Different Memory...

[Garyclaus16]

Alright, I have been planning a A64 939 90nm system since they have debuted. The one component I still am not sure on what to do about is memory. I am on somewhat of a budget, however, I know what I want for my mobo/cpu/psu, etc. I Have crucial pc2700 512, and I know that has to go in order to achieve optimal performance. I have tried to take in so much information on different types of ram and different latencies. The problem is I am not quite clear on the specific function of each value. Example: 2-2-2-5 vs 2-3-2-5. I wouldn't know what the difference is. I am hoping someone has a link to a detailed article on latencies or something. My main issue is that I have read so much and been exposed to so many different opinions on RAM that I am not sure what to do with all the info. I know that the ballistix and the OCZ rev. 2 are both argued to be the 'best?' I basically need to find the best value performance RAM. I do not know how much money I will be able to allocate to the cost of the ram, but I could guess around $150-250? Also, is there an issue at running 4x256mb to achieve 1 gig, and can both pairs be run in dual channel mode? I just thought that route might yield a cheaper way to attain my goals.

My goal is to OC a 3200 winchester to atleast 2.5 ghz on the msi 939 board. I am looking for 2x512 that would allow me to achieve that with relatively fast timings.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.
-Gary

 

[Rhagz]

While I can't explain exactly what each latency parameter means, I can tell you that in most cases, lower is better. The most important usually would be the CAS latency, usually the first in the set. It will be either 2.0 2.5 or 3.0. You would probably want to go for a 2.0 since AMD platforms like tight (faster, lower) timings more than Intel which runs with wakcy loose timing. I am building a compu similar to yours, except with a 3500+ 90nm and I am pretty much set on the OCZ EL Platinum Rev. 2. Everything I have seen points to this ram being the best on the market, but you pay for it.. its nearly 300 bucks for 2x512 (1GB) It can be run at up to 2.9volts without voiding the warranty, and the new Samsung TCCD chips are the closest to BH-5 that you can find. It will most likely keep the tightest timing at high frequencies. You certainly won't be running it at 2-2-2 with a high over clock, but it will be closer than any competition.

 

[Garyclaus16]

Thanks, Rhagz
I was thinking about the pqi TURBO Series Dual Channel Platinum Kit (512MB x 2) @ $260. They are tccd. Does anyone know of any problems with this ram?

 

[Rhagz]

They are good from what I have read.. there is a good review of the current RAM and they overclock it all, that pqi turbo stuff was included.. try searching for it.

Edit: didnt take much searching, scroll up, click the memory tab, first article: 2-2-2 memory comparison