Affect of 2x1GB + 2x2GB in dual-channel system?

[Enuf2BDngrus]

Hello, my current system has 2 1GB sticks in dual channel and I would like to add more ram, but perhaps go with sister 2GB sticks (instead of another pair of what I have). Assuming all else is equal, will that mess up the dual ch. mode?

 

[nikorr]

Well, it will work, but not as dual, but in the flex mode.

But post your mobo info.

 

[jaquith]

Welcome to Tom's Forums!

It depends on the RAM -- 2x1GB and 2x2GB; if it's the same Type, CAS, Frequency, and Voltage then it can work and Dual Channel 'can' be supported; 3GB per Channel or 6GB total. Also, you'll need a 64-bit OS to access and use >4GB of RAM. In general I caution mix-matching RAM and it's best to simply purchase compatible matched sets. RAM particularly DDR3 is very cheap today and your data integrity IMO more valuable.

I'd need to know the EXACT RAM of both Sets; please provide link(s) to each set.

Q - RAM links?
Q - MOBO?
Q - CPU?

You can use the free CPU-z to identify; CPU-z -> http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html

 

[Enuf2BDngrus]

When I posted, I mistakenly hit ASUS, so sorry if that created confusion.

I've a Gigabyte GA-M57SLI-S4 (Rev 2) using the Nvidia nForce 570 SLI chipset.

 

[nikorr]

What is your OS? Is it x64bit?

your mobo needs...
4 DDR2 DIMM memory slots (supports up to 16GB memory)(Note 1)
Supports dual channel DDR2 800/667/533/400 DIMMs
Supports 1.8V DDR2 DIMMs

 

[Enuf2BDngrus]

Thanks for input, here's more info:

RAM: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820226086
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820226215

Mobo: http://www.gigabyte.us/products/product-page.aspx?pid=2539&dl=1#ov

CPU: Athlon X2 5600+ http://products.amd.com/en-us/DesktopCPUDetail.aspx?id=35&f1=AMD+Athlon%E2%84%A2+X2&f2=5600%2b&f3=&f4=&f5=AM2&f6=&f7=&f8=&f9=2000&f10=False&f11=False&f12=True

I'm running Ubuntu 64bit - thanks

 

[jaquith]

You need to identify the other RAM and in particular look at the 'SPD' information tab on both sets.

[strike]DDR2 is near EOL (low production) so it's expensive. Here's compatible RAM for your MOBO -> http://www.crucial.com/store/listparts.aspx?model=GA-M57SLI-S4%20(rev.%202.0)&Cat=RAM 'I' need the Frequency, CAS and Voltage before rendering an opinion <or> simply try the mix and cross your fingers. [/strike]

DDR2 800 5-5-5-18 @ 1.80v ; if the other set is the same per 'SPD' then go for it

 

[Enuf2BDngrus]

I'll try to track that down.

Re EOL for DDR2: I know, it kills me to see the price of DDR3 vs. DDR2, but I don't want/need to replace my mobo just yet.

Thanks for the input!!

 

[jaquith]

Hey if it works and does what you need -- that's all that matters. Like getting a $1,000 CPU just to browse the net or open a Word document...CrAzY. I'm with you!

 

[Enuf2BDngrus]

Best answer selected by Enuf2BDngrus.

 

[nikorr]

This topic has been closed by Nikorr.