Published: March 10, 2009 | Source: Mushkin | Author: Rich Weatherstone

Mushkin 6GB (3x2GB) XP series DDR3 PC3-12800 1600MHz Kit

Packaging & Appearance

The Mushkin packaging is basic by todays standards. It is presented in a blister style package that will afford the DDR3 the very minimum of protection against knocks and scrapes but this style of packaging does protect well against static, the biggest killer of memory. The rear of the package gives the end user basic installation and troubleshooting tips but it appears to be generic rather than specific to this kit. No where on the package is there any mention of what kit you have bought or itsÂ voltage and timings required. Only the DDR3 sticks themselves have a sticker displaying the specificationÂ which is something to bear in mind should you install the kit first before checking.

The sticks themselves are clad in an attractive black aluminium heatsink with the Mushkin logo towards one end. Sadly the PCB is green but fortunately this matches the green logo of Mushkin so they are forgiven on this occasion.

The sticks are identical on each side save for a specification sticker which displays the part number (all three sticks carry the same), the timings (7-8-7-20) and the voltage required to run at this speed (1.65v).

The business end of the heatsink features aÂ loop over effect, traditional to Muskin performance ram and appeared to be effective as the sinks barely got warm to the touch even after a couple of hours testing. Holding the heatsinks together are two bare metal clasps that straddle both sides of the heatsink. Removing this clasp is very easy but unless the stick is carefully peeled away it might tear it. Removing the heatsinks would invalidate the warranty so don’t try this at home kids!

With the heatsinks removed we can see that the method of attachment is thermal tape. This method is perhaps the most effective as it allows for varying heights of the integrated chips. The IC’s themselves are Elpida chips which are not exactly renown for being amazing overclockers with tight timings but are very durable chips that stand the test of time.