whats a VRM?

[four4875]

i've seen VRMs mentioned for dual boards a few times, and was wondering what the heck is a VRM? thanks for answering my (probably noobish) question

 

[Colin]

Voltage Regulator Module. They are built into most of the newer boards.

 

[pip]

on some older dual boards you will need seperate modules for these, they were needed as late as katmai duals so if you are planning on using an older dually you may need to find some

 

[four4875]

hmmm... im wonderin why they wouldnt just build it into the board.... lol. but, do they have to be for the specific board they're goin on, or are they interchangable?

 

[David]

hmmm... im wonderin why they wouldnt just build it into the board.... lol. but, do they have to be for the specific board they're goin on, or are they interchangable?

I think it depends on the CPU. Different CPUs need different voltages and currents.

 

[Jon]

hmmm... im wonderin why they wouldnt just build it into the board.... lol. but, do they have to be for the specific board they're goin on, or are they interchangable?

Not interchangeable. Some boards use 5V VRMs, others use 12V VRMs and not all VRMs are made the same so some need to use specifically manufactured modules altogether.