Test Setup
For this test, we chose the best performing Intel 975X motherboard we had in house, our excellent Asus P5W DH, and paired it with a QX6700!
In order to have a good basis for comparison, we re-tested three other sets of memory we had around the lab.
Benchmarks
Software used during testing consisted of the following:
- Windows XP Professional
- NVIDIA ForceWare 84.21 drivers
- RightMark Memory Analyzer
- SiSoft Sandra 2007
- WinRAR
- Doom 3
In order to keep the testing as fair as possible, we will use the following test platform:
As is our custom for a while now, we discuss our overclocking adventures at the end of the article. However, in the results you'll see in the following pages we include overclocked benchmarks to show you what gains you might get if you also achieved similar overclocks - our test sytems were all stable at the settings shown with air cooling. The chart labels incorporate a lot of information about the test configuration. The first line shows the socket type and the model of the processor. Since all the processors shown are dual core devices, we did not specify that on the charts.
The second line shows the "FSB/HT clock rate" x "CPU multiplier" and the effective DDR memory speed. Please note that all DDR2 tests were run at 4-4-4-12 timings where possible.
Methodology
I'm doing something a bit different this time.
As I am reviewing high end "enthusiasts" memory, for this review (and mini-roundup) I will be concentrating on seeing how far I can push these DIMM's - how fast can they go with a 4-4-4-12 timing?
You may find the results surprising!
Given that the 975X is currently one of the best chipsets available, it is not surprising that we were able to obtain excellent results. What you may find surprising is just how much "headroom" these dimm's have for being pushed beyond specifications... I know I was pleased.
Ok, enough talking... let's get on with the testing!
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