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We already talked about Some features of Phenom processor memory controller. . But, the differences between the memory controller in Phenom and K8 generation processor is not limited to the noted in previous news data . One of the important features of Phenom memory controller is its ability to work independently from the processor frequency . Additionally, the memory controller has its own power channel . To Realize all these advantages user have to install Phenom processor in Socket AM2+ motherboard . If the Phenom is placed in Socket AM2, the memory operation mode will be limited to DDR2-800 although Phenom memory controller supports DDR2-1066.
The processor memory frequency in K8 generation is determined as a result of dividing the processor frequency by certain number. As result, the memory frequency was inconvenient for example, DDR2-733 instead of DDR2-800, and this has affected the memory system performance. With Brisbane processors and their 0.5 x step multiplier situation has only worsened. Here is An example in the following table:
|
processor frequency , MHz |
| 2000 |
2100 |
2200 |
2300 |
2400 |
2500 |
2600 |
2800 |
|
DDR2
800 |
800 |
700 |
733 |
767 |
800 |
714 |
743 |
800 |
|
DDR2
667 |
667 |
600 |
629 |
657 |
600 |
625 |
650 |
622 |
|
DDR2
533 |
500 |
525 |
489 |
511 |
533 |
500 |
520 |
509 |
To Tune the Phenom architecture , AMD company decided to put an end to this unpleasant limitation. Now the memory frequency is set regardless of processor Clock frequency . So Memory modules in system with Socket AM2 + are working at their default frequencies and not under-clocked . The maximum supported memory frequency is independent of the default processor frequency .
Of course in reality all is more complicated , the simple of Phenom and early motherboard based on AMD 790FX chipset shows some memory frequency problem again. .... Related Products :
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