Weekly Memory Prices - Week of June 24, 2002 - Page 2

Weekly Memory Prices

SDRAM

This week, SDRAM prices are quite a mixed bag as we see both price increases and decreases. Both PC100 and PC133 displayed the most prominent price decreases in the 256-MB and 512-MB range. PC100 CAS2 ECC 128-MB is down $8 to $36 while PC133 ECC 512-MB fell $5 to $115. Several 128-MB SDRAM modules actually went up in price, in the range of $2 to $8, making this week completely void of pattern or reason. Needless to say, this week's SDRAM prices are quite unexpected as we have seen nothing but very minor changes in this category over the past month.

DDR SDRAM

DDR SDRAM prices are quite the slow movers this week, and except for a couple that did drop, virtually all DDR prices remain unchanged. PC2100 128-MB is down $4 to $23 and PC2700 512-MB is down $2 to $101, but other than that, it's pretty well the status quo. PC2700 prices continue to be a relative value, and consumers are now seeing less of a price fluctuation on this memory type. In fact, this is one area where we could see noticeable price increases in the future, so stocking up now might not be a bad call.

RDRAM

Ah, this week is bringing back memories of RDRAM when it was first released. It has been awhile, but RDRAM prices are on the rise and hearkening back to those days of yore. Price increases ranged from $1 to $8 this week, with PC800 256-MB is up $8 to $94 and PC800 ECC 128-MB is also rising in price by $8.

Overall

Overall memory prices are up slightly this week which, but it's tough to peg an actual trend. While competition seems to be the main factor of lower prices this week, there is no reason why we all can't hope for a few more 'dollar drops' next week.

Do yourselves a favor and confirm prices again before deciding whether or not to buy, as prices have been changing so quickly that most of this guide is unlikely to remain accurate for very long. Also, don't forget to take into account the vendors shipping charges before you buy online. Many online vendors clearly state a shipping policy and fees guide on their website.

Vangie"Aurora" Beal
News & Interviews Editor