Test Setup

Performance & Overclocking

As soon as the memory is installed, we run CPU-Z. The SPD programming is very relaxed and on the safe side. While the memory is rated for 1600 MHz CL7, the SPD maxes out at 1333 MHz CL9.

The first benchmark run was done at the intended setting. The 1.8V seems to be right on the mark. Getting a higher speed also means raising the voltage. Before we do that, the memory was tested using 1.5V at CL7. This is the default voltage for DDR3. With this much power, the X-Series memory manages 717 MHz (DDR3-1434). At a full 2.0V, the memory breaks the 1800 MHz mark and reaches 1834 MHz. This is certainly a very good overclock of almost 15%.

Tightening the timings is the next step. These were set to CL6, then CL5. The X-Series can run at 1600 MHz CL6-6-6-18 and even beyond that using 2.0V. A-Data has clearly chosen to go with slighly more relaxed timings and lower voltage. This is certainly a smart move to expand the possible user base of such a product.

Lowering the timings to CL5 the memory almost manages 1400 MHz at 2.0V. The X-Series beats DDR2 memory in every aspect. You will never manage these speeds at these CL ratings with the second generation DDR memory.








Our sample scales very well with voltage, but seems to reach the limit at 918 MHz, as even CL8 or CL9 did not change that. The Mainboard can do around 970 MHz though, its maximum is 485 MHz FSB. The CL8 has been added for reference only, as you can reach the maximum speed with CL7 as well. Consider that these numbers reflect only the results of our individual kit, so your milage may vary!