KTH-PL548E-16G Kingston 16GB pc5-38400 DDR5 4800MHz ECC 288-pin DIMM Memory

• Model Identifier: KTH-PL548E-16G
• Manufacturer: Kingston
• Component Type: High-efficiency RAM DIMM

Technical Specifications

• Capacity: 16GB
• Speed Rating: 4800MHz (PC5-38400)
• ECC Support: Yes, Unbuffered ECC
• Rank: Single-Rank
• Voltage: 1.10V
• Pins: 288-pin UDIMM
• Form Factor: Standard DIMM for DDR5 desktop platforms

KTH-PL548E-16G Kingston 16GB DDR5 ECC Memory Module

The KTH-PL548E-16G Kingston 16GB PC5-38400 DDR5 4800MHz Single-rank CL40 1.10V ECC Unbuffered 288-pin DIMM represents a high-performance server and workstation memory solution designed to deliver faster speeds, lower power consumption, and enhanced error correction compared to previous-generation memory technologies. Belonging to the category of DDR5 ECC Unbuffered DIMMs, this module is optimized for stable performance in enterprise-grade environments where data integrity and consistent throughput are essential. As DDR5 becomes the new standard for memory, modules like the Kingston KTH-PL548E-16G are instrumental in enabling next-generation servers and applications to operate with higher bandwidth, improved multitasking, and reliable error correction features.

DDR5 Architecture: The Generational Leap

DDR5 memory is not merely a speed increase over DDR4; it's a fundamental architectural overhaul. The Kingston KTH-PL548E-16G leverages key DDR5 innovations. It features a lower operating voltage of 1.10V, enhancing power efficiency. Crucially, DDR5 moves the power management integrated circuit (PMIC) from the motherboard to the module itself, allowing for better signal integrity and more stable voltage regulation. Furthermore, DDR5 modules feature two independent 32-bit sub-channels per 64-bit module, increasing efficiency for memory access patterns compared to DDR4's single 64-bit channel.

Speed and Latency: PC5-38400, 4800MHz, CL40

The module's data transfer rate is 4800 Megatransfers per second (MT/s), which equates to a peak bandwidth of 38.4 GB/s per module (PC5-38400). The CAS Latency (CL) of 40 represents the number of clock cycles between a read command and the first piece of data being available. While this number is higher than typical DDR4 latencies, it must be evaluated within the context of the much faster clock speed. The true latency in nanoseconds is calculated as (CL / Speed in MHz) * 2000. For this module: (40 / 4800) * 2000 = ~16.67 nanoseconds, offering improved or comparable real-world latency to previous generations while providing vastly greater bandwidth.

288-Pin DIMM Form Factor

The module utilizes a 288-pin Dual In-line Memory Module (DIMM) design. While it shares the same pin count as some DDR4 modules, the notch key position is different, preventing accidental insertion into an incompatible DDR4 motherboard slot. Always verify that your motherboard is designed for DDR5 memory.

Capacity: 16GB

The 16GB capacity is a balanced point for many workstations. Most dual-channel motherboards offer four DIMM slots, allowing for a 64GB total configuration (4x16GB), which is ample for most professional applications. For quad-channel platforms (like Threadripper Pro), starting with a 4x16GB (64GB) kit is common. Assess your software's memory requirements—large simulations, virtual machines, and 4K/8K video editing often benefit from 64GB or more.

4800MHz as Speed

The 4800MHz speed of the KTH-PL548E-16G is the baseline JEDEC standard for DDR5. This guarantees plug-and-play compatibility at this speed without requiring XMP/EXPO overclocking. For many professional users, stability and ECC are prioritized over extreme speed. This module provides a high-bandwidth, stable foundation. It's important to note that many supported platforms will natively run DDR5 at 4800MHz or 5200MHz with ECC enabled, making this module an ideal match.

Flexibility

Thanks to the universal 288-pin form factor and ECC unbuffered configuration, installation is straightforward for any motherboard designed for DDR5 memory. The module automatically adjusts to system requirements, offering plug-and-play functionality and consistent performance without manual adjustments.