I recently upgraded my PC with some new RAM and I'm a bit confused about the speed readings. I ordered 4x8GB PC3-12800U DDR3-1600 UDIM 2Rx8 DIM 1600MHz from Amazon. However, when I check the speed using Speccy, it shows only 798MHz. I understand it's Dual Channel DDR3, so does that mean each channel runs at 798MHz, effectively totaling 1600 when combined?
3 Answers
So, DDR means 'Double Data Rate', which is why you're seeing the 1600 MHz figure. It's actually the number of megatransfers per second, not the real clock speed. The true speed you're seeing, around 798MHz, is normal because DDR RAM transfers data twice each clock cycle. So, you're all good!
Just to note, it’s technically 'Double' not 'Dual', but yeah, same idea!
To clarify a bit, DDR stands for 'Dual Data Rate', and it's important to know that the speeds listed are in megatransfers per second (MT/s). So yes, your RAM is working as intended!
You're correct in your understanding! You bought 1600 MT/s RAM—not 1600 MHz, which is a common mix-up. DDR RAM works by transferring data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal, effectively doubling the data transfer rate. So 800MHz DDR3 indeed equals 1600 MT/s!
I thought it was just a marketing thing; thanks for the insight!
Got it, that makes sense! Thanks for clarifying!