AMD launches own-brand system memory line

AMD has entered the system memory game with a series of own-branded DRAM products, optimised to work with the company's systems.

The AMD Memory desktop modules went on sale on Monday in North America, although they are coming to the UK as well. The modules are rebranded Patriot Memory products, and AMD is also working with its longtime technology partner VisionTek on distribution.

"AMD has been supplying and validating memory for AMD Radeon graphics cards for several years, AMD GPU division chief Matt Skynner said in a statement. "Based on this experience, adding system memory to our product line was a clear opportunity for us. This move provides our partners and end-users with a trusted brand synonymous with quality."

AMD uses a tool called OverDrive to optimise and test DRAM for its own APUs, CPUs and GPUs. According to the company, it can now "tune and optimise memory modules for other manufacturers" too.

Another advantage for AMD is that it can use the own-branded memory to flesh out its product bundles, adding DRAM to the existing mix of graphics, CPU, APU and motherboard chipset products.

The AMD Memory sticks will come in 2GB, 4GB and 8GB sizes. An Entertainment category will include 1333MHz and 1600MHz RAM for home theatres. The Performance category offers low latency at up to 1600MHz, while the Radeon Edition DRAM will run at 1866MHz.