I am no expert on the subject but I do know that old Nintendo consoles used the Hard Gold option on Game PCB's for durability. I mean it makes sense, think about how many times we would insert and remove a game in a old NES for example. Not to mention the obligatory blow into the connector which I am sure would have promptly corroded a non Hard Gold surface finish. (Yummy! We all did it!)
Of course this does not apply to RAM that will spend most of its life connected and relatively untouched.
This is indeed a VERY interesting subject and now I must continue to read and learn! The site that Unknown_K sent was extremely informative. Thank you for sharing that!
You guys (and possibly Gals) are a great plethora of information!
In case anyone wants a bit more info on the game side:
Follow me on Twitter @db_electronics There are many important aspects to consider when assessing the quality of a reproduction or modern release game cartridge. Shell, label, beveled edge, chamfer, surface finish, etc... are all important things to consider. To the untrained eye all PCBs may at f
www.retrorgb.com