What Is Rambus Memory RDRAM

Rambus memory RDRAM is a subtype of synchronous dynamic random access memory and it was created in the 1990s by the world-renowned IT company of that time Rambus Inc. The RDRAM was specially designed to provide high-bandwidth performance for computer applications that needed fast data transfer speeds, like the graphics processing in computer games, HD videos, networking, etc. At the time it was considered a marvel of engineering and was designed to replace the other types of memory, such as SDRAM in the market. However, that didn’t turn out to be the case as you will find out below.

How Does Rambus Memory RDRAM Work?

Rambus memory RDRAM typically uses a 16-bit bus to connect with the memory controller, but an interesting thing about it that makes it unique is that it transfers data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal, effectively doubling the data rate. This method is called double data rate (DDR). 

RDRAM also has a packet-based protocol that allows it to make multiple simultaneous transactions which in turn reduces latency. RDRAM modules are packaged as in-line memory modules, which are similar to DIMMs modules but have 184 or 232 pins.

History Of RDRAM And Some Issues With It

Rambus memory RDRAM was first introduced in 1999, and it was supported by Intel chipsets for its Pentium 4 processors. Initially, it performed very well and provided higher bandwidth than SDRAM and DDR SDRAM, reaching up to 1600 MB/s for PC-800 RDRAM and up to 4800 MB/s for PC-1200 RDRAM. 

However, not all was bright and after some time RDRAM started facing several challenges, like high cost, unbalanced power consumption, more heat generation, availability problems, and lastly compatibility issues. Moreover, RDRAM also became involved in fierce competition with DDR SDRAM, which gained popularity due to its lower cost and much better performance.

By 2003, it was no longer supported by new PC chipsets and was replaced by double data rate SDRAMs and later DDR2 SDRAM. RDRAM also failed to become a standard choice for graphics memory, as it also faced severe competition from GDDR SDRAMs and other new tech.  Later, RDRAM was succeeded by XDR DRAM, which offered higher bandwidth and lower power consumption than RDRAM.

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Should You Get A Rambus Memory RDRAM For Your PC?

If you are thinking of getting an RDRAM chip for your personal computer, then you should keep in mind that RDRAM devices are currently not utilized in most traditional computers because it is not compatible with the currently used tech of motherboards, that are made to support SDRAM. Plus, even if you decide to buy Rambus memory RDRAM for an old pc, it is usually not worth the cost. However, if you are a professional then you can buy it as it is still in use in some high-end GPUs and video game consoles.