Samsung develops 1.25V green DDR3 modules for ultra low-power servers

SEOUL, KOREA: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd has developed double data rate-3 (DDR3) registered dual inline memory modules (RDIMMs) designed for use in low-power enterprise server systems at a 1.25 voltage.

Utilizing four gigabit (Gb) DDR3 components based on 30 nanometer (nm) class process technology, Samsung’s new DDR3 modules deliver greener memory solutions for servers than conventional 1.5 volts alternatives or the previous leading-edge 1.35V version, while providing higher performance.

“Our 1.25V RDIMM will add to an extremely robust memory portfolio for advanced enterprise server systems that are demanding higher energy efficiency from key components,” said Wanhoon Hong, executive VP, memory sales & marketing, Device Solutions, Samsung Electronics. “We are contributing to a greener IT environment through the introduction of more innovative memory designs, while enhancing shared value throughout the server segment.”

In case of a 1.25V 16GB RDIMM, the module consumes only 3.7 watts (W) per hour, while operating at a bandwidth of up to 1.333Mbps. This is an approximate 15 percent power savings compared to a 1.35V 16GB RDIMM using 30nm-class 4Gb DDR3 chips, (which has been the module with the lowest power consumption at the same density until now), and an approximate 60 percent savings compared to a 1.35V 16GB RDIMM using 40nm-class 2Gb DDR3 chips.

Samsung plans to begin mass producing the modules in densities of four, eight and 16 gigabytes (GBs), after they are qualified with OEMs. Starting next year, the 1.25V RDIMMs are expected to elicit a high degree of interest in data centers and enterprise server systems, where there is the most concern for reducing energy costs and improving efficiency.

Underscoring its strong emphasis on green technology, Samsung will hold the Asia Pacific Datacenter Leadership Council in Singapore on September 16th where it will share insight into the development of more sustainable IT solutions with CIOs and IT managers of leading Asian companies. The new 1.25V DDR3 RDIMMs will be first publicly discussed at the Forum.