Date: April 3rd, 2008
Article by: Nathan Glentworth (Owner / Head Editor)
Product was submitted by: Crucial <--SHOP FOR OTHER BRANDS OF DDR2 MEMORY HERE
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS & FEATURES (From Crucial)
Ballistix Tracer memory is specifically built for performance enthusiasts and case modders who want to push the performance envelope while adding flash appeal to their boxes. The Ballistix line of high-performance memory modules features advanced speed grades, low latencies, and integrated aluminum heat spreaders. Ballistix Tracer memory features a black PCB, black integrated heat spreaders, and one or two rows of eight "chasing" red and green LEDs atop the module, circulating in a random pattern based on memory utilization. A custom-designed circuit relays bus activity to the LEDs, allowing them to accurately reflect usage of each memory module. In addition, eight blue ground effects LEDs emit a constant glow near the pins.
For around US$100 or less, you will receive the following.
Once the purchase is made, you will get a shipping bag in the mail that has this small box which contains the two memory dimms wrapped in separate static proof bags and accompanied with a small warranty and installation pamphlet. To be honest, I prefer this method over the bubble packaging.
Once out of their respective packaging, Crucial's Ballistix Tracer memory looks pretty well like any other high end memory on the market. It has a light aluminum heatspreader held in two places with clips and incorporates a matching black PCB. Although simple, it does look surprisingly good. But the difference between the standard Ballistix and the Ballistix Tracer is quite noticeable.
In each memory stick is a bank of activity LEDs which illuminate according to the activity of the computer. The harder the memory is working, the more active it becomes. Along with the activity LEDs, you have bright blue LED's pointing down to illuminate the lower portion of the memory where it inserts into the motherboard. All said and done, it makes for a rather interesting light show.
The lighting doesn't seem to follow any certain pattern, but do give a windowed case an interesting visual appeal. But to be honest, if you are going to be using a standard case, just get the standard Ballistix version without the LEDs to save money. But overall, this memory would really stand out in a windowed case at a Lanparty.
But let's get to the real meat of the review and see how this memory performs.
