Mushkin 256MB PC3500 DDR SDRAM

As far as Overclocking is concerned, the Mushkin PC3500 modules performed as well as we expect it to. From the above tests it can clearly be seen that the modules show some great Overclocking potential. Reaching FSBs over 223MHz didn’t seem to agree with any of the systems tested. This is of course not a problem caused by the memory, but the result of either the CPU or motherboard failing. We’ll be receiving a newly released nForce2 mainboard from Albatron soon, which we plan on hooking up to our prometeia system. This will open up newer boundaries for us to test these modules since it’ll negate the issue of CPU overheating. Updated test results will be posted once they’re complete.

Conclusion

Once again Mushkin seems to have produced a memory module that’s worthy of recommendation to the PC enthusiasts and Overclocking community. Our main concern was to see if this module works rock solid in its default setting, which is in fact an overclocked one. The good news is that not only do these modules work in their default setting, they even surpass them. The only real complaint I can make about these modules is the fact that they’re rated at a CAS Latency of 2.5 instead of CAS 2. This is undoubtedly due to Mushkin playing their cards safe rather than going head on with other big boys such as OCZ who already have produced PC3500 modules that are CAS 2. As our tests show however, these Mushkin modules are quite capable of operating at CAS 2-2-2 even under stressful conditions. This clearly shows the quality of the workmanship of these modules.

One of the main factors to consider when buying a product is its after-sale service and support. Past statistics have shown great customer satisfaction levels for persons who have purchased Mushkin memory. One might be tempted to take on some of the cheap offers that are found on the net; however these offers are most often given out by dodgy manufactures. Once you purchase a module from them, they’ll effectively seize to exist from then on. What’s more, you’re never guaranteed of the quality of the product. You can be assured of getting value for money when products are purchased by reputed manufactures. The competition is quite fierce in this market, as a result you won’t see considerable fluctuations is price between comparable products of reputed manufactures.

Overall the Mushkin PC3500 modules performed well above what we expected from them. Unfortunately we weren’t able to really push our CPUs to the limit. Once we get to the point of testing them on our prometeia system updated test results will be posted. Price wise, the 256MB PC3500 module is sold at US$89 which is quite reasonable. You might find slightly cheaper offerings by other manufactures, however for that extra cost you’re assured of the product’s quality and after sales support if any is needed.