Upgrade my memory...??

[gilme]

Hi all...

I'm interested in upgrading my RAM memory...

Hardware+Software:
---------------------------
Intel P4 2.6Ghz Processor
256 MB RAM
ASUS P4P800 Motherboard
Windows XP SP2


Which memory cards does my motherboard support?
I have no clue, and after fluttering the manual, I got even more confused.
Please someone who's well-known in the area- please mention which and how much can I upgrade...

THANX...!!

 

[GhislainG]

That motherboard uses DDR PC2700 or PC3200 memory modules that are relatively expensive. You can always visit a site like http://shop.crucial.com/1/5/p4p800-memory, select your motherboard and you'll know what modules will work. For optimal performance, always buy modules in pairs.

 

[gilme]

Thanx alot...........

Is 2x256MB really faster than 1x512MB?
If it is it's a new discovery for me..

Also- PC3200 is better than PC2700? Is it noticeable?
I wanna buy something that will last for few months until i'll get a new PC.

 

[jitpublisher]

Thanx alot...........

Is 2x256MB really faster than 1x512MB?
If it is it's a new discovery for me..

Also- PC3200 is better than PC2700? Is it noticeable?
I wanna buy something that will last for few months until i'll get a new PC.

The reason it is faster is because memory must be installed in pairs to work in dual channel mode (faster). If you put in odd numbers of sticks, or odd sizes of sticks, your memory cannot work in dual channel mode. It is not a huge difference in speed, and most people not knowing any better will never notice the difference. But if you want to be sure you are getting the best possible performance from your memory, always install memory in identical pairs.

 

[gilme]

So, If I have now only one 256MB 400Mhz ,

I need to get the exact same ? (for better performance)
Does it matter if I get 512MB ?

 

[jitpublisher]

If it were me, this is what I would do.
I get another 256meg stick of 400mhz memory to match what you have, insert it into the correct corresponding slot for dual channel operation with your first stick. (check your motherboard manual)
Buy another set of 2x512meg 400mhz memory and insert them into the other 2 slots.
Make sure the all the memory you buy matches the voltage and timings of the memory you have now. Buy even the same brand if it is possible.
You can download CPUZ (very small program) to find out the specs of your current memory.
You would then have 1.5gig of memory all running in dual channel mode.
Memory is really cheap, you should be able to this for less than $30.
Will make a huge difference over the single 256 meg you have now.

 

[gilme]

Hmm........ Downloaded CPU-Z and its telling me I have:

256MB DDR PC3200 200Mhz 2.5V
# Channels - Single

Will 400Mhz work OK with the current one ?
Is it going to be considered as 2 channels ?

 

[jeteryankees22]

just get another 256 or 512 single stick and you said you were upgrading in a month? Just deal for a few months then build a C2D/Q or core i7...

 

[jitpublisher]

Hmm........ Downloaded CPU-Z and its telling me I have:

256MB DDR PC3200 200Mhz 2.5V
# Channels - Single

Will 400Mhz work OK with the current one ?
Is it going to be considered as 2 channels ?

Yes, 200mhz is really 400mhz (DDR is data rate x2)
Check the timings, they will be something like 3-5-5-12.
Try to buy memory that is also the same timings.

The reason it says single channel mode is because you only have 1 stick of memory.
You have to have 2 sticks of the same basic memory to run in dual channel mode paired together.
That is why I suggested another stick of 256, and 2 more of 512.
While I know you are just wanting this to hold you over, memory is dirt cheap.

 

[gilme]

Can't find "timing"... where is it? and if it's not complicated-
what's the meaning?

If I go to a hardware store- they'll really know what I'm talking about when I'd talk about timing?