Crucial's Ballastix 1Gb DDR2 PC8000 takes the next step in performance memory

Introduction

Crucial is a division of Micron Tecechnology. One of the largest dynamic random access memory (DRAM) manufacturers in the world, and the only one based in the U.S. Located in Idaho, USA, Micron manufactures DRAM chips and assembles them into high-quality memory modules for sale to original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs") worldwide.

In our last review, we've taken a look at Crucial's DDR-500 1Gb kits, and we were very impressed. Today, thanks to Micron and Crucial, we are please to give you yet another CPU3D exclusive ... a review on their Ballistix DDR2 PC8000 1Gb kits.

As you already know by now, AMD's latest AM2 processors are now available for sale. It uses the 940-pin socket and supports DDR2 ram. I guess AMD had no choice but, to follow the DDR2 bandwagon or get left behind. Eventually, many enthusiasts and gamers will have to migrate from DDR1 to DDR2 ... it's only a matter of time. The Intel socket-775 platform are already using DDR2 ram, and although been some concerns about memory latency issues ... it seems that they've so how managed to diverted the attention to focus on the release of their Conroe processors. Preliminary tests show that X6800 Conroe using DDR2 ram will actually outperform AMD's flagship processor ... the Athlon FX-62.

Right now, DDR2 memory modules aren't cheap when compared to DDR1. And for higher performance DDR2 ram ... the prices are even higher. For example a standard 1Gb (2x512Mb) kit of DDR2 PC6400 will set you back £120.00 (US $200). This can be a major factor and could deter a lot of potential buyers ... fully spec'd system using DDR2 ram will cost you more.

When I first heard about DDR2 memory, I was pretty confused how they class and labelled them. OK, I'll try and give you some DDR2 terminology ...

• PC4200 : DDR2-533 : 133FSB : 266Mhz
• PC5300 : DDR2-667 : 166FSB : 333Mhz
• PC6400 : DDR2-800 : 200FSB : 400Mhz
• PC8000 : DDR2-1000 : 250FSB : 500Mhz
• PC8500 : DDR2-1066 : 266FSB : 533Mhz
• PC10000 : DDR2-1200 : 300FSB : 600Mhz

These Ballistix DDR2 kits from Crucial, are their high-end product ... rated at PC8000 (DDR2-1000 that's 500Mhz) with memory timings of 5-5-5-15. And with overclocking and stability in mind, these Ballastix memory modules have extra features such as heat-spreaders and higher quality ram chips. All of which, helps during overclocking.

Let's take a look at the specifications ...