Category: RAM
Manufacturer: Corsair
Product: TWINX2048-3500LLPRO
Price: $275.00

Once again we visit the world of RAM, and each successive time we attempt to shed a bit of light into one of the most misunderstood and overlooked parts of the computer. Last time we examined the benefits of all the confusing rating schemes companies used and found some interesting results. This time we take a closer look at a particular 2GB dual-channel memory kit and examine the features it brings to the table.

About a month ago, Corsair gave us their 2x1GB PC3500 LL Pro RAM kit to test. The LL stands for low latency, and this pair doesn’t disappoint. The RAM comes in fairly generic, flat plastic packaging, prominently displaying the two sticks of memory in their heat spreaders as well as advertising the features of the RAM. Once out the package, the first thing we noticed is how heavy the individual sticks are. This is probably due to the fact that they have unusually large heat spreaders. On top is one of the Pro series’ main selling points: A row of activity LEDs that light up, showing if the RAM is being used and how heavily it is being used. Though naturally this functionality is frivolous, it adds a bit of flair to an otherwise completely boring computer part. The LEDs add a bit to the width of the DIMMs, so we were concerned that there may not be enough clearance between the sticks to place them in neighboring slots on our motherboard. These concerns proved to be unfounded, as the modules fit, albeit tightly. After installing the DIMMS it was time to fire up the computer and test them out. As soon as the system POSTs, the LEDs on the DIMMs spring to life, pulsating with every information transfer to the CPU or to the hard drives. It’s really an attention grabber that anyone looking for a flashy setup would love.