memory upgrading

[ben]

currently i have a 128mb ddr 266mhz pc2100 memory 184 pin
installed, i have an identical slot next to the installed
memory card. i have spotted a 256mb ddr 266mhz pc2100 184
pin card on amazon, and was wondering if i could use both
cards together to make 384mb in total, or would they not
be compatable? thanks in advance Ben

 

[Doug Knox MS-MVP]

You can try. If the memory is from the same manufacturer, you have a better chance of it working. Otherwise, there might be slight differences that can cause problems.

 

[Roy]

This will work ok. Its not an ideal situation as both sticks of ram should
be the same size, but I have done similar and have had no problems

 

[Rick \Nutcase\ Rogers]

Hi Ben,

I would purchase it in any case. If it does not work well with the existing
128 stick, then use the 256 solo - your memory capacity would still be
doubled. WinXP on only 128MB is like molasses in the winter.

--
Best of Luck,

Rick Rogers, aka "Nutcase" - Microsoft MVP

Associate Expert - WindowsXP Expert Zone

Windows help - www.rickrogers.org

 

[Unknown]

Why having both sticks the same size makes it ideal? How in this case do you
define ideal?

 

[Ron Martell]

This will work ok. Its not an ideal situation as both sticks of ram should
be the same size, but I have done similar and have had no problems

Not quite correct.

Mixed RAM module sizes are not a problem, provided the specifications
are the same..

What can and does cause problems is when the RAM modules are from
different manufacturers, or even from the same manufacturer but
different production lots. In these instances there can be
differences in the material composition and/or the physical layout of
the RAM chips. These differences can affect the strength and/or the
timing of the signals returned from the RAM and Windows is sensitive
to these differences.


Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca

"The reason computer chips are so small is computers don't eat much."

 

[stevev]

I have 384 total (256 + 128)on an XP Home box and it runs fine. Both are
from the same maker however.

Ram is still cheap...why not try to identify your current memory and buy the
same brand and quality. That way you're almost guaranteed compatibility.

Good luck.