Micron prepares 16 GB DDR2 for late 2006 release

Servers memory capacity will get a boost later this year with availability of 16 GB modules. Micron is currently sampling the devices, which are built in a 36x2x2Gb "twin-die" stack configuration. Commercial availability is planned for late 2006.

Ultra-dense DDR and DDR2 memory modules ar etypically used in high-end server environments when a memory upgrade makes more economical sense than replacing a complete server. However, high-end memory is not quite mainstream in terms of pricing and typically out of reach for the average customer.

Current 8 GB stacked-die memory modules can be found in online stores listed on Froogle for about $2000, with the main portion of the market exceeding $5000 for 8 GB modules and 2 x 4GB kits. The 16 GB module will continue the tradition of high-end pricing and exceed the 8 GB generation by a substantial margin. According to Micron spokeswoman Kirstin Bordner, high-density memory devices are typically priced "witin the $200 - $300 range."

Considering that the 16 GB memory has 72 components (36 twin-dies) potential buyers should expect a price somewhere between $14,400 and $21,600 per module.