Rising RAM costs have pushed PC builders to extreme measures for savings. One such individual in Russia took on the challenge of extracting memory chips from outdated laptop modules and attaching them to empty desktop boards through careful manual soldering.
As reported by VideoCardz.com, this resourceful builder acquired inexpensive DDR4 SO-DIMMs from older laptops, meticulously desoldered the chips by hand, and reattached them to two unused DDR5 DIMM boards. The process demanded extensive effort—soldering tiny components is highly precise—and involved installing specialized firmware to make it functional.
The total expense for creating one 32GB DDR5 module exceeded 17,000 rubles, equivalent to around $218 in U.S. currency. The creator claims this represents roughly one-third of the typical retail cost for such components in Russia. Viktor 'Vik-on' Veklich, the modder behind this project, possesses the necessary equipment and expertise to produce additional units, provided he can continue obtaining the chips; he also markets various RAM testing tools, with a DDR5 version among his latest offerings.
This approach reflects broader trends in creative memory solutions amid shortages. Adapters converting laptop RAM for desktop use, which handle older DDR4 types, are often unavailable on platforms like Amazon. Additionally, there's growing demand for contemporary hardware that supports legacy components, such as fresh motherboards featuring AMD's AM4 platform and DDR4 compatibility.