We have been discussing quite a bit about low-latency modules and the future of DDR I in our freshly published memory evaluations. According to our recently confirmed reports, DDR I is here to stay for sometime and memory manufacturers will continue to develop DDR I memory products to better fit the market segment. In this analysis, we will not start our discussion on Intel’s immature platform and the future of DDR2, as we have already presented our thoughts on these subjects previously.

To continue with our latest take down on low-latency and highly attractive PC3200 modules, we have managed to acquire retail samples of Crucial Ballistix and Kingston’s HyperX memory products for thorough testing in our central lab. Although our focus for this analysis is purely on low-latency system memory, we have decided to include Kingston’s HyperX Cas. 2 memory in this review for comparison purposes. While the timings for Kingston’s HyperX Cas. 2 memory are not too bad and can be tightened theoretically, it’s the TCCD chips that make the difference. And obviously enough, these modules are not equipped with the highly popular Samsung chips.

Also in this analysis, we will evaluate Crucial’s Ballistix low-latency modules as they are currently getting a lot of positive attention from users in terms of their overall performance and value. Surely enough, both of these dual-channel kits will be tested against their up most competitors – Corsair and OCZ. How well do they stack up? Has Crucial truly released a performance wonder in the market? Read on and find out…

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UPDATE 10/27/04: We just received an e-mail from Kingston stating that they have fixed the timings issue with their entry level PC3200 enthusiast (not low-latency) memory in the updated revisions of the product. Please note that the modules tested in this evaluation are not Kingston's HyperX Low-Latency modules. We are working on getting them in our lab soon and will report back with our findings. We are glad that Kingston took care of the issues we faced with our evaluation units.

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