How
to identify the size of RAM modules?
It
is possible to identify the chips by part number. You have to
identify the size of each the chips on a module, and then multiply
the size by the number of chips on the module to determine its
memory capacity. Different
RAM manufacturers have developed their own methods of identification,
so it is has become difficult to identify the chips without looking
up the exact part number on a website that provides the information.
Unless
they have been remarked by unscrupulous dealers that are selling
substandard modules not passed for use in a computer as computer-quality,
all of the chips on a particular module will have the manufacturer's
name (or logo), and a part number printed on them.
For example, a 30-pin SIMM module with nine chips on the module,
could have the part number - KM41C4000AJ-8. Drop the AJ-8
(the first letter is usually the quality - A, B, C, etc.),
then use KM41C4000 to conduct a Google
search. You should be provided with links to many sites that provide
information about part numbers. One of them is http://www.memoryusa.com/guide.html.
The
KM indicates parts made by Samsung. The 41
indicates that it is a 1Mbit x 4 part. This means that the chip
holds 4Mbits. Eight of the nine chips hold memory, so this is
a 8 x 4Mbit, or 32Mbit module. There are eight bits to a byte,
therefore this is an 4MB module. The ninth chip is there to add
parity. This was used as a means of checking for memory errors
that is no longer used.
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Use the Memory Selector to find compatible DDR or DDR2 Memory Upgrades, or the all new system scanner tool to scan your system to find exact matching DDR RAM. If you need more help use the Live Chat Support