A8N-SLI, Winchester, and running all 4 DIMMs

[Insomniak]

Well, Battlefield 2 is out so we all now have an excuse for more than 1GB of RAM. I am currently running two Mushkin DDR400 modules at 512MB each.

I understand that with 4 DIMMs filled, Winchester's memory controller drops the speed on these modules to DDR333, but I'm only running two right now.

Here's the trick guys: I'm already running these DIMMs at a DDR333 divider, and because of overclocking they run the full DDR400. My question is this: if I add two more identical modules, thus giving me 2GB and 4 full DIMMs, could I just remove the divider, keep my overclock, and would all four DIMMs run DDR400? What about keeping the divider on, just to be safe (as it's valueRAM, it can't OC too high)?

I'm just pondering replacing the 512s with 1GB modules for ~$160 vs. simply adding another GB for ~$80. All I want is the stock DDR400 they're rated for. This doable?

 

[imported_Kensai]

Theoretically it's possible. I don't believe that the Winchester core's memory controller can handle it though.

 

[FastEddie]

It's "doable" and the only absolute is that the four modules will run 2T Command Rate. The memory controller will set the four modules to run @ DDR333. This you counter by manually setting them to run @ DDR400, but you are stuck with the 2T. 😉

 

[imported_Kensai]

Originally posted by: FastEddie
It's "doable" and the only absolute is that the four modules will run 2T Command Rate. The memory controller will set the four modules to run @ DDR333. This you counter by manually setting them to run @ DDR400, but you are stuck with the 2T. 😉

That's assuming the memory controller can handle it. Try it out and tell us.

 

[CheesePoofs]

Most winchesters can run 4 sticks at DDR400, but you still have to use the 2T command rate. Its not that big a deal, though. Slight performance drop, but probably canceled out by the additional ram in most scenarios.

 

[Insomniak]

2T doesn't mean much. ~ 3% in most real world tests I've seen. I'll probably give this a shot then. Thanks guys.

 

[ss284]

It works fine for me on my a8n-sli. 4 512 mb sticks, running at ddr 400. Just manually set it in the bios, and youre set. Im using a winchester 3200+.

-Steve