Memory standard addendum encourages lower power consumption

Continuing the evolution of ddr3 as the dominant dram standard today, Jedec says that ddr3L will enable a 'significant reduction' in power consumption for a range of products that use memory. This covers laptops, desktops, servers, networking systems and an array of consumer electronics products. The updated version of JESD79-3, including the ddr3L addendum, is available for free download at http://www.jedec.org. Devices adhering to the new standard will operate from a single 1.35V power supply voltage compared to 1.5V in existing devices. Under the new standard, ddr3L memory devices will be functionally compatible to ddr3 memory devices, but not all devices will be interoperable at both voltage ranges. According to Jedec, the standard defines the operating characteristics for ddr3L memory devices, with the devices offering a reduction in power consumption of 15% or more as compared to ddr3 (and 40% as compared to ddr2), when operating at the same performance and load capacity. This significant reduction in power consumption, especially in memory-intensive systems, could have dramatic benefits in areas such as power supply demand, system cooling requirements and potential packaging density. Robert Feurle, vice president DRAM Marketing, Micron Technology, said: "The Jedec ddr3L standard defines an energy efficient solution that benefits the environment, manufacturers and end users. Device power consumption is a critical focus for our customers, and Micron is pleased to support the development of the ddr3l standard as a means to enable a reduction in power usage without impacting performance." Already available in limited supply with some manufacturers, Jedec forecasts that 1.35V devices will be widely available from suppliers, who have been working within the company to ensure ddr3l compatible devices may be procured from multiple sources. It added that rapid introduction will be facilitated by the fact that the fundamental specifications have not changed, and many systems will require only minor modifications in order to adhere to the new standard.