Difference Between SIMM and DIMM


SIMM and DIMM are types of memory modules which are designed to eliminate the use of Dual Inline Package (DIP) chips because the installation of DIP chips is difficult. The basic difference between the two is that SIMM has only one side that is usable at a time because it has only one set of connector, whereas DIMM has different usable pins at each side.

Read this article to learn more about SIMM and DIMM and how they are different from each other.

What is SIMM?

SIMM stands for Single In-Line Memory Module. SIMM is a type of memory module that contains RAM (Random Access Memory) which are used in computers from 1980s to 2000s. SIMM was standardized under the JEDEC JESD-21C standard. It was invented by James J. Parker at Zenith Microcircuits in 1982. SIMM supports a 32-bit channel for data transmission, and it requires a power supply of 5 volts. There are two types of SIMM namely 30-pins SIMM and 72-pins SIMM.

The 30-pins SIMM has an address width of 8 bits and 1 MB or 4 MB RAM. Whereas the 72-pins SIMM has an address width of 31-bits or 36-bits and it also includes parity bits. The RAM size in the 72-pins SIMM can be 4 MB, 8 MB, 16 MB, 32 MB, or 64 MB.

What is DIMM?

DIMM stands for Dual In-Line Memory Module. DIMM is a limited circuit board which is used to manage memory chips. DIMM requires a 64-bit channel to the memory for data transmission. This enables DIMM to transfer more data at a time.

DIMM has a sequence of memory called dynamic random access memory (DRAM) that supports primary storage. DIMM is designed to enhance the previous SIMM that facilitates matched pairs. DIMM operates only one circuit board, hence it improves the memory speed and storage.

DIMM also has a relatively smaller circuit board and clear insertion. It requires a power supply of 3.3 volts. The most commonly used pin configuration of DIMM module is 168-pins DIMM.

Now, let us discuss the differences between SIMM and DIMM in detail.

Difference between SIMM and DIMM

The following are the important differences between SIMM and DIMM −

S.No.

SIMM

DIMM

1.

SIMM stands for Single In-line Memory Module.

DIMM stands for Dual In-line Memory Module.

2.

The pins present on either facets are connected.

The pins in DIMM are freelance in nature.

3.

It supports 32 bit channel for data transfer.

It supports 64 bit channel for data transfer.

4.

It consumes power of 5 volts.

It consumes power of about 3.3 volts.

5.

It provides storage space of about 4 MB to 64 MB.

DIMM provides the storage 32 MB to 1 GB.

6.

The most common pin configuration of SIMM module is 72 pins.

The most common pin configuration of DIMM module is 168 pins.

7.

It is an old technology.

They are replacement of SIMMs module.

8.

They are installed in pairs.

They are installed one at a time.

9.

They can be used by early Pentium computers as well as by 486 CPU.

They are generally used by modern Pentium computers.

10.

The length and width of SIMM are 4.25 inches and 1 inch respectively.

The length and width of this module are about 1.67 to 5.25 inches and 1 to 1.75 inches respectively.

11.

There are single notches in it.

There are two notches in this module.

Conclusion

The most significant difference that you should note here is that SIMM provides a 32-bit channel for data transmission, while DIMM provides a 64-bit channel for data transmission.

Updated on: 22-Feb-2023

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