Introduction
CORSAIR TWINX (2x 256MB XMS3200LL) MEMORY KIT REVIEW
If you've read my recent RAM reviews, you'll know just how much emphasis I put on not just the basic rated speed but also the timings at which the particular modules are rated to run at. Running at PC3200+ speeds is all fine and well, but the advantages of faster system memory, if your motherboard and processor can make full use of it, can be eroded by having to run relatively weak timings. We've seen memory bandwidth-dependent benchmarks benefit greatly not only from the obvious increase in speed that faster system RAM gives you, but also from running aggressive associated timings (thereby reducing the latency of the module).
Running low latency modules ensures that modules' super-fast speeds are fully exploited. Cutting down on the latency, especially with respect to CAS ratings, can effectively produce system changes that would normally be reserved for the next memory speed up. The trouble, though, is how to balance the tricky aspects of pure memory speed against the need for super-low (aggressive, low latency timings). Further, with the rise of dual-channel chipsets that can readily take high-speed modules for both AMD and Intel platforms, the need for fast, low latency and compatible modules has never been greater. Increased compatibility in a non-dual-channel environment would certainly help, too, as running potentially 1GHz of PC3200+ memory (2x 512MB) is inherently difficult with most chipsets. Anything to make that task easier would be appreciated by the enthusiast.
Can you see where I'm going with this ?. The need for fast, stable, low latency memory that's qualified to work in pairs with the new-fangled dual-channel chipsets is a reasonable premise to base a product on. Enter Corsair with their TWINX memory kits. They promise to do exactly that. Let's take a closer look at this memory solution from the high-speed experts.
