DIMM's

DIMM's
The latest RAM type, SDRAM are made in 64 bit wide modules called DIMM's. They have a
168 pin edge connector. They fit only in the newer system boards. The 82430 VX and TX chip
sets can control SDRAM, as well as the LX and BX chip sets do.
Since the DIMM modules are 64 bits wide, you can install one module at a time. They are
available in 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 and 256 MB, with 8, 10, and 12 ns speed. There are usually
three DIMM sockets on a system board.
The advantage of SDRAM is increased speed. That allows you to increase system bus speed.
With 60 ns EDO-RAM, you can run at a maximum of 75 MHZ on the system bus, while SDRAM
speed can increase to at least 100 MHZ.
Some system boards have both SIMM and DIMM sockets. The idea is that you can choose
between re use EDO RAM in the SIMM sockets, or install SDRAM in the DIMM sockets. They
are not designed to mix RAM types although it works at some boards.

Above: a 64 MB DIMM-module holding 32 chips each of 16 Mbit (32 X 16 Mbit / 8 bit = 64 MB).
It is better to use DIMM's made of the the new 64 Mbit chips. A 64 MB module is this way made
of only 8 chips (8 X 64 Mbit / 8 bit = 64 MB).
An illustrated Guide to RAM.