14 DAY TRIAL // There are a great many memory products on sale across the world, but not many of them can truly claim to be among the elite when it comes to gaming performance. In fact, in order to be classified as such, a memory module or kit needs to have not only a high capacity, but fast timings and, of course, a high frequency. Only products that meet these high requirements can hope to find their way inside high-end gaming rigs, and the easiest way to find something good enough is to check whether or not it boasts the XMP certification.
The Intel Extreme Memory Profile (XMP) certification is the standard that high-end parts have to meet in order to truly be considered of the highest level. Some of the latest to receive such a praise are the un-priced aXeRam modules, developed by Transcend and unleashed at the beginning of the month.
Each aXeRam memory module is built out of 128Mx8 high-quality DDR3 FBGA chips and are sold as part of memory kits. Options include dual-channel, 4GB kits with frequencies of 1600MHz (8-8-8-24 timings), and 2000MHz (9-9-9-24). Additionally, Transcend has made available a triple-channel, 6GB kit that also operates at 2000MHz. Basically, the XMP badge confirms Transcend's initial statement that the kits “are designed to meet the strict RAM requirements of gamers and enthusiasts.”
Of course, as it is the case with most, if not all, high-end DDR3 modules, Transcend outfitted its aXeRam with all the necessary aluminum heatspreaders. These accessories may not be necessary to keep the components alive under normal conditions, but they will definitely earn their keep in case of overclocking. As for compatibility, the company made a point of testing each pair (or team of three) of modules on motherboards like ASUS P7P55D PREMIUM, ASUS P7P55D DELUXE, Gigabyte GA-P55A-UD4P and MSI P55-GD85.