Weekly Memory Prices - Week of May 6, 2002 - Page 2

Weekly Memory Prices

SDRAM

While last week brought a wealth of SDRAM price drops, this week we're back to the standard fare: a few lower prices mixed with a few price increases. While most decreases were in the $1 to $3 range, some of the price cuts were more noticeable. Examples include the $8 drop on PC133 CAS2 256-MB and $5 cut to PC100 CAS2 ECC 256-MB. Although some prices are falling, we're just not getting the same consistent $6-$10 decreases that we had last week.

DDR SDRAM

Our extended listing of DDR SDRAM is certainly giving us the best indication of where the real price action is. This week virtually all DDR SDRAM prices are down, save for a select few which thankfully remain unchanged in price. PC2100 256-MB is down $6 to an attractive $52. As more buyers move to PC2700, overall PC2100 prices mirrored the trend and dropped consistently this week (as they did last week). Hopefully we'll continue to see lower PC2100 prices in the coming weeks.

RDRAM

This week RDRAM goes its own way, with no real change in overall pricing. With the i850E announced this week and demand for RDRAM expected to rise, it might be a good time to stock up at these low prices.

Overall

Overall memory prices continue to decrease, which is certainly good news for consumers, especially those looking at upgrading DDR SDRAM. Competition and high PC2100 inventory levels seem to be the main factors of these lower prices this week, so there is no reason why we all can't hope for more good news next week. Do yourselves a favor and confirm the current price before making any purchase. Memory prices are volatile and while our weekly guide does illustrate overall trends, the actual dollar price could shift up or down quite quickly.

Vangie"Aurora" Beal
News & Interviews Editor