Specifications and analysis
Specifications
-
256MB module size x 2
-
Implemented using 16M x 8-bit (128-MBit) chip density DDR unbuffered SDRAMs (TSOP) with OCZ's EL DDR ICs. Double-sided RAM
-
ULN (Ultra Low Noise) shielded PCB
-
184-pin DDR.
-
Integrated copper (with a golden finish) heatspreader for improved thermal performance
-
Featuring OCZ's HyperSpeed technology for high MHz running
-
EVP (Extended Voltage Protection) allows the use of 2.9v DDR with fulll warranty
-
Lifetime OCZ limited warranty
-
Optimised for dual-channel operation on Intel Canterwood / Springdale motherboards
-
Six-layer PCB
-
Retail boxed
-
Latency: 2-7-3-3 @ 2.75v @ DDR-466 speeds.
Let's break the specifications down into more palatable English. We have standard 184-pin DDR modules in a 2 x 256MB configuration. The modules are designed to be run in Intel's newest i875P and i865xx chipsets. We've had a number of these through Hexus recently and can conclude that almost every retail sample has managed to hit 250FSB, CPU permitting. That's why these modules, rated to run at 233FSB synchronously, are decent partners to these highly overclockable motherboards. Further, the release of the 2.4 and 2.6GHz Northwood Cs has meant that running 250FSB+ is a real, real possibility.
DDR modules can usually be designed in one of two ways; each method is relatively mutually exclusive. You can either engineer your DDR to run at relatively low overall MHz speeds but with a low latency bias (e.g 200MHz with 2-6-2-2 timings, a la Corsair TwinX), or you can set it such that the modules run at relatively high MHz with semi-relaxed timings. This OCZ dual channel kit is an example of the latter. OCZ term this their 'HyperSpeed' technology. They openly state that these modules may not run at a lower latency than 2-6-3-3 at any frequency, such is the focus upon pure MHz. At least they're open about it. So if you're interested in low latencies you had better look elsewhere. These modules are solely designed to go high in MHz terms, seemingly.
The CAS2 rating may draw a number of potential punters into buying these modules on face value. We've demonstrated in the past that a CAS latency of 2 clocks does very little for DDR. We would have been jumping through hoops if the tRCD (RAS-to-CAS delay) was 2 clocks.
The last aspect to note is that OCZ recommend a minimum of 2.75v for perfect operation at DDR466. That may be a stumbling block for a few CW/SD motherboards because we've seen a few limited to only 2.7v. OCZ seem to cater for the enthusiast by guaranteeing that these modules will function with a usual RAM-burning 2.9v (+/- 5%). They purport to have a novel voltage protection circuit that limits the effects of over-volting. To back up these claims, they appear to warranty any modules that fail within EVP tolerance levels.