Until the next great technological advance in computer memory comes along, companies are going to keep adding features to existing technology to try and set themselves apart from one another. Crucial has been an award-winning manufacturer in the system memory field for many years, mostly due to both the quality of their products and their commitment to innovation.

In this review we have one of their latest products, the Ballistix Smart Tracer 6GB Triple Channel DDR3 1600MHz kit. Last July, we were impressed by Crucial's PC3-12800 DDR3 Kit with thermal sensors, and since this kit expands on that technology I don't think we will be disappointed.



The promotional image above provides a quick look at the kit in question. What you can not see is that the LED lighting is now offered in two color combinations... blue/orange and red/green. We'll be taking a look at a blue/orange kit, but before we do that let's take a look at some information taken from the official product page on the Crucial website...

"Ballistix Tracer memory is specifically built for performance enthusiasts and case modders who want to push the performance envelope while adding flash appeal to their boxes. The Ballistix line of high-performance memory modules features advanced speed grades, low latencies, and integrated aluminum heat spreaders. And, Ballistix Tracer memory is available in variety of colors depending on technology.

DDR3 Ballistix Tracer has been updated with more LEDs (up to 32 total) with one or two rows of 12 activity-indicating LEDs along the entire top length of the module. The wider spacing and pattern moves from the center toward the outside of the module and creates some interesting light patterns and effects in your case. Eight constantly illuminated ground effects lights along the bottom edge will light up your motherboard. DDR3 Ballistix Tracer is available in classic black, as well as red, all blue or all green (PCB/heat spreader/LEDs). Show the world your true colors by picking scheme that suits your style or matches your rig."

Features and Specifications:

» Brand: Crucial
» Series: Ballistix Smart Tracer
» Model: BL3KIT25664ST1608OB
» Type: 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM
» Capacity: 6GB (3 x 2GB)
» Speed: DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800)
» Cas Latency: 8
» Timing: 8-8-8-24
» Voltage: 1.65V
» Multi-channel Kit: Triple Channel Kit
» Heat Spreader: Yes
» Features: Support Intel XMP (Extreme Memory Profile), Orange/Blue activity-indicating LEDs
» Manufacturer Warranty
   » Parts: Lifetime limited
   » Labor: Lifetime limited

Packaging:

The Ballistix Smart Tracer 6GB (3x2GB) PC3-12800 kit comes in the same dreaded clam-shell style, hermetically sealed package that Crucial has used before. While this does keep the modules very secure and protected during shipment, as well as being tamper-proof on your local stores shelves, it is quite a struggle to open from a consumer's perspective. It also makes it difficult to re-use the package in the future should you wish to store and protect those same modules. I know most folks probably throw the packaging away, but if you ever want to store them for future use or resell them you may want to keep the packaging on hand and in good shape.

With that little rant out of the way, let's get to what you came here for - an actual review. The package is exactly what you see below, featuring the standard Crucial black and yellow background with a cut-out that reveals the actual product. There is also a general description of what product is contained inside, as well as information on the lifetime warranty that lets you know that Crucial will be standing behind their product for many years to come. The reverse side of the package shows you a few pictures of the memory in action, as well as a URL to reference if you have any pre-sale questions. While not a big deal, but a toll-free number to call would be nice in case you don't have a web-capable cell phones, or you would like to speak with an actual human being.