Closer look II + specs.
The HY5DU56822BT-D43 codes on the Hynix memory denote that these are 256MBit chips (8 chips per side gives 256MByte, and 2 sides gives the required 512MByte per stick) with 8k refresh and 4 banks, based on a 3rd generation die and with TSOP packaging. The chips are rated to run at DDR400 speeds with 3-3-3 latencies. This is exactly the same RAM as found on the standard TwinX XMS4000, no surprises there.
So, in essence, Corsair is overclocking DDR400 memory to DDR500 speeds whilst increasing latencies to 3-4-4. That's some leap in performance. The chips are mounted on a custom Corsair PCB. That's why Corsair also state that the ProSeries is guaranteed to overclock to 500MHz. True 4ns memory wouldn't need such guarantees. How do we feel about RAM that's being run at effectively 25% above rated speeds, albeit with slightly higher latencies ?. As long as the RAM can do what Corsair says, we don't have a problem. It does bring the question of just how much headroom the modules' have. We'll go into that later.
The aforementioned LEDs show memory activity at any given time. Obviously, you'll need a windowed case and the case to the right of your vision if you're to see them in action. A number of cases now have a window option, so the LED idea isn't as daft as it may sound. The above shot shows the RAM sitting idly on the desktop. RAM activity is made up of 18 LEDs on each stick, 9 for each side.
Green LEDs show little or no RAM access, orange LEDs define medium intensity access and red ones are lit when the RAM is being hit continuously. The shot shows the test PC running UT2003; the RAM is subject to a constant barrage. It all reminds me of a sound meter on older cassette decks. Do the LEDs provide any vital information ?. The answer is no. It's plainly obvious when RAM is being accessed. This is not so much an information tool as it is an aesthetic one. A windowed case with a couple of cold cathodes, a graphics card with in-built LEDs of its own and the Corsair ProSeries combine to provide a small yet vibranti illuminations show. The LEDs will do nothing for performance, let's remember that. They're just present to make the RAM look good, which they do with aplomb. To continue stating the obvious, if you don't have a windowed case and don't plan on getting one, there's very little for you here.
Official specifications
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512MB and 1024MB kits available
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Implemented using 16 256MBit chips per module (1GB kit)
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Hynix DDR400 3-3-3 RAM on a custom Corsair PCB
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95% greater surface area than standard memory heatspreaders
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18 LEDs show the level of memory activity
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100% tested at 250MHz (DDR500), as a pair, on an ASUS P4C800 motherboard
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Lifetime Corsair warranty
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Plug-n-Frag Auto-Configuration
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Latency: 3-8-4-4-1T @ 2.75v
Overclocked RAM that's wrapped up in a new heatspreader, one that incorporates LEDs to show memory activity. A guaranteed speed of DDR500 3-4-4-8 @ 2.75v means it's still Corsair's fastest module(s) yet.