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DDR3 is hardly a new technology, having been around for roughly 2 years now. While many of you are no doubt familiar with the technology, we will still quickly skim over a few of the basics. DDR3 is not only designed to be faster than DDR2, but it also uses considerably less power as well, around 30% less power.  Whereas DDR2 memory modules require 1.8v, the newer DDR3 memory modules are designed to work at just 1.5v, allowing them to work at greater frequencies while still saving power and generating less heat. JEDEC (Joint Electron Device Engineering Council), the mob responsible for developing the DDR memory standard, among other things, says that the maximum recommended voltage is 1.575v for DDR3 memory and that this voltage should not be exceeded.   Obviously A-DATA does not agree, as they recommend using 1.65v to 1.75v when using their DDR3 PC3-12800 CL7 (6GB) memory kit. DDR3 memory is tested to withstand up to 1.975v of power before failing, though they are not expected or required to operate properly at this voltage.  The A-Data X Series DDR3-1600X 6GB memory kit is designed to work using CAS7-7-7-20 timings, which are very impressive timings for DDR3 memory operating at 1600MHz. There are already a few kits designed to work at this frequency with CAS7-7-7-20 timings, though they are quite pricey, with 6GB kits costing upwards of $175 US.   DDR3 memory modules feature 240-pins, the same number as DDR2, though they are in no way compatible. DDR3 modules have a different key notch location, making it impossible to install DDR2 modules in DIMM slots designed for DDR3 memory. The new Intel Core i7 platform exclusively supports DDR3 memory and therefore it will not be possible to use cheaper DDR2 memory with these processors.  The A-Data X Series DDR3-1600X 6GB memory kits are available in either 3GB or 6GB capacities. The modules use a 6-layer PCB design that feature eight memory chips on each side. These memory chips are cooled via typical heatspreaders that are color coded silver. Finally A-DATA claims to be backing these memory modules with a lifetime warranty. |
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