Normal for video ram to be several degrees higher than the GPU? (HD 5870)

[balane]

I really couldn't find a firm answer on this by searching.

I have an ATI HD 5870 1GB. The sensors report the memory at 6-8C warmer than the GPU consistently. I have a mild OC at 900/1300. When I run Furmark at 1280x1024 it tops out at 87C for GPU and 94C for the memory. Stock cooler.

The primary reason I'm asking is that I took the card apart to apply some Shin Etsu thermal compound and also replaced the squishy memory pads with copper shims (Light coating of compound on each side.)

I know the fit is all good because I checked for imprint before I put it back together and it all seems to be making solid contact. My concern is that maybe a shim slipped during the second time I put it back together.

So is it common for the memory on a video card to be warmer than the GPU itself?

First hand experiences on a 5870 would be terrific.

Thanks.

 

[Udgnim]

it's common to most if not all video cards

 

[ViRGE]

That's not the memory temperature, that's the memory controller temperature. And yes, that's normal - it's a product of the fact that the memory controller runs at such high clockspeeds.

 

[Ben90]

Good info ViRGE

 

[balane]

Thanks guys. (and possibly gals.)