Exciting developments are on the horizon for DDR5 memory technology, as JEDEC is working on a new CQDIMM standard for enhanced CKD memory modules. This innovation promises to bring higher capacities to future computing platforms, capturing the interest of tech enthusiasts and industry leaders alike.
Unveiling the CQDIMM Standard with Intel’s Arrow Lake Refresh
Recent collaborative efforts by MSI and ADATA have led to a significant update in memory module design. The transition from 2-Rank to 4-Rank CUDIMM modules will allow for capacities of up to 128 GB per module, effectively doubling the potential of existing platforms while preserving the rapid CKD implementation. It’s not just MSI making strides; other prominent manufacturers like Gigabyte and ASUS are also stepping up. Reports suggest that these companies are working to enable support for 4-Rank DDR5 memory modules on both current and future high-end motherboards.
The Rise of CQDIMM: A New Era for DDR5 CKD Modules
JEDEC is gearing up to introduce CQDIMM, a new standard that enhances the existing CUDIMM by supporting 4-Rank CKD, with the “Q” denoting Quad. The advantage of CKD, or Clock Driver, is the maintenance of impressive speeds of 7200 MT/s, a feature anticipated to be natively supported by next-generation platforms. This shift to CQDIMM is poised to revolutionize memory capacities and performance, marking a significant leap forward for DDR5 technology.
Intel’s Arrow Lake-S Refresh: The Testing Ground for CQDIMM
Intel’s upcoming Arrow Lake-S Refresh, set to launch on desktop and laptop platforms early next year, is expected to be the first to harness the potential of the CQDIMM DDR5 standard. Despite the promise of 128 GB modules, current memory prices may pose a challenge in the near term. However, experts anticipate that as the market stabilizes, CQDIMM will gain broader adoption, especially with the launch of Nova Lake-S CPUs in late 2026. As CES 2026 approaches, more information about these technological advancements is likely to emerge.