DDR5 RAM technology does not stand still. Manufacturers are trying to squeeze maximum performance out of it. Commercially available modern DDR5 modules already offer speeds of up to 8000 MT/s and even higher. On this occasion, Asus introduced a new implementation of the DIMM slot, NitroPath DRAM Technology, designed to improve the quality of signal transmission between the CPU and RAM, as well as increasing the reliability of the DIMM connectors themselves.
Image source: ASUS
As stated on the official Asus blog, NitroPath DRAM technology improves RAM performance thanks to a new routing scheme. By using shorter gold-plated contacts inside the connector, the noise level of the transmitted signal is reduced. Combined with optimized signal paths within motherboards between the CPU and memory modules, NitroPath DRAM technology enables increased RAM overclocking by up to 400 MT/s.
NitroPath DRAM technology also means the DIMM sockets themselves are strengthened, which increases their durability. The manufacturer has improved the strength of the connectors to withstand side loads during installation (up to 20%) and removal of memory modules (up to 25%), as well as the fixation of the connectors on the motherboard (by 57%) compared to conventional DIMM connectors.
The first Asus boards to receive DIMM sockets with NitroPath DRAM technology were the flagship models ROG Crosshair X870E Hero and ROG Strix X870E-E Gaming WIFI for Ryzen 9000 processors, presented today.