ASRock unveiled a new DDR5 memory format called HUDIMM, short for half‑unbuffered DIMM. The module occupies only one of the two 40‑bit sub‑channels on a standard UDIMM, halving both bandwidth and capacity while still fitting DDR5 sockets. Designed for entry‑level PCs and business desktops, HUDIMM aims to ease the current DDR5 price pressure.

Team Group will manufacture the inaugural HUDIMM modules, which ASRock validated on Intel 600, 700 and 800 chipsets. Support needs a firmware tweak; ASRock will issue a UEFI update. Users can pair an 8 GB HUDIMM with a 16 GB UDIMM for asymmetric totals like 24 GB while still using three DDR5 sub‑channels. HSODIMM applies the single‑channel concept to DDR5 SO‑DIMM slots for Deskmini PCs.

With DDR5 parts scarce and pricey, HUDIMM offers a stopgap that lets budget builds stay on the newest platform without paying premium capacity. ASRock also promises upcoming LGA1700 boards that accept both DDR4 and DDR5, signaling a flexible approach to the memory crunch. The company’s dual‑standard strategy gives consumers a cheaper path to modern CPUs right now.

Early adopters will likely test performance trade‑offs, but the lower price point could broaden DDR5 adoption in small‑office environments.