A memory module typically includes a small printed circuit board which is provided with memory chips, such as dynamic random access memories (DRAMs). Memory modules typically form or extend, for example, the working memory of electronic devices, such as computers or printers. A special type of memory module is a dual inline memory module (DIMM) which includes two rows of contact pins, one on the front side and one on the rear side of the printed circuit board respectively.
One or several memory modules are typically controlled by a memory controller. In order to design this memory controller, knowledge of the longest distance of a line (i.e., a trace) between the memory controller and a memory chip which is to be controlled by the memory controller, which is generally located inside a memory module, is of interest by reason of the running time which is to be taken into consideration by the memory controller. Accordingly, a distinction is made between: a short line (e.g., approximately 5 cm), such as for graphics applications; a medium length line (e.g., approximately 20 cm), such as for personal computers (PCs); and, a long line of more than, for example, 30 cm, such as for connections in a backplane.
Since the reuse of components plays a significant role in today's semiconductor industry, most memory controllers are currently designed for a medium line length, although assemblies which by reason of their configuration could operate with a memory controller designed for a short line length, would be advantageous by reason of their shorter running time and thus higher clock frequency of the memory controller with respect to a memory controller for a medium length line.
However, the length of the line is also typically determined in particular by the dimensions and designs of the memory modules.