Today I will be upgrading a computer system from 2GB to 4GB, but I will also be testing the same PC using the original 2GB OCZ PC2-6400 and comparing it to the Crucial Ballistix PC2-6400 2GB LED kit. The original OCZ memory that is already in the PC is excellent memory and it will be very interesting to see how the Crucial Ballistix compares.
The memory modules are each covered by a heat spreader with LEDs across the top and under the heat spreader near the connection pins. When the memory is installed and the computer is running, the modules emit a blue glow around their base and the tops of each are illuminated with yellow and red LEDs that flash slowly in a pattern. The effect is rather impressive and very futuristic looking. But flashing lights aside, how does the memory perform? Read on to find out the results of the head-to-head comparison.
The installation of memory is one of the easiest upgrades you can perform on a computer internally. However, you should still take precaution not to discharge static into the memory or other parts inside the computer. The only reason I am even mentioning the installation is because:
90% of the memory that is bad right out of the package is bad because it was hit with a static discharge.
Installing memory with heat spreaders can be slightly more difficult than memory without them.
I did have to play with the fit getting the memory into the slot but it did fit and solidly once seated properly. When installing DDR2 memory, you simply line up the pins and insert it straight down into the memory slot with a decent amount of pressure to make the end clips snap closed. You have to be careful not to let the memory lean to one side or the other while you are pushing it down or it could slip and you will end up with a broken memory slot or a broken module or both. Installation should not take more than 5 minutes from start to finish.
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