AMD 8GB DDR3-1600 Performance Edition Memory Kit Review - PAGE 1

At first glance, AMD seems to be travelling a strange path in selling branded memory if one assumes the goal was to diversify its market. With memory tightly linked to the processor, having the sticks labeled AMD risks giving the impression that they aren't compatible with systems already using a competiting manufacturer's processor. Attempting market diversification through branded memory therefore won't make much sense for AMD if its processor sales are already slowing down, in turn curbing enthusiasm for the memory in turn.

Indeed, the more logical reason for AMD to start selling its own memory is to drive prices of the platform down. It can influence the prices and get away with a cheaper system as a whole. Additionally, the sticks are tested on an AMD platform so they are guaranteed to run at the advertised frequency and latencies compared to many other sticks which are tested on the competitor's platform, and in some cases might not run at their rated speed due to slightly different memory controller characteristics.

AMD memory for now consists of three lineups: the Entertainment, Performance and Radeon Editions, each having different ratings and of course different price points. The one tested today is the 1600MHz Performance Edition, which in fact is manufactured by Patriot Memory. The AMD name might attract customers that would otherwise not be familiar with buying from the latter manufacturer.

Specifications are courtesy of AMD @ http://www.amd.com/us/products/technologies/radeon-memory/Pages/system-memory.aspx#2