Test System
| Hardware | |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Pentium 4, 3.2 GHz512 kB L2 Cache (Northwood) |
| Motherboard | DFI PS83-BLIntel 865PE ChipsetBIOS 03/31/2003 |
| OS | Windows XP Pro 5.10.2600, Service Pack 1 |
| Benchmarks & Tests | |
| Tests | Prime95 Memory Test |
Conclusion
Our test showed that the Samsung DIMMs clearly outperformed the manufacturer's official claims. At 200 MHz as well as 233 MHz (PC3700), the DIMMs were able to work reliably in a foursome with CL 2.5-3-3-7. Even speeds of 250 MHz were no sweat with conservative timings.
The reason for this could lie in unstable production quality, meaning that Samsung might just be playing it safe with the CL3 label: this slower timing parameter always works. But we assume that the reason more likely lies with Samsung's circles of customers. Major customers and OEMs generally don't place much stock in fast timings.
But if you're faced with a decision in the store: the PC3700 modules are an interesting alternative to the often more expensive components from popular high-performance brands.
