XP 32-Bit RAM based question

[Max2559]

Hi,

I'm running xp32bit and I have got Crossfired X1900XTs. I would like to add some more system RAM, but I know windows xp32bit can only have 4GB Max (Including Graphics mem). SO - My graphics cards will take up 1GB as they are both 512MB cards. (Yes Yes I know they are old Skool but I like them).

Does this mean that I can have another 3GB of System RAM?

I have 2x1GB DDR2 800Mhz 4,4,4,12 Geil already - so should I get 2x512MB of the same stuff so that it can continue to run in dual channel mode?

Can Dual channel mode run if the RAM sticks are diff sizes? (I know they have to go into the correct slots ... usually one space apart... So it would be 512, 1GB, 512, 1GB in plan view). - Sorry badly described.


If you can let me know if;

a) - You think it's worth it,
b) - About the Dual Channel Mode with different size ram sticks.
c) - I can get 2x1 GB of the same RAM for cheap... will putting this in have a negative effect on my crossfire performance?

My system is:

e6600 (@3.4)
GA965p-DS4,
2x x1900xt
2GB Geil DDR2
600W Sparkle PSU
2x 80GB Spin Point SATA


Any advice is always apreciated!
Cheers.
Max

 

[rgsaunders]

Get 2 more sticks of the same thing you have now, the system will run better on a symmetrical ram configuration. This should have no effect on your crossfire performance. Although a 32 bit OS can only address 4GB in theory, and less when system components take some of the address space, having the extra ram does not adversely affect things. My system is a dual boot setup with Vista32/Vista64 with 8GB ram, no problems.

 

[Corporate_goon]

Given the price of RAM, it doesn't make sense to get 2x512 - get 2x1GB and just live with 1GB being "missing" until you upgrade to a 64bit operating system.

 

[royalcrown]

I'd go with goon on this.

 

[Max2559]

Thanks for the advice. I'll get another 2 GB of Geil. Cheers!