The latest advancement in mobile platform memory technology comes with the introduction of LPCAMM2, which boosts speed and efficiency while cutting down on power consumption. Significantly, the ThinkPad P1 Gen 7 is now equipped with faster memory modules that can actually be detached from the motherboard, a welcome change for many users.
The ThinkPad P1 Gen 7 now includes LPCAMM2-based LPDDR5X memory, which is conveniently upgradeable and can be easily removed with nothing more than a screwdriver.
While desktop computers have long offered the simplicity of upgradeable DIMM memory sticks, making them a favorite among tech enthusiasts, most modern laptops have lagged behind due to non-upgradeable memory like LPDDR5 and LPDDR5X being soldered directly onto the motherboard. Fortunately, the new LPCAMM2 memory design means laptops like the ThinkPad P1 Gen 7 can now enjoy the same high-speed performance without those permanent constraints. This improvement is highlighted in a recent video on Bilibili, where a user demonstrates how the ThinkPad P1 Gen 6 stacks up against its successor, showing just how effortless it is to remove the memory module on the newer model.
In terms of speed, the ThinkPad P1 Gen 6 was outfitted with SODIMM DDR5 memory clocked at 5600 MT/s but could only hit speeds of 5200 MT/s due to inherent limitations. The updated Gen 7 model, however, breaks through these constraints, achieving an impressive 7500 MT/s with its LPDDR5X-based LPCAMM2 memory—and installation is straightforward, akin to fitting a standard M.2 drive with just three screws.
Size-wise, LPCAMM2 memory is comparable to a SODIMM DDR5 module but offers significantly enhanced efficiency and performance. There is a catch, though: cost. LPCAMM2 is almost double the price of soldered LPDDR5X memory, leading to a scenario where 16 GB of LPCAMM2 memory would set you back about the same as 32 GB of LPDDR5X. This could make LPCAMM2 appear less appealing unless considering the total price of the laptop itself, where the increase might be more justifiable.
The LPCAMM2 memory design not only takes up less space but also supports speeds up to 8533 MT/s. Leading tech companies like Samsung, Micron, and GEIL are already rolling out their versions of LPCAMM2, and it’s expected this memory standard will soon become prevalent in high-end laptops. Additionally, while LPCAMM2 might still be perceived as niche within desktop PCs, given its newness, it offers some compelling benefits such as higher speeds, shorter PCB traces, reduced latencies, and improved cooling efficiency.
Meeting JEDEC standardization criteria, LPCAMM2 promises to be a game-changer for client PCs, laptops, and high-performance workstations, as it draws about 60% less power compared to SODIMM, ultimately minimizing heat production.
For further insights, check out the original post on Bilibili.
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