Can you use new ram in old mb?

[Ponzu]

I am building a new machine and have only bought the ram so far. Can I use pc3200 400mhz ram in an older machine until I get the new one in? The specs only state it supports 184pin 2.5v DDR.

I am sure it won't run at 400mhz but will something go wrong if I put the 400mhz memory in?

 

[jammydodger]

All DDR1 RAM is backwards compatible, that is to say that PC3200 will work in a motherboard that only supports PC2700. However the PC3200 will be throttled back to the highest speed that your board supports (i.e. the clock frequency will be reduced from 400Mhz to 333Mhz or 266Mhz depending on what your board supports).

 

[Ponzu]

Thanks,that's what I was wondering. I don't mind having it throttled. I'll only be using it in that machine for a few days. I just wanted to make sure I wouldn't break something.