Introduction

We would like to thank Crucial for supplying the review sample.

Snipplet from the Crucial "About Page":

The Crucial Story
The Crucial story starts with Micron Technology, Inc., one of the largest dynamic random access memory (DRAM) manufacturers in the world and the only one based in the U.S. Headquartered in Boise, Idaho, Micron manufactures DRAM chips and assembles them into high-quality memory modules for sale to original equipment manufacturers ("OEMs") worldwide.

For nearly three decades, Micron has learned that when you make some of the very best memory in the world, lots of companies want it, from computer makers to wireless device manufacturers to printer producers. (And we're really glad that they do!)
But then Micron asked, well, what about the end user? What about the everyday folks who want to upgrade their existing systems with OEM-quality memory — the home desktop user, the IT network guy, the student notebook user? Why don't we offer our memory to the public, at factory-direct pricing?

So in 1996, Micron responded to a growing demand for high-quality memory upgrades among end users who wanted the best possible performance from their systems. Micron launched Crucial Technology in September of that year, and for the first time, end users had the opportunity to buy directly from the manufacturer the same memory modules bought by the world's major OEMs for original installation in their systems.
Having a direct sales division focused on selling Micron's DRAM to the public was apparently an idea whose time had come, and 10 successful years later, we have expanded our product line to include flash cards and readers, and USB flash drives.
Why is Crucial thriving? We offer our customers a number of clear advantages over our competitors.

From the manufacturer Crucial:

• Module Size: 2GB kit (1GBx2)
• Package: Ballistix 240-pin DIMM
• Feature: DDR3 PC3-12800
• Specs: DDR3 PC3-12800 • 8-8-8-24 • Unbuffered • NON-ECC • DDR3-1600 • 1.8V • 128Meg x 64

Packaging

Crucial uses some very unique, but plain cardboard box. There is no label as to what is inside the package. I am not sure how the shipping process works to get you the right parts. The package is sealed with a blue sticker, which lets you know to take a look at their website for further help and support. The memory itself is held in place by cardboard within the package.


The DIMMs have been sealed within anti-static bags. You better have some scissors at your disposal to gain access. The manual is text only, so if this is your first time installing memory, be careful, especially as this is DDR3.

A Closer Look

The Ballistix DDR3 DIMMs utilize thin aluminum heatspreaders, which look identical on both sides. They are held in place by thermal tape, so you should not pull them off, as this will certainly void your warranty. The yellow looks great and should be a nice eye catcher.


Crucial has decided to keep the Ballistix logo and simply add "DDR3" next to it, to point out the fact, that you are looking at the new generation of system memory.


There are two stickers on the DIMMs. Neither of them clearly state any rated speed or CL setting. You better remember what the memory is rated for, as the SPD programming is different than what it is supposed to run at, but more on that later.


Crucial is a brand from Micron and the PCB used is black. Upon closer inspection you will find two markings on either end. One is "LEVIN" while the other one is made up of 4 numbers followed by the letter C.