Major manufacturers including MSI, ASRock and ASUS unveiled CAMM2 memory for desktop computers at the Taipei Computer Show in June, as well as dedicated Intel motherboards compatible with CAMM2 memory, marking a trend in the desktop computer technology.
MSI has published a video highlighting the main advantages of CAMM2 DDR5 memory, which offers faster speeds, lower latency and a more efficient design. One of the big advantages of CAMM2 memory is the use of one power management integrated circuit (PMIC) per module, compared to traditional SO-DIMMs where each module needs its own PMIC. This design reduces power consumption and reduces heat dissipation, eliminating the need for a heatsink. In addition, the CAMM2 memory layout feature does not interfere with CPU cooling. The architecture also supports dual-channel operation from a single memory card, potentially reducing overall system costs.
Despite the reduction in heat dissipation, cooling is still an important factor for CAMM2 memory. Some manufacturers have developed special cooling solutions, such as Bitspower’s custom water cooling head for CAMM2 models. Motherboard manufacturers have also introduced their own cooling solutions suitable for CAMM2 memory. For example, MSI’s Z790 Project ZERO PLUS cooler, developed in collaboration with DIY-APE, and ASUS’ ROG Maximus Z890 HERO BTF, which runs at 8000 MT/s while maintaining e temperature below 50 ° C under passive cooling conditions, are the main examples.
Another advantage of CAMM2 memory is the switchable connector. Unlike traditional SO-DIMM slots, which require factory repair if damaged, CAMM2 allows for easy replacement of the socket, which is compatible with a variety of motherboards and high – floors. CAMM2 desktop memory has a dual-channel design, allowing a single memory card to operate in dual-channel mode. However, due to the horizontal installation, additional cooling measures are required for the back of the model. The motherboard design has also been changed to accommodate CAMM2 memory. The layout is slightly wider and the 24-pin connector has been moved to the top of the motherboard, away from the DIMM slot. CAMM2 memory is currently in its early stages, making it relatively expensive and less available. Installation is a bit more complicated, like M.2 drives, which require screws to secure them. However, JEDEC and its partners are working on a tool-free assembly design to make installation easier in the future.
MSI showed DDR5-7200 CAMM2 memory on its Z790 PROJECT PLUS motherboard and expects CAMM2 memory based on the LPDDR6 standard to arrive by 2026.
