Significance of "Gerber reference Designs" in DDR400 memory modules.

[Scarlett]

I want to buy two 512MB modules of Samsung PC3200 DDR400 memory to run in dual channel mode on my Asus P4P800 Deluxe motherboard. I can buy the following model for a total of $120: M368L6423FTN-CCC. The chip component part number is K4H560838F-TCCC. This memory was produced in the 39th week of 2004. The modules also offer the information that they are "SPD rev. 1" and that none of the "Gerber reference designs were used on this assembly."

I understand that the Gerber reference designs are provided as foundations for a module PCB; however, I do not know whether reference design for R/C A, B, C, or None is the best, i.e., what is the significance of the reference designs in the manufacturing process, or is there any?

I need to make a fairly quick decision on whether to buy the memory, so an early reply will be most appreciated.

Many thanks!

Scarlett

[kenja]

I'd say, go ahead and buy the dimms. Samsung has a good reputation and I see M368L6423FTN-CCC is a genuine Samsung part number.

My guess about the Gerber note: Samsung provides reference designs in Gerber file format for any manufacturer that wants to buy their chips, for assembly in non-Samsung PCBs.

Samsung is saying their own assemblies are different from any third party products (and perhaps contain proprietary goodness). :)

[Scarlett]

Thanks for the response, Kenja. I have bought the memory, and I have done some research on it, trying to find out if it is compatible with my Asus P4P800 Deluxe motherboard. However, the Samsung site shows only Intel boards as being compatible. I hope I haven't made a mistake. All of the specifications for the RAM are compatible with my board, so I probably will just have to try it and see what happens.

Thanks again!

Scarlett

[kenja]

Your board has the Intel 865PE Springdale chipset, so things "should" work out fine.

I say should, because even with the top brands incompatibilities sometimes occur.

[Scarlett]

Thanks again, Kenja. I got the memory in the mail today, and it looks great--brand new, produced in late 2004 (44th week)--but I won't know how it performs until I get my computer built. Now all I need is a better video card than my Power Color Radeon 9200SE 128MB, and I will be ready to assemble it!

I will let you know how it works out.

Many thanks,

Scarlett