Dominant as AMD remains in the CPU space, it currently lacks proper support for CUDIMM memory modules. While the new kits can run on the brand’s AM5 motherboards, this is comes with several caveats that render their advantages moot. This is in stark contrast to rivals Intel, whose Core Ultra 200S chips enjoy the new RAM standard free of any limitations. However, it seems Team Red may be planning to plug this gap in the future.
For those unfamiliar, CUDIMM (Clocked Unbuffered Dual In-line Memory Module) is an update to DDR5 memory that adds a built-in clock driver (CKD) on each module. This component helps regenerate timing signals to improve stability and allow higher memory speeds. The clock driver becomes especially handy on modules targeting speeds above 8,000MT/s. Lastly, CUDIMMs are for desktop systems, meaning they lack the error correction capabilities of their server RDIMM counterparts.
During an interview with Digital Trends, AMD product management lead for gaming and workstations, Sourabh Dhir, confirmed that AM5 meets all the prerequisites necessary to support CUDIMM RAM. When asked if full support requires a new chipset and processor or just a BIOS update, Sourabh explained that it is possible within the same AM5 platform, adding that it’s robust enough with built-in support. He also hinted that this isn’t the last time we’ll hear about CUDIMM or other DDR5 advancements from AMD. Perhaps, Team Red is cooking something special with its upcoming Zen 6 processors?
For the moment, Ryzen 7000 Series processors are completely incapable of running CUDIMM RAM. Switching to Ryzen 8000 or 9000 Series CPUs will see systems post using them, but in a ‘bypass mode’, which ignores the modules’ clock driver. In other words, the main point of purchasing CUDIMM modules goes out the window. The result is a downgrade to the system defaults, requiring manual user tuning to set higher speeds in BIOS settings.
As memory technology continues to evolve, particularly with the push for higher memory speeds – nowadays tickling the 10,000MT/s mark, CUDIMMs represent a solution to maintain the required signal integrity. To keep pace, AMD will need to properly support it to avoid leaving an advantage to the competition.
