelerate progress—adding another generation or more? And would the industry shift toward System-on-Chips (SOCs) due to the need for ultra-fast, tightly packed components?
It depends on the intended purpose of the system. The benefit of on-package RAM includes a reduced size, which is useful in compact designs but irrelevant if space isn't an issue. It might also lead to slightly reduced power usage, as seen in some designs like Lunar Lake. Regarding performance, the main advantage is a broader bus width. Traditional desktops usually use 128-bit channels, but modern systems often rely on wider buses for better efficiency. Strix Halo offers a 256-bit width, aligning with Intel's quad-channel technology. However, whether this provides a real boost depends on the specific setup and how it's implemented. The GPU part still plays a crucial role, as it must fully utilize the available bandwidth. AMD's approach with Halo is similar to certain chiplet-based systems, which can limit performance unless the GPU itself is capable. Apple's M chips push this further with extremely high bandwidth models, but they come at a cost. The main challenge remains the need for substantial silicon resources, making it less attractive unless performance gains justify the expense. The industry could benefit from a return to more affordable, HEDT-like solutions, similar to past trends. Alternatives like CAMM2 offer comparable performance with dual-channel configurations and support for faster memory types.