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How do i do dual-channel with only 2 RAM slots?

Tags:
  • Memory
  • Single Channel
  • PC3
  • RAM
  • 8GB
  • 1333
  • DIMM
  • 4GB
  • Gigabyte
  • Motherboards
  • 1600
  • Dual Channel
  • GB
Last response: in Memory
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October 10, 2014 1:30:07 PM

So i bought a pre-built PC recently, that came with 4GB of RAM. I stupidly assumed that it would have 4 RAM slots, and was dissapointed when i opened it up. One of the sticks was occupied already (obviously) yet i still have the one free slot. Since i can't do Dual-channel, what is my best option for the fastest setup?

Thanks,

More about : dual channel ram slots

a b } Memory
a c 90 V Motherboard
October 10, 2014 1:37:03 PM

You can buy a pair of matched RAM sticks to replace the existing RAM.
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October 10, 2014 1:38:42 PM

ThatVietGuy said:
You can buy a pair of matched RAM sticks to replace the existing RAM.


Would it be Dual-Channel THEN? Or not? I know Dual Channel is not neccessary, but i hear it's the fastest option.
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Related resources
a b } Memory
a c 90 V Motherboard
October 10, 2014 1:39:32 PM

If you're running both channels with RAM then yes it's dual channel - that's what dual channel means...
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a c 114 } Memory
a c 281 V Motherboard
October 10, 2014 1:40:41 PM

2 slots will run in dual channel mode if you populate each slot with a ram stick.
You can buy a second 4gb stick that has the same specs and it is likely to work properly.
If you require a guarantee, buy a matched 2 stick kit of supported ram.

But.. do not worry about speed. It really matters little. 2-3%?
It is more important to have sufficient ram.

That is the problem with pre-builts.
You will also find that your psu is a cheap one that will not support a good graphics card.
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October 10, 2014 2:45:31 PM

ThatVietGuy said:
If you're running both channels with RAM then yes it's dual channel - that's what dual channel means...


but one is green, and one is black. so diferent channels right?
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October 10, 2014 6:57:41 PM

ThatVietGuy said:
If you're running both channels with RAM then yes it's dual channel - that's what dual channel means...


Well i would prefer to go as low a price as possible, and since it already has one 4gb stick in there SK hynix, could i just buy the same stick and add it since it's the same brand/model?
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October 10, 2014 6:58:56 PM

geofelt said:
2 slots will run in dual channel mode if you populate each slot with a ram stick.
You can buy a second 4gb stick that has the same specs and it is likely to work properly.
If you require a guarantee, buy a matched 2 stick kit of supported ram.

But.. do not worry about speed. It really matters little. 2-3%?
It is more important to have sufficient ram.

That is the problem with pre-builts.
You will also find that your psu is a cheap one that will not support a good graphics card.


That's why i'm upgrading the PSU to the Corsair TX650 also.
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