Later, we doubled up this wired route which is known as dual-channel architecture (you also have triple and quad-channel, let’s leave it for this article). This caused the CPU to wait and it is known as the bottleneck effect.

So, the memory controller couldn’t route data simultaneously from 2 RAM sticks. Previously in the single-channel architecture, there was a single path to send data. Now, there is an intermediatory unit between the RAM and CPU known as the memory controller which guides the data to and fro. Whereas in the case of dual-channel memory, 2 vehicles can drive simultaneously which leads to an increased number of vehicles or more data being sent. When there is a single channel or a single road, the vehicles have to drive in a single line behind each other. If you are well aware of these concepts, you can move ahead to this portion.Ĭonsider the channels as roads from your RAM to the CPU. But before that, we will have to understand what is the dual-channel mode and how to ensure you install a RAM in dual-channel mode.

Next, it’s pretty straightforward and you require an app called CPU-Z.

Here is how to check it.įoremost, check on the manufacturer’s website that your motherboard supports dual-channel memory. Recently, I upgraded my laptop’s RAM from 8 GB to 16 GB and if you are on the same page wondering whether it is running in the dual-channel mode.

Vchannel for windows 7