JEDEC has published a new JESD318 Compression Attached Memory Module (CAMM2) Common Standard, which defines the electrical and mechanical requirements for Compression-Attached Memory Modules.

JEDEC publishes new CAMM2 memory module standard

It covers both Double Data Rate, Synchronous DRAM Compression-Attached Memory Modules (DDR5 SDRAM CAMM2s) and Low Power Double Data Rate, Synchronous DRAM Compression-Attached Memory Modules (LPDDR5/5X SDRAM CAMM2s).

The standards body highlights that DDR5 and LPDDR5/5X CAMM2s cater to distinct use cases: DDR5 CAMM2s are intended for performance notebooks and mainstream desktops, while LPDDR5/5X CAMM2s target a broader range of notebooks and certain server market segments.

While JESD318 CAMM2 defines a common connector design for both DDR5 and LPDDR5/X, it is crucial to note that the pinouts for each differ, it highlights. To support different motherboard designs, intentional variations in mounting procedures between DDR5 and LPDDR5/X CAMM2s prevent the mounting of a module where it should not go.

Note that JESD318 CAMM2 supports stackable CAMM2s: dual-channel (DC) and single-channel (SC). By splitting the dual-channel CAMM2 connector lengthwise into two single-channel CAMM2 connectors, each connector half can elevate the CAMM2 to a different level.

JEDEC explains that the first connector half supports one DDR5 memory channel at 2.85mm height while the second half supports a different DDR5 memory channel at 7.5mm height. Or, the entire CAMM2 connector can be used with a dual-channel CAMM2. This scalability from single-channel and dual-channel configurations to future multi-channel setups promises a significant boost in memory capacity, it states.

Version 1.0.2 of the standard was officially published in November 2023.

“The development of JEDEC CAMM2 exemplifies JEDEC’s commitment to serving the industry with innovative standards,” said Mian Quddus, the organisation’s Board of Directors Chairman. “CAMM2 is versatile across various use cases and is designed with future scalability in mind.”

Tom Schnell, JEDEC’s CAMM Task Group Chairman added:

“JEDEC CAMM2 is positioned to support and drive next-generation products, offering designers an extensive range of modularity options.”

“As technology evolves, memory requirements grow, and JEDEC CAMM2 is at the forefront of addressing these demands. The support for future multi-channel configurations ensures that designers and manufacturers are not just meeting current needs but are also well-prepared for the evolving landscape of memory solutions.”

JESD318 CAMM2 is available for download from the JEDEC website.

The standard was the work of committee JC-45, which develops standards for DRAM modules, cards, and socket interfaces – addressing “architectural, electrical, test, and SPD issues relating to memory design and manufacturing for commercial applications”.