Abstract: A computer system includes a memory subsystem which has DIMM slots capable of receiving both DRAM and SDRAM memory module devices. A memory device detection methodology detects the presence of installed memory modules in the memory module slots, and signal levels on predetermined pins of the installed memory modules are processed to identify the specific type of memory module installed. The mode of an associated memory controller is set according to the type of module detected to be present, and the characteristics for the memory module are read.