Final validation of the next generation of laptop RAM is approaching, and this new system memory form factor, known as CAMM, will replace SO-DIMMs in laptops as early as next year, promising improved performance and a slimmer form factor. Strictly speaking, CAMs are not a new technology. [Strictly speaking, notebooks with CAMM memory modules are already on the market. Dell has made an early foothold in this new memory form factor and is already selling some Precision workstation notebooks with CAMM modules. [However, these modules are built to Dell's own CAMM (Compression Attached Memory Module) specification. Dell recently told PC World (opens in new tab) that the CAMM specification is currently being ratified for industry-wide use by memory standards body JEDEC, with the final specification to be announced later this year, based on final CAMM homologation Retail laptops are expected to be available in 2024.

Incidentally, the term "compression-attached" refers to the way the modules are screwed together, rather than mounted in slots as with SO-DIMMs; to see how CAMM works, watch the PC World video (opens in new tab)

SO-DIMM

SO-DIMMs have been around for 25 years and have been very successful, but their semi-stacked, multi-module method has a significant space cost in terms of thickness, known as z-height. CAMM modules are a way to mount such multi-layered SO-DIMMS on two or four SO-DIMMS and replaces them with a single flat PCB that is much thinner than the sockets needed to accommodate them.

It is also worth noting that CAMM memory prevents laptop manufacturers from easily installing only one SO-DIMM, resulting in single-channel memory that is not ideal or optimal for gaming. With CAMM memory, one module to achieve multi-channel memory.

Another major advantage of CAMM memory is performance: the upper limit of the SO-DIMMS specification is DDR5-6400. And that is exactly where CAMM modules are expected to start, and the speed is expected to increase from there.

Another critical question is whether CAMM modules will encourage laptop makers not to solder memory directly to the motherboard and discourage upgrades. If the thickness of the system encourages system manufacturers to design soldered memory, CAMM may make the difference.

However, soldered memory is always less expensive than bolt-on modules. If cost is the driving factor in choosing a soldered memory solution, it is unlikely that CAMM technology will help much.