Can anyone help me identify what this RAM actually is?

Understanding RAM Specifications: A Guide to Identifying Your Laptop’s Memory Module

Experiencing technical issues with your laptop can be frustrating, especially when it involves hardware components that aren’t easily recognizable. Recently, a user reported encountering a screen that pixelated and then went completely black, with the CAPS LOCK indicator flashing in a pattern that suggested a hardware malfunction. Upon inspection, it was noted that one of the RAM modules appeared damaged. However, identifying the specific type of RAM required for replacement posed a challenge.

Identifying Laptop RAM Modules

The damaged memory stick is labeled with the following specifications:

Samsung 4GB 1Rx16 PC4-3200AA-SCO-11

This alphanumeric code contains critical information about the RAM’s characteristics, but understanding what each part means can be confusing if you’re not familiar with hardware terminology. Let’s break down the key components:

1. Brand and Capacity:
2. Samsung (Brand)

3. 4GB (Memory size)

4. Rank and Organization:

5. 1Rx16:

   • ‘1R’ indicates single rank memory. Ranks are groups of memory chips that the memory controller accesses; single rank means all chips are on one side of the module.
   • ‘x16’ specifies the data width of the individual chips, with 16-bit organization.

6. Standard and Speed:

7. PC4-3200:

   • ‘PC4’ denotes DDR4 SDRAM (the fourth generation of DDR memory).
   • ‘3200’ specifies the maximum data transfer rate in megatransfers per second (MT/s). DDR4-3200 operates at 3200 MT/s.

8. Additional Codes:

9. AA-SCO-11:
   • These are proprietary or manufacturer-specific codes indicating additional specifications like latency, voltage, or module revision, which are generally not necessary for casual identification.

Deciphering Conflicting Information

You mentioned seeing references to “DDR4” and “260-pin” on other modules or listings. Here’s what they mean:

• DDR4: The type of RAM; DDR4 is the current standard for many laptops and desktops, offering improved performance and power efficiency over previous generations.
• 260-pin: Refers to the physical form factor of the RAM module. DDR4 SO-DIMMs (small-outline DIMMs) used in laptops typically come in either 260-pin (for DDR4) or 204-pin (for DDR3). Ensuring compatibility requires