Intel 285K has a Secret Quad Channel RAM Controller

Summary

In this video, the presenter discusses advancements in DDR5 memory technology, focusing on CU DIMM kits that enhance performance stability at high speeds. With predictions of memory frequencies exceeding 9000 MT/s, the new Arrow L memory controller architecture improves access to memory slots. Additionally, the video highlights innovative cooling solutions, including offset mounting kits that align coolers with CPU hotspots. However, rising motherboard prices raise concerns about affordability in the industry, exemplified by significant increases in Asus motherboards. The presenter concludes by teasing upcoming performance tests for Alder Lake architecture.

Takeaways

• 🧠 Memory kits: Three memory kits were introduced, featuring Kingston Fury, Corsair, and G.Skill, all utilizing CU DIM technology for DDR5.
• ⚡ Supported speeds: Standard DDR5 runs at a maximum speed of 5600 MT/s, while the new CU DIMs officially support up to 6400 MT/s.
• 🔧 CU DIMs explained: CU DIMs include a clock driver component that enhances stability for high memory frequencies, making them essential for speeds above 8,000 MT/s.
• 🔍 Channel architecture: The Arrow L memory controller utilizes a 4x32-bit access model, allowing simultaneous access to different memory portions, which is new in desktop technology.
• 🌀 Gear modes: Different gear modes affect memory controller performance, with Gear 2 potentially outperforming Gear 4 at high frequencies depending on specific configurations.
• ❄️ Cooling advancements: New offset mounting kits for AIO coolers aim to improve thermal performance by shifting coolers closer to CPU hotspots.
• 💸 Rising motherboard prices: Notable increases in motherboard prices were highlighted, with some models, like the Asus Hero, doubling in price over four years.
• 📈 Market implications: The drastic rise in motherboard prices raises concerns about market accessibility and potential lower sales due to affordability issues.
• 🛠️ Feature comparisons: Comparisons were made between Asus motherboards and MSI offerings, emphasizing feature sets and pricing disparities.
• 🔜 Future testing: The video concludes with a promise of upcoming testing for the Alder Lake architecture, aiming to validate performance claims.

Q & A

What are CU DIMMs, and how do they differ from traditional UDIMMs?

CU DIMMs (Clocked Unbuffered Dual Inline Memory Modules) include an additional clock driver component, which improves stability at higher frequencies compared to traditional UDIMMs, allowing for officially supported speeds of up to 6400 MT/s.

What is the maximum supported memory speed for traditional DDR5 UDIMMs?

The maximum supported speed for traditional DDR5 UDIMMs is 5600 MT/s.

Why are higher memory frequencies expected with the new Alder Lake CPUs?

Higher memory frequencies are anticipated due to the architecture of Alder Lake, which may enable speeds exceeding 9000 MT/s with CU DIMMs or CK DIMMs due to their clock driver functionality.

What is the Gear 2 and Gear 4 mode in relation to memory performance?

Gear 2 mode typically has a memory controller frequency that is half the memory frequency, allowing for stable performance, while Gear 4 mode reduces the memory controller frequency further, which could impact performance at higher speeds.

What changes were mentioned regarding memory access in the new Alder Lake architecture?

The new architecture uses a 4 * 32-bit memory controller instead of the previous 2 * 64-bit, allowing individual access to different portions of memory slots for improved efficiency during read/write operations.

How do the new offset mounting kits for coolers improve thermal performance?

Offset mounting kits allow cooler placement to be shifted closer to the CPU hotspot, potentially lowering temperatures by a few degrees Celsius by ensuring better contact with the heat-generating components.

What concerns were raised about the pricing of new motherboards?

The host expressed concern over the drastic price increases of motherboards, such as the ASUS Hero jumping from €400 to €800, questioning the value provided relative to the features offered.

What features were highlighted in the MSI and ASUS motherboards?

The MSI C890 motherboard offers features like 10G Ethernet and Wi-Fi 7, while the ASUS Hero has dual Ethernet but lacks some of the more advanced features of the MSI board, despite being more expensive.

What implications might the high prices of motherboards have on the tech industry?

The high prices may limit consumer accessibility and lead to lower sales, exacerbating existing difficulties in the tech market and potentially stalling innovation.

What future content can viewers expect related to Alder Lake performance?

The next video will focus on real-world performance testing of Alder Lake hardware, moving beyond theoretical discussions and showcasing actual benchmarks.