Maximum PC

Alright, I decided upon myself this weekend to understand those "strange" numbers that represent the latency of DDR memory in an effort to make an intelligent choice for my next set of dual channel 1Gb memory modules.

From what I have learned, CAS Latency is normally the most important value (representing the number of clock cycles of its operation) with the other values (RAS to CAS, RAS Precharge, Active to Precharge, Command rate) having not as much an impact.

What I dont understand is why some memory rated at a higher latency, is actually more expensive? For example:

I am looking into the Corsair brand of memory and in particular these two:

Corsair TWINX Dual Channel 2-3-3-6-T1

Corsair TWINX Platinum Dual Channel 3-3-3-8

The Platinum version of this particular brand of memory actually costs $27.00 US more than its non-platinum counterpart, why is that? Is it just a sale on the more inexpensive one or is there more to determining the "fastness" and quality of memory other than through the CAS value? (Other than Led's and special heatsinks)

If these Corsair memories arent that great, could you guys please recommend a good quality pair of dual channel DDR memory modules for around $200 US (thats my budget).

i have no clue on this one. but check out newegg as well.

Maybe the platinum version has some older chips that were more expensive back then and the non-platinums use newer, less expensive chips?

Anyway, go with the 2-3-3-6 version if you feel like going Corsair. If the sticks from Tigerdirect has shipping charges, go with Newegg instead. It'll be cheaper.

always a thought, also the platinum is their premier line, its like their top, other then the stuff with the lights. since its platinum they charge a platinum price.

TigerDirect is normally overpriced.

Either NewEgg, ZipZoomFly.com or ChiefValue.com will have the lowest price. ZipZoomFly and ChiefValue.com offer free 2 day FedEx shipping on the majority of their products.

On an A64 system, it's also highly preferable to be able and run a 1t command rate.

im planning on buy this memory for my next system, how do you guys think it is?

nice price

i have not heard bad things about it
but i have heard "ive heard bad things about patriot" before, still i've seen people happy with it, no direct complaints. i'd go for it. any idea who makes their memory modules?

It's not a bad deal when you get loosely timed PC4000 rated RAM for only $160.



Their non-XBL DDR line is made up of Liberty chips.

ok, so the timings arent bad on that.