RAM Speed codes, Speeds and RAM/FSB Dividers
Could some kind sole help an ‘old fool’ understand the RAM speed codes and the relationship between RAM speed and FSB and the use of ratio dividers in overclocking.
I have seen comments that for Core 2 Duo, anything over DDR2 PC6400 (800Mhz) is a waste of money, why and is this really true? Is 667 Mhz the fastest you need if you don’t want to OC, and 800 Mhz if you do? If so what is the point of the faster memory, is it just for extreme FSB OCs, or maybe to provide headroom so the RAM operates comfortably within it’s performance capability?
OK here is what I understand:
RAM codes and related speeds:
PC3200 = 400 Mhz
PC4000 = 500 Mhz
PC4200 = 533 Mhz (why not 525 Mhz)
PC4300 = 533 Mhz (why not 537.5 Mhz?)
PC4400 = 550 Mhz
PC5300 = 667 Mhz (why not 662.5 Mhz?)
PC5400 = 667 Mhz (why not 675 Mhz?)
PC6400 = 800 Mhz
PC8000 = 1000 Mhz
PC8500 = 1066Mhz (why not 1062.5 Mhz?)
So therefore the A-Data PC1000+ is PC8000?
My query is in relation to Core 2 Duo, I plan to build a system with an E6700 (maybe E6600) and to overclock it to a reliable, sustainable stable level for ongoing use, not to see how far I can take it. Reliability and Stability are paramount It will live in an Antec P180 and be air cooled. I had been planning an ATi X1950XTX GPU but now think I may splash out on an nForce 8800 GPU, but want a fast single graphics card, I am not interested in SLI or Crossfire.
I want to run Flight Sims (including new MS Flight Simulator X) as fast and at as high detail & quality level as possible. I currently have 1600*1200 monitor, but may upgrade to 1920*1200 one day. I was toying with a 3 monitor setup, but have given up that idea as a bit OTT - as I have a real plane I fly as well (OK so not in combat!).
Many thank to anyone who helps me gain a clear(er) understanding!