The term “CL” in the context of RAM (Random Access Memory) refers to “CAS Latency.” CAS stands for Column Address Strobe, and latency in this context is a measure of the delay between the memory controller requesting data from the memory and the moment that data is available for use.
CAS Latency is expressed in clock cycles. For example, if you see a RAM module rated at “CL16,” it means that it has a CAS latency of 16 clock cycles. Lower CAS latency values indicate faster performance, as the memory can respond to requests more quickly. However, it’s important to consider CAS latency in conjunction with the memory speed (measured in MHz) to get a better understanding of overall performance.
When comparing RAM modules, both the CAS latency and the memory speed should be taken into account. A RAM module with a higher speed but significantly higher CAS latency may not perform better than a module with a lower speed and lower CAS latency. Thus, it’s essential to look at the overall balance of these specifications when choosing RAM for your system.