adding RAM

[Guest]

Hi, All. I'm running a Dell Dimension with WinXP SP2, 512 MB DDR SDRAM, 2.8
GHz P-IV. Here's my question. As I understand it, DIMMs must be installed in
pairs, i.e., I can't pair up a 128MB stick with a 256 MB stick. My machine
currently has two 256 MB sticks. I want to add another 512 as I plan on doing
a lot of DVD burning in the future. Must I add another two 256s, or can I
dump in one 512 MB stick?
Thanks.
Chuck

 

[R. McCarty]

What you are referring to is called "Dual-Channel" RAM configuration.
Newer motherboards have 4 slots, where two each are paired. If you
configure your RAM as 3 Sticks the machine won't be able to run in a
Dual-Channel mode. I'd opt for 2 more 256's (Same Vendor brand &
Lot, if possible) to maintain Dual-Channel operating mode. Be sure to
purchase matching speed rated RAM (DDR2700, etc...)

 

[Bruce Chambers]

Hi, All. I'm running a Dell Dimension with WinXP SP2, 512 MB DDR SDRAM, 2.8
GHz P-IV. Here's my question. As I understand it, DIMMs must be installed in
pairs, i.e., I can't pair up a 128MB stick with a 256 MB stick. My machine
currently has two 256 MB sticks. I want to add another 512 as I plan on doing
a lot of DVD burning in the future. Must I add another two 256s, or can I
dump in one 512 MB stick?
Thanks.
Chuck

The correct answer varies from specific motherboard to motherboard.

It is absolutely essential that any new RAM module(s) be fully
compatible with both the motherboard and/or any other RAM module(s)
already in the system. Additionally, there are sometimes jumper
switches on older motherboards that need to be reset for new RAM
configurations. Consult your motherboard's manual or the manufacturer's
web site for specific instructions and compatibility requirements.

If you cannot lay your hands upon the computer's manual and the
manufacturer doesn't provide a support web site, you can use these
utilities to help determine the correct type of RAM needed:

SiSoft's Sandra
http://www.sisoftware.co.uk/index.php?dir=&location=sware_dl&lang=en

Belarc Advisor
http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

Unlimited Possibilities' AIDA32
http://forum.aumha.org/overflow/aida32.zip

Lavalys' Everest Home
http://www.lavalys.com/products/overview.php?pid=1&lang=en

Also, Crucial Memory's web site (www.crucial.com) has a database
to help to find the right RAM for your specific make and model
computer and/or motherboard.


--

Bruce Chambers

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[Jim]

Hi, All. I'm running a Dell Dimension with WinXP SP2, 512 MB DDR SDRAM,
2.8
GHz P-IV. Here's my question. As I understand it, DIMMs must be installed
in
pairs, i.e., I can't pair up a 128MB stick with a 256 MB stick. My machine
currently has two 256 MB sticks. I want to add another 512 as I plan on
doing
a lot of DVD burning in the future. Must I add another two 256s, or can I
dump in one 512 MB stick?
Thanks.
Chuck

Sometimes yes sometimes no. The manual for your computer tells how to
install memory modules in your computer.

For example, memory module replacements or additions for my Dell 4600 are
discussed on pages 95 and 96 of the Owner's Manual.

Dell Support should have information for your particular model (Dimension by
itself is not definitive).

Jim