DESCRIPTION:
A SODIMM, or Small Outline Dual In-Line Memory Module, is a type of computer memory
module using integrated circuits. SODIMM's are a smaller alternative to a DIMM (typically
used in desktop format computers), being roughly half the size of regular DIMM's,
so are often used in systems which have space restrictions such as netbooks, laptops/notebooks,
small footprint PCs (such as those with a Mini-ITX motherboard), high-end office
peripherals, and networking hardware such as routers and other networking products.
SODIMM's have 72, 100, 144, 200 or 204 pins. The older 72 and 100 pin packages support
32-bit data transfer, while the 144, 200 and 204 pin packages support 64-bit data
transfer. This compares to regular DIMM's that have 168, 184, or 240 pins, all supporting
64-bit data transfer.
FORM FACTORS:
Most SODIMM's can be recognized at a glance by the distinctive notches used to "key"
them for different applications:
100-pin SODIMM's have two notches,
144-pin SODIMM's have a single notch near (but not at) the centre, and
200-pin SODIMM's have a single notch nearer to one side. The exact location of this
notch varies. (See my animation)
GENERAL CHARACTERISTICS:
SODIMM's are typically equal in power and voltage rating to DIMM's, and as memory
technology moves forward, both SODIMM's and DIMM's become available in equal speed
(clock speeds such as 400 MHz PC-3200, for example, and CAS latency such as 2.0,
2.5, and 3.0) and capacity (512MB, 1GB, 2GB etc.). DDR2 SODIMM memory modules commonly
have clock speeds from 200 MHz up to 800 MHz PC2-6400.
The latest 204-pin SODIMM's support DDR3 SDRAM, with specifications such as PC3-6400,
PC3-8500, PC3-10600, and PC3-12800.
