Mushkin HP3 10666 DDR3 Memory Review

Introduction:

Moore's Law states that process improvements will happen roughly every eighteen to twenty four months for electronic components. Well, it's that time again! With DDR2 on the way out, DDR3 is going to be used on the next wave of motherboards. To ride that wave, Mushkin has jumped into the waters with its new HP3-10666 modules that feature enhanced latencies of 6-7-6-18, operation at 1.6 volts and Frostbyte technology to cool the modules. This memory kit consists of two 1 gigabyte modules as a matched set with the signature blue heatspreaders of Mushkin's HP line of modules. The modules are specified to run at a speed of 1333MHz. Let's see if the increased memory speeds positively impact system performance.

"Founded in 1994, Mushkin is best known for producing “Enhanced” memory modules. Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains in Denver, Colorado Mushkin provides performance enhanced computer products to users worldwide. Exceptional quality, enhanced performance and unparalleled customer support are what make Mushkin products the best in the industry."

Closer Look:

The memory comes shipped to the consumer in a clamshell enclosure. The modules are indexed into the enclosure and are held tightly in place to prevent any damage during shipment. Inside the enclosure are the two modules as well as the Mushkin product card. The product card shows the company logo on the front and installation and troubleshooting tips on the rear.

These new modules feature reduced latencies of 6-7-6-18. 1.6v to 1.7v is the voltage required by these modules to operate at the frequency specified. The blue heatspreaders identify these modules as the HP series of modules.

These modules feature Mushkin's patented Frostbyte technology to keep the RAM cool. The heatspreaders are kept in contact with the memory modules by thermal tape. The tape does not appear to have come loose from any of the modules. Something I have seen on lower grade modules, but not on these.

Now that you have seen the modules, the next logical step is to get them installed!