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In the Forums... |
Conclusion
We weren't expecting memory rated at 5-5-5-15 to surprise us. Running at 1000MHz effective using 4-4-5-15 timings with HyperPath3 enabled is an experience that delivers ace performance both in terms of bandwidth and latency. When using a default 1066MHz FSB CPU, this translates into an impressive 1200MHz FSB yielding a noticeably more responsive system, especially in encoding scenarios where improving memory bandwidth/latency directly translates into enhanced overall performance. Smithfield and Presler core based Pentium D/Extreme Editions love more FSB and memory bandwidth because it works towards improving inter-core communication via the northbridge. Greater memory bandwidth also contributes to hiding the 31 stage pipeline penalty via faster loading of data into L2 caches. It's only after experimenting with such speedy memory does one really wonder why Intel has been so slow to officially support greater DDR2 speeds than 667MHz, especially as it's crucial to making the Prescott Bunsen burner perform best. Now with AMD on the DDR2 bandwagon, Athlon X2/FX's don't reveal such pipeline penalties however all indications point to AMD needing all the performance it can get if to compete with the upcoming Core 2 Duo. Is Crucial's Ballistix PC2-8000 DDR2 memory a remedy to such situation? Crucial's Ballistix PC2-8000 certainly has pulled a few surprises and we were able to run the memory at PC2-8500 (1066MHz effective) speeds using default timings, a trait which proves it as a good match alongside native 1066MHz FSB CPU's. At slower official speeds it delivers tight timings of 3-2-3-4 making a stand for itself as a universal solution whether you just want tight timings or optimum bandwidth, the choice as it seems is really down to you. Some may dislike the lack of flashing LED's on the modules themselves however this is very much subject to one’s personal opinion. What is worthy of note is the limited lifetime warranty and the fact that Crucial (a sister company of Micron) has been around for longer than some other brands, and offers a direct online purchasing option. The negative aspect of such memory is that to truly appreciate its potential, one must time and time again own a motherboard with the right BIOS settings including PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design for stability. Those who build their PC themselves are usually in a much better position than those who don't. For example a custom built system using Asus's P5WD2-E motherboard is perfect for running such memory as its VDIMM goes up to 2.4V. An owner of a brand new Dell Dimension XPS with a Pentium Extreme Edition 965 however is most likely restricted due to Dell's continued conservatism. After literally hours of testing this memory, the following bottom line seems about right - it shows pleasing potential beyond its initial standard specifications, comes from a renowned source, and includes a lifetime warranty. Is it worthy of a recommendation? Given a price around the $460 (£295) mark for 2GB (2x 1GB), it’s not going to cause a radical surge in customers all clicking that order button nonetheless it does exactly what it states and then some more by unveiling some hidden talent.
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