CES 2007: Motherboards and Memory

G.Skill, GeIL, and Team Group


G.Skill is now shipping their F2-6400CL5D-4GBPQ kits that feature two matched DDR2-800 2GB modules with 5-5-5-15 timings at 1.8V~1.9V. We found with some additional voltage up to 2.1V that the memory would run at 5-4-4-12 at DDR2-800, and we can expect lower latency memories in Q2 and beyond in the 2GB modules. However, for most general users the current latencies are fine at DDR2-800, and dropping down to DDR2-667 will net 4-4-4-12 timings.


G.Skill is also introducing their new value DDR2-800 F2-6400CL4D-2GBHK 1GB modules featuring 4-4-3-5 timings at 2.0V. We have seen this memory reach DDR2-1000 at 4-4-3-5 timings at 2.20V on our ASUS P5B-E motherboard. We would not recommend running this memory above 2.20V and strongly advise adherence to the maximum 2.1V listed by G.Skill. At 2.1V we could reach 4-4-3-5 timings at DDR2-950 on the same board.


GeIL introduced their Black Dragon series of product that should be shipping this quarter. The initial product will feature low latency, low voltage, 3-3-3-6 DDR2-800 1G modules that will feature extensive overclocking headroom.


Their new Ultra Plus modules are running at DDR2-1100 with 4-4-4-12 timings at 2.4V and we can expect speeds up to DDR2-1200 at 5-5-5-15 settings.


GeIL is also expanding their new value product lineup with 1GB, 2GB, and 4GB dual-channel kits. Their value DDR2-800 2GB kit features 5-5-5-15 timings at 1.8V, although with a voltage increase to 2.0V they will operate at 4-4-4-12 timings in current testing.


Team Group was showcasing a new cooling design by Thermalright for their upcoming high end modules featuring speeds above DDR2-1000. The somewhat large heatpipe/heatsink arrangement aims to provide improved memory cooling. It should also help to improve memory cooling by extending the cooling above board level into areas that are more likely to see significant airflow. The drawback of course is that the modules require quite a bit more clearance than your typical DIMMs, and many motherboard/HSF combinations will not work.


Team's Dark series was developed for entry level overclockers and gamers with the top end 1GB module featuring 4-4-4-12 timings at DDR2-800 speeds. These modules feature voltage ratings up to 2.35V on an eight layer PCB design that will easily run at 3-3-3-9 timing with 2.30V in our limited testing to date. Pricing is around $250 at this time for a 2GB kit.