OCZ 2x1GB DDR3 PC3-12800 Platinum EB Review

Memory Overview:

Memory is not what you would call an elaborate piece of computer hardware. There is no extensive visible layout of resistors, capacitors, ICs, and other components like we see with a motherboard or graphics card. Instead, all we are presented with to look at is the heatspreader that covers the relatively simple PCB. Despite this lack of complexity, a few photos of the modules are still necessary to discuss a few features before we get into the installation of the memory.


A standard OCZ specifications sticker is present on the left side of each module identifying exactly what type of memory it is including the rated timings and full part number. Notice here how the timings are listed as 7-6-6-24 while on the web site OCZ states these modules are rated for 7-6-6-20. Perhaps a last minute adjustment to the specifications was made after the labels were already produced. The prominent feature of the module exterior is the platinum XTC heatspreader and the large Z located front and center. As mentioned earlier, this design is certainly not new but remains current and fresh providing a very nice esthetic presentation to the memory.


Another feature to note about the OCZ Platinum heatspreader is that there is plenty of access to brush the warm air influenced by the memory away. The top of the module is not enclosed, trapping heat in and because of this, the height of the module including the heatspreader is no more than a standard stick of RAM. The low profile footprint of the XTC heatspreader has led to hassle free installation of OCZ memory for a long time and that trend will certainly continue with these modules.


Earlier in the specifications section it was outlined that the density of the Micron D9GTR ICs allowed for 1GB modules to be produced on a single side of eight banks. Here, we see that in the flesh with only one side of the modules containing ICs. The backside of the memory is going to be pretty much void of any hardware and simply provides a flat surface for the rear heatspreader to be attached to for esthetic reasons. The PCB used with these modules is made by Brain Power which is typical of pretty much all OCZ performance memory since the early DDR days. Brain Power produces high quality PCBs for memory manufacturers to build off of and you will never hear any enthusiasts complain about the quality. These PCBs are labeled B63URCA 0.71 but no further information could be found aside for the fact that OCZ is not the only manufacturer using this PCB for their DDR3.