Memory backward-compatability

[SANTANDER]

My motherboard support PC2700 (DDR333) DDR DIMM. I want extend memory.

Right memory is 1 GB DIMM 184-PIN DDR 333 MHz / PC2700 - CL2.5
(KVR333X64C25/1G)

But it not aaailable, and retailer say that it possible use the 1GB 400Mhz
PC3200 as it should be compatible. Can there be any problems, drawbacks or
other issues with backward-compatability?

 

[SingaporeWebDesign]

Hello,

Some of our systems are using DDR400 RAM on DDR333 boards and have not had
any issues.

Drawback is that you will not be utilising the full potential of the DDR400
RAM.

--
Singapore Website Design
http://www.bootstrike.com/Webdesign/
Singapore Web Hosting
http://www.bootstrike.com/WinXP/faq.html
Windows XP FAQ

 

[Ron Martell]

My motherboard support PC2700 (DDR333) DDR DIMM. I want extend memory.

Right memory is 1 GB DIMM 184-PIN DDR 333 MHz / PC2700 - CL2.5
(KVR333X64C25/1G)

But it not aaailable, and retailer say that it possible use the 1GB 400Mhz
PC3200 as it should be compatible. Can there be any problems, drawbacks or
other issues with backward-compatability?

Yes, PC3200 memory will automatically slow down and run at PC2700
speed if that is what your motherboard supports.

However you should be able to order an exact match for your existing
module from Kingston Technology.
http://www.ec.kingston.com/ecom/configurator/PartsInfo.asp?ktcpartno=KVR333X64C25/1G

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP (1997 - 2008)
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca
Syberfix Remote Computer Repair

"Anyone who thinks that they are too small to make a difference
has never been in bed with a mosquito."

 

[SANTANDER]

Yes, PC3200 memory will automatically slow down and run at PC2700
speed if that is what your motherboard supports.

However you should be able to order an exact match for your existing
module from Kingston Technology.
http://www.ec.kingston.com/ecom/configurator/PartsInfo.asp?ktcpartno=KVR333X64C25/1G

 

[Ron Martell]

The thing is also that PC3200 memory is a new and more cheeper memory.

Best Regards

There is also a risk that it may not be compatible with your existing
PC2700 module. RAM of different speed ratings, and especially if it
is also from a different manufacturer, can have internal differences
in the material composition and/or physical layout of the memory
chips. These differences can affect the both the strength and timing
of the signals returned from the RAM and Windows is sensitive to these
differences. So you may discover that the computer will operate
without errors when either a PC2700 or a PC3200 module is installed by
itself but that there are problems, possibly including BSOD errors,
when both a PC2700 and a PC3200 module are installed at the same time.

It doesn't always happen, but it does happen often enough that you
need to be aware of the risk.

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP (1997 - 2008)
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca
Syberfix Remote Computer Repair

"Anyone who thinks that they are too small to make a difference
has never been in bed with a mosquito."

 

[vision]

There is also a risk that it may not be compatible with your existing
PC2700 module. RAM of different speed ratings, and especially if it
is also from a different manufacturer, can have internal differences
in the material composition and/or physical layout of the memory
chips. These differences can affect the both the strength and timing
of the signals returned from the RAM and Windows is sensitive to these
differences. So you may discover that the computer will operate
without errors when either a PC2700 or a PC3200 module is installed by
itself but that there are problems, possibly including BSOD errors,
when both a PC2700 and a PC3200 module are installed at the same time.

It doesn't always happen, but it does happen often enough that you
need to be aware of the risk.

Good luck

Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada

-----------------

Yes, it is substantial moment. But I plan install only one type of modules,
PC2700 or PC3200, do not together. The other question: motherboard have two
memory slots, currently 2 x 256MB DIMM installed. I want install 1GB Stick.
Does it make sense to leave one 256MB stick, so I get 1280MB total? Or
non-symmetric sticks is not recommended?


Best Regards,