Compatible ram upgrade

[decipherfreak]

Hi, I've been noticing a lot of memory overload when i'm using lightroom so I want to get more memory.
My motherboard is
ASUS M4A78T-E AM3
and my current ram is
G.SKILL 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1600 (PC3 12800)

I am currently on 32bit windows 7 so that might be part of the problem. Should I just get more of the same ram so I have 8gb, or should I switch out the current ones and put in 2x4gb? Also, how do I tell what model of ram is compatible besides the number of pins?

Thanks!

 

[r0aringdrag0n]

Maybe you have a memory problem? Or maybe the motherboard isn't designed to stand that kind of RAM unless OCed?
Also 32Bit windows only supports up to 4GB of RAM, so no upgrading for you (ram compatible: 1333Mhz).

 

[calguyhunk]

Your 32 bit Windows in any case won't recognize any more than ~3.5 GB of memory. So you need to first get yourself a 64 bit version before spending money on hardware.

If you have a retail copy, you don't need to re-buy. There will be 64 Bit DVD in your box anyways. But for an OEM copy, you're $hit outta luck. You either need to re-buy or get it for free from ummm... certain sources that I'm not allowed to talk 'bout here on Tom's

 

[FinneousPJ]

Yarr, thar be pirates.

 

[decipherfreak]

I think I already have a copy. I'm more interested in the ram upgrade

 

[r0aringdrag0n]

Get RAM that is running at 1333Mhz because that is the kind that your motherboard supports, something like this will work:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148419

 

[decipherfreak]

is it better to add 2 sticks of 2gb or switch it out for 2x 4gb?

 

[r0aringdrag0n]

probably 2 x 4GB, since you're motherboard supports up to 16GB, and with 2x4GB means that you'll have a bigger upgrading path in the future.

 

[decipherfreak]

ok thanks. Does it still have to be DDR3 1600?

how about this one
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231314

 

[decipherfreak]

or can i get the ddr3 1333 version

 

[calguyhunk]

The RAM in your link is plenty good. It's just that, it will be run at 1333 by your board without OC. Not a biggie. Prices of 1333 RAM ain't that much cheaper. If you do find significantly cheaper 1333 RAM, get that.

As far as compatibility with your board goes, you can check for that on the product page of your board manufacturer's website, but for all practical purposes, most memory is compatible with most board. Still, doesn't hurt to make sure before you dole out the cash

 

[r0aringdrag0n]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231422
Like this? The heat spreaders won't help boost performance or anything, only use is if you get into a rapier fight and they accidentally stab you in the place the RAM is placed...then it saves your life...but other than that it won't help unless you're overclocking the ram.

 

[decipherfreak]

Will this one work?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231311

It's PC3 10666, and on the crucial website it says my motherboard is compatible with

DDR3 PC3-10600, DDR3 PC3-8500, DDR3 PC3-12800, DDR3 PC3-14900, DDR3 PC3-16000, DDR3 (ECC)

 

[r0aringdrag0n]

It'll work. In fact, I have those RAM (only those are clocked at 1600Mhz) and they work great!

 

[fuggles]

get a 64 bit operating system

or just windows 7 64 bit