According to the provided reference, "max memory channel" specifies the maximum number of DIMM modules that can be installed within a single memory channel on a CPU platform.
Defining "Max Memory Channel" Based on the Reference
The provided reference offers a specific definition for "max memory channel." Rather than referring to the total number of memory channels a system supports (like dual or quad channel, which are common terms), it defines this term as the maximum amount of DIMMs (Dual In-line Memory Modules) that can be installed within a single memory channel.
Interpreting the Number of DIMMs Per Channel (According to the Reference)
The reference further utilizes this number—the maximum amount of DIMMs per channel—to indicate the overall multi-channel capabilities supported by the CPU platform.
Here's how the number of DIMMs per channel, as defined by the reference, relates to the system's memory channel support:
- If the maximum number of DIMMs supported in a given channel is stated as 2: This implies that the CPU platform is capable of supporting both single and dual channel memory configurations.
- If the maximum number of DIMMs supported in a given channel is stated as 3 or 4: According to the reference, this capability suggests that the CPU platform supports triple or quad channel memory configurations, respectively, and potentially configurations with more channels ("...etc.").
Why Does This Matter?
Understanding the maximum number of DIMMs per channel, as described by the reference, provides insight into how memory must be populated on the motherboard to enable performance-enhancing multi-channel modes like dual channel or quad channel. Correctly installing memory modules across the available slots, while adhering to the maximum DIMMs per channel limit, is crucial for maximizing memory bandwidth and overall system performance. It indicates the architecture's ability to handle multiple memory modules within its channels to achieve these faster modes.
