Out in Front: February 1, 1996

The DRAM-module market is in a state of flux. A changeover from single-in-line memory modules to both small-outline and 8-byte dual in-line memory modules (DIMMs) is occurring, and research company In-Stat expects DIMMs to account for most worldwide dollar shipments by 1997.

The market is also experiencing a shift with the availability of new types of DRAM chips and modules, including extended-data-out (EDO), burst-EDO, synchronous DRAM, and other specialty DRAM components. Companies have developed these new DRAMs in response to the dramatic increase in µP speeds.

Another trend is the conversion to lower voltage modules--from 5 to 3.3V. Although the price premium and the availability of 3.3V components has been a slight inhibitor in this transition, In-Stat forecasts that the crossover will occur during 1998. Although the overall DRAM-module market is undergoing rapid transitions, it continues to experience strong growth. In 1994, worldwide DRAM-module merchant-market dollar shipments reached more than $11 million, and In-Stat expects them to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 40.7% between 1994 and 1999.

When business is great, the number of players continues to grow. More than 70 companies worldwide manufacture DRAM modules for the merchant market. Of these companies, 14 manufacture both DRAMs and DRAM modules. Watch for In-Stat’s new report, entitled "DRAM Module Merchant Market Analysis Report" in the IC Card and Module Service for a more detailed analysis.
-- by Connie Batchelder, Senior Analyst, IC Cards and Modules, In-Stat

In-Stat, Scottsdale, AZ. (602) 483-4442