Introduction

With the introduction to P55 it seems we have taken a slight step backwards to the trusty Dual Channel Memory interface. Lets take a moment to discuss that though. Dual channel means only 2 matching sticks vs 3, cheaper prices for the cheaper platform, matching and leading the competition, and quite possibly more overclocking headroom. These are just a few things that come along with the well known interface. A look into i5 tells us that we have an IMC to deal with. Good or bad? A bit of both but it leans more into good. Because of this we can share the benefit of higher speed memory and have more overclocking headroom. Overclocking to higher frequencies possibly matches the bigger brothers triple channel interface. Onto the ram though.

Just a bit of information, the dual channel interface has alot of DDR3 modules readily availible already. It is up to the consumer to decide which DDR3 he or she must purchase for their specific rig. Older modules use a voltage of 1.8v and upwards. You absolutely must be careful because if you have an i5/i7 (1156) platform running your ram at these volts can fry your CPU's memory controller. With that being said, you must look for kits rated for 1.65v or lower. Today, G.Skill has granted us with a nice kit that is rated at 1.5v, The Ripjaw 1333 1.5v designed for i5/i7 rigs on the 1156 platform.