Elpida Memory, Inc., Japan's leading global supplier of Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), today announced it had begun sample shipments of its new 32-gigabyte Load Reduced Dual In-Line Memory Module (LRDIMM), the DRAM industry's highest density memory module. The LRDIMM consists of 72 advanced 40nm process 4-gigabit DDR3 SDRAMs in a Double Density Package (DDP).

LRDIMM is a new standard for server memory modules that reduces I/O bus capacity by buffering the I/O bus line with the memory buffer (MB) to simultaneously enable higher system density and faster speed. JEDEC, a standardization body for the semiconductor industry, is studying the adoption of LRDIMM standards. Elpida is actively engaged in promoting its own standard.

Conventional Registered DIMM (RDIMM) in a two-way server system only allows a maximum of 16 DIMM whereas LRDIMM allows up to 24 DIMM in the same system. According to Elpida, the use of 24 of its 32-gigabyte LRDIMM represents a next-generation 768-gigabyte capacity platform, or 1.5 times that of a system equipped with RDIMM.

Also, with a maximum a speed of 1600Mbps, which is 20% faster than the highest RDIMM speed of 1333Mbps, Elpida's LRDIMM is capable of meeting demand for higher densities and faster speeds in next-generation servers and data centers.

LRDIMM features:

• At 32-gigabyte the industry's highest density memory module
• A maximum operating speed of 1600 MHz (also supports 1333 MHz)
• 1.35V/1.5V supply voltage
• Compliant with JEDEC memory buffer (MB) and Raw Card K standards
• Symmetric memory buffers maintain signal integrity
• Elpida's original heat spreader to increase cooling and maintain reliable operation in response to the higher memory density
• 40nm process 4-gigabit DDR3 SDRAM (DDP) installed

Elpida has already begun sample shipments of the new LRDIMM. Mass production is expected to begin in the first quarter of CY 2011.