The interest surrounding DDR3 RAM modules is slowly growing. While prices are still high, the technology has advanced quite quickly and the performance of the modules has significantly improved.

Although many of the high performance DDR3 chips are currently made by Micron, ironically Crucial began offering high speed DDR3 modules a few months later than other companies. Today we will take a look at the best DDR3 set Crucial currently offer, the Ballistix PC3-12800 2GB kit. Rated at 1600MHz with 8-8-8-24 timings @ 1.8V they should offer excellent performance.

Manufacturer specifications

• Module Size: 2GB kit (1GBx2)
• Package: Ballistix 240-pin DIMM
• Feature: DDR3 PC3-12800
• Specs: DDR3 PC3-12800
• 8-8-8-24
• Unbuffered
• NON-ECC
• DDR3-1600
• 1.8V
• 128Meg x 64

Packaging and the modules

The modules are supplied in a very sturdy cardboard box, which provide ample protection, since Crucial modules rarely find their way onto store shelves, aesthetics are not very important. Extra protection is provided to the modules by means of an anti-static bag.

Shipping is another strong plus for Crucial modules. Next day delivery costs only slightly more and is not only available for UK and USA buyers, but for all EU countries.

While the looks of the packaging are not impressive, the modules themselves certainly are. Crucial are using a dark yellow heatspreader with nickel plated trim and when combined with the black PCB you end up with a product you won’t be ashamed to show from your windowed side panel. Unlike most companies Crucial only place stickers with the necessary production codes on the heatspreaders, none that indicate a model number, timings, operating voltage etc. This set is rated for 8-8-8-24 operation at 1600MHz with 1.8V.