Micron Unveils Ultra-Fast DDR5 Memory Modules for AI PCs, Doubling Speed of DDR4

Crucial's new ultra-fast clock driver DDR5 memory modules bring 2x speed boost for AI PCs, but they aren't cheap

Micron Technology has introduced its first-ever Crucial DDR5 CUDIMM (clocked unbuffered dual inline memory modules) and CSODIMM (clocked small outline dual memory modules) solutions, delivering speeds up to 6,400 MT/s - twice the maximum standard DDR4 speeds (3,200 MT/s). These new clock driver-based memory modules are designed for AI PCs and high-performance systems, promising faster downloads, improved refresh rates, and speed stability. Validated by Intel for use with its new Core Ultra processors (Series 2), these modules can reach capacities of up to 64GB and aim to meet the increasing demand for high memory performance in AI workloads. These new memory modules integrate a clock driver directly on the RAM itself, solving electrical challenges typically managed by relying on the CPU clock. Micron says this engineering innovation makes DDR5 memory faster and more stable, particularly when combining high bandwidth with larger capacities. The firm claims its new RAM runs 15% faster than traditional non-clock-driver-based DDR5 running at maximum bandwidth of 5,600 MT/s. "As AI takes flight, a memory paradigm shift is needed to keep pace with unprecedented system performance requirements," said Dinesh Bahal, corporate vice president and general manager of Micron's Commercial Products Group. "Micron is shipping the industry's first JEDEC-standard, commercially available DDR5 CUDIMM and CSODIMM solutions to power fast, out-of-the-box speeds for AI PCs and high-end workstations." Micron and Intel have collaborated to validate these DDR5 modules, allowing top PC manufacturers to incorporate this technology into their upcoming systems. Dimitrios Ziakas, Intel's vice president of memory and I/O technologies, said, "The powerful combination of Intel Core Ultra desktop processors and Micron's latest clock driver-powered CUDIMM/CSODIMMs with up to massive 64GB capacities will be critical to helping propel the next wave of data-rich AI PCs to 6,400 MT/s speeds." The 16GB CUDIMM and CSODIMM 6400 modules are now available to buy, both priced at $84.99. For comparison, the Crucial Pro 16GB DDR5-5600 UDIMM retails at $48.99, meaning you'll pay 73.48% more for the 15% speed boost the new RAM offers. The 64GB clocked RAM is expected to be available by mid-2025, with pricing yet to be announced.

Crucial unveils DDR5 CUDIMM memory: up to 6400MT/s, with 64GB modules dropping in 2025

Micron and its sub-brand Crucial have just unveiled their new DDR5 CUDIMM memory modules, featuring an on-module Clock Driver (CKD) which improves the speed and stability of the modules, packing higher rbandwidth than regular DDR5 kits, and more. This style of memory is also known as unbuffered dual inline memory, which was released alongside clocked small outline inline memory modules (CSODIMM) that were made for laptops. But now, Crucial has announced its next-gen DDR5 CUDIMM and CSODIMM memory modules are shipping in volume. We can expect far higher speeds than what Micron and Crucial have announced today, with CUDIMM memory modules expected to skyrocket towards 8000MT/s or even 9000MT/s with some companies already teasing that they're working on DDR5 CUDIMM memory modules with a blistering 10,000MT/s that are launching in 2025. Crucial isn't hitting those speeds right now, with their first DDR5 CUDIMM memory modules offered at 6400MT/s speeds, with timings of 52-52-52-103. The new DDR5 CUDIMM memory modules have already been validated by Intel for its new Core Ultra 200S "Arrow Lake" desktop CPUs, with Crucial also teasing that 64GB kits have been validated, but not available just yet (most of these new kits feature 24GB per module). As for pricing, you're looking at 1 x 16GB DDR5-6400 memory module costing $84.99, while a 32GB kit (2 x 16GB) sticks of DDR5-6400 will cost you $169.99. Crucial explains: "Introducing Crucial DDR5 CUDIMM and CSODIMM Memory, designed to improve your computing experience with JEDEC speeds up to 6,400 MT/s-twice as fast as DDR4. This new form factor features a clock driver directly on the module to support speed stability, faster downloads, and better refresh rates". Dinesh Bahal, corporate vice president and general manager of Micron's Commercial Products Group, said: "As AI takes flight, a memory paradigm shift is needed to keep pace with unprecedented system performance requirements. Micron is shipping the industry's first JEDEC-standard, commercially available DDR5 CUDIMM and CSODIMM solutions to power fast, out-of-the-box speeds for AI PCs and high-end workstations. With this new category, we are arming the ecosystem with next-generation memory solutions to future-proof today's devices for tomorrow's AI workloads".

Micron launches faster DDR5 memory modules for AI computing By Investing.com

BOISE, Idaho - Micron Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ:MU) has unveiled its latest memory solutions, the Crucial DDR5 clocked unbuffered dual inline memory modules (CUDIMM) and clocked small outline dual memory modules (CSODIMM), which are now shipping in volume. These new offerings are designed to meet the demands of artificial intelligence (AI) computing, with speeds reaching up to 6,400 megatransfers per second (MT/s), doubling the pace of DDR4 and outperforming standard DDR5 by 15%. The products are the first commercially available JEDEC-standard DDR5 CUDIMM and CSODIMM solutions since the specification was standardized earlier this year. Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) has validated these new memory modules for use with its Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2), launched on October 10, supporting up to 64 gigabytes (GB) capacities. Micron's introduction of CUDIMM and CSODIMM memory modules with an integrated clock driver aims to address stability and performance issues, providing a solution for high-bandwidth and large-capacity requirements. This innovation is expected to benefit AI PCs and high-end workstations by offering system capacities up to 256GB. The new memory modules from Micron are set to enhance out-of-the-box performance for data-intensive applications. They will be available in 16GB capacities through Crucial's website, with a limited lifetime warranty. The 64GB options are expected to become available for purchase through the channel in the first half of 2025. The release of these DDR5 memory modules by Micron signifies a step forward in the evolution of memory technology, catering to the growing needs of AI and other compute-intensive workloads. This news is based on a press release statement from Micron Technology, Inc. In other recent news, Micron Technology has been making significant strides in its financial performance, primarily driven by robust earnings and revenue growth. Analysts from BofA Securities, Cantor Fitzgerald, and Bernstein, among others, have maintained positive outlooks on Micron, emphasizing the company's strategic positioning and potential for growth driven by its differentiated AI computing and enterprise storage products. Micron's high-bandwidth memory (HBM) yield gains have been noted as a positive development, contributing to improved gross margins in the fourth quarter. Moreover, Micron's data center SSD business now accounts for 40% of its NAND sales, indicating a shift towards higher-value data center products. The company's progress with HBM is on track, and Micron expects to start production of HBM3E 12hi in early 2025, with a higher ramp in the second half. These developments are part of recent shifts in Micron's strategy towards higher-value solutions, expected to generate substantial revenues in fiscal year 2025. In addition to these developments, KeyBanc Capital Markets maintained its Overweight rating and $145.00 price target for Micron Technology. The firm anticipates a sustained pricing recovery for both NAND and DRAM in 2024, underpinned by the industry's production discipline and a shift towards high-value products such as High Bandwidth (NASDAQ:BAND) Memory (HBM) and DDR5. These are recent developments that provide a snapshot of Micron's current financial performance and market outlook. Micron Technology's latest product launch aligns with its strong market position and growth prospects. According to InvestingPro data, Micron's revenue growth has been impressive, with a 93.27% increase in the most recent quarter. This surge in revenue reflects the company's ability to capitalize on the growing demand for advanced memory solutions, particularly in AI applications. InvestingPro Tips highlight that Micron is a "prominent player in the Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment industry," which is evident from its innovative DDR5 memory modules. The company's focus on high-performance products for AI computing could contribute to analysts' expectations of sales growth in the current year. Despite a high P/E ratio of 153.69, which might suggest an expensive valuation, Micron's strong revenue growth and market position in a critical tech sector could justify investor optimism. The company's ability to deliver cutting-edge products like the CUDIMM and CSODIMM modules may support its future earnings potential. For investors seeking more comprehensive analysis, InvestingPro offers 16 additional tips for Micron Technology, providing deeper insights into the company's financial health and market performance.