RAM Choice

[Stringent]

I think my PC needs a RAM upgrade, currently have 1GB of a mix n match of modules, but want to go to 2GB. Have narrowed my choice to two options,

2Gb (2X1Gb) Corsair TwinX XMS DDR PC3200 (400), 184 Pins, Non-ECC Unbuffered, CAS 2-3-3-6
http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Produ...oductID=156701

Or

2Gb (2X1Gb) Corsair TwinX XMS DDR PC3200 (400), 184 Pins, Non-ECC Unbuffered, CAS 3-3-3-8
http://www.scan.co.uk/Products/Produ...oductID=353415

Apart from the former having faster CAS latency, and cheaper (but not in stock) I can't see much difference. Would I see much difference?

I have an Athlon X2 4200 S939 on an KN8-Ultra board. Vista Ultimate ran sluggish even with my NVIDIA 7950GX2.

[DanceswithUnix]

You might be able to measure a difference, but you wouldn't be able to *feel* the difference.

I always for for branded but budget myself, such as Geil or Corsair value ranges.

[Stringent]

This then?

2Gb (2X1Gb) Corsair Value Select DDR PC3200 (400), 184 Pins, Non-ECC Unbuffered, CAS 3-3-3-8
http://www.scan.co.uk/products/produ...oductID=217959

What is the difference between XMS and value? The CAS timings are the same, or is it the components they are made of?

[GSte]

They'll be made with different chips, and the XMS will most likely OC better than the value select, but if you aren't gonna OC the RAM then get the value select as both types have lifetime warranty.

[tigerboyce]

I think most of the time well corsair anyway the value select modules are not supplied with fitted heat spreaders. they are the aluminium casing that goes over the memory that just distribute the heat evenly..

i would also consider going for a different brand such as Geil from Ocuk or microdirect as scan dont stock any other brands that are just as good and cheaper try:

http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showpr...d=8&subcat=481

have heatspreaders, cheaper, and look cooler lol

[DanceswithUnix]

Tests I have seen have shown heat spreaders to be basically useless at helping ram overclocking. Proper heatsinks have lots of fins, and for good reason.

They do however
1/ Look nice
2/ Give some form of static protection

I especially like point 2 there, but not enough to spend much money

[merdat]

Should'nt need to depend on heatspreaders to protect against 'static' --one should be wearing correct 'ESP' kit when working on M/B or Ram.

[Clunk]

Should'nt need to depend on heatspreaders to protect against 'static' --one should be wearing correct 'ESP' kit when working on M/B or Ram.