Reap the Performance Benefits of SO-DIMM PC3-12800 (DDR3-1600) Memory
In many instances, base models of laptops and compact computers have the least amount of RAM available for that particular series. While performance may be snappy when you first get the computer out of the box, you may see that multitasking capabilities dip as your processing needs grow. To remedy slowdowns brought by performance bottlenecking or simply a faulty module, you can easily replace them through a simple swap procedure.
What Is SO-DIMM PC3-12800 (DDR3-1600) RAM?
- SODIMM: This is the standard used in compact computers like laptops and all-in-one desktop PCs. They are designed in such a way that when installed, they maintain the slimness of the device by lying flat on the motherboard. The modules are anchored on the 204-pin slot on the memory banks, which secure the sticks in place with side clips that click on securely. Unlike desktop DIMMs, these modules and taller in height but shorter in length in comparison. Despite the apparent differences in physical design, their performance generally matches each other.
- PC3-12800 DDR3-1600: These two names are used in different cases but all describe one type of unbuffered RAM stick. PC3-12800 is the industry name; PC3 indicates the data rate standard used, in this case, it's DDR3, while 12800 is the module name. DDR3-1600 is the "friendly name" and lays out in plain terms the basic specifications of the RAM. DDR3 is the data rate standard, while 1600 MHz is the frequency that the sticks handle. This MHz measurement already takes into account the double data rate, so it's basically 1600 MHz divided by two.
- Capacity: These are normally available in at least 2 GB DDR3 options with maximum capacities of around 16 GB per DDR3 stick. Unbuffered consumer-grade memory can be found in 2 GB, 4 GB, 8 GB, and 16 GB variants. Depending on the version of your operating system, it can only use 4 GB of total RAM when the system is 32-bit. On the other hand, 64-bit systems can use more than 4 GB of memory and the only limiting factor would be the number of SODIMM slots in the memory banks.
What Are the Benefits of Installing More RAM?
- Multitasking: Both desktop and laptops benefit in terms of multitasking ability when a memory upgrade is performed. This allows the system to store a larger amount of temporary memory while also having faster transfer speeds with sticks of larger MHz specifications.
- More Compatibility: Many programs require a set amount of memory. Graphically intensive applications with complex tools, as well as intricate programs, require more memory.
- Better Gaming: Gaming performance also improves with a memory upgrade. You can switch in and out from the game window faster and the system will handle many browser tables more easily while a game is running in the background.