What Is Dual-Channel Memory?

While the term “dual channel memory” is used quite often in the marketing world, to others, this term may seem like another complex piece of tech jargon. For those unfamiliar with it, dual channel memory is a type of multi-channel RAM chipset that is equipped with two dedicated channels connecting to the motherboard. This double-channel connection allows for higher data transfer speeds by increasing the amount of communication channels between the memory and the memory controller.

A computer with ample memory runs quickly and efficiently, and RAM, or random-access memory, is a critical element that determines the performance of a computer. It is worth noting that the type of RAM you use matters as there are many types, including RRAM, GDDR6, DRAM, SRAM, or NVRAM. This is because, as previously mentioned, the number of channels has an impact on its data transfer speeds and overall performance.

The memory controller on the central processing unit (CPU) sends data to and retrieves it from memory through a data bus. Some memory controllers offer more than one channel for the module to communicate with the CPU, and as a result, this will boost data exchange rates. For example, if a computer has one stick of RAM, then it can only run one channel of communication between the memory and the CPU.

Keep in mind that computer memory controllers may be categorized by the number of communication channels they support. For instance, a single-channel memory has one channel, while a triple-channel has three, and the maximum number of channels RAM can have is eight. This does not mean that it can be referred to as multi-channel memory which is a common mistake many make.

Dual channel memory has only two high-throughput data channels and a DDR, DDR2, DDR3, or DDR4 chipset on the motherboard. The two channels read and write the memory on remote channels. Double Data Rate (DDR) refers to the rate at which the data can be written to memory. 

Originally, dual-channel design combined two separate 64-bit buses into a single 128-bit bus. Often called the ganged model, this architecture increased performance but did not provide enough boost. Today’s dual-channel model is the “unganged” version of the original design. Over time and with small modifications, manufacturers found that a CPU works better when two independent buses are utilized for data transfer.

Currently, the dual-channel model serves as an ingenious innovation that operates by measuring the system clock’s highs and lows to double the computer’s speed and capacity. Furthermore, with few expectations, dual-based RAM can run in single-channel or dual-channel modes. As we have noted before, dual-channel architecture only functions when two or more memory modules are inserted in the right slots on a dual-channel-capable motherboard.

Memory modules can be DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4, or DDR5, but must have the same configuration to work. As soon as a matching pair of modules is inserted into each channel’s banks, the dual-channel mode is automatically enabled on supported motherboards and processors. If the memory modules are of varying configurations, a dual-channel may still be enabled, but it may not perform at optimum capacity.

DDR5 RAM sticks, in particular, have two memory channels, and according to memory chip manufacturer Micron, are capable of turning an 8-channel system into a 16-channel system. This means that two DDR5 memory modules can double the dual-channel architecture to quadruple their speed capacity. With such capacities, there are bound to be more technological improvements for memory modules in the future.

If you find yourself in need of any form of RAM, DRAM, SRAM, or any other memory storage devices, rely on Expedited Quoting. Expedited Quoting is a leading distributor of electronic components, all of which have been sourced from trusted global manufacturers. Get started with a competitive quote on any featured item in our catalogs and see why customers continuously depend on us for all of their operational needs!


Share


Recent Twitter Posts

Semiconductor's Certifications and Memberships
Thanks for Visiting!

Don’t forget, If You Need a Quote for A Part, You Can Fill Out the Request for Quote form On the Homepage of This Website and Receive a Response Within Fifteen Minutes!

Request for Quote

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.