Confused about type of memory to use with Epox 8kha+

[kjacobs]

I have several systems using the 8KHA+ mobo and PC2100 memory. I want to build another system with the board but am confused about how high I can go on the memory type. The mobo can use 100/133 types and the manual says PC2100. I checked the Crucial site and it said I can go up to PC2700 or even PC3200. The Kingston site just says PC2100. Can I use PC2700 or PC3200 and would I have to "stick" (pun) to Crucial or use another mfg? U would use 256 or 512 sticks.

Thanks.

Ken

 

[PCHPlayer]

You can always use memory that is spec'ed higher that what your system requires. Go with 3200 if there isn't a price premium. Choose your brand based on your own opinions, Kingston or Crucial are fine choices.

 

[kjacobs]

Thanks for the help!

 

[kjacobs]

Will the board recognize the higher speed on bootup? Right now it says PC2100 and I have a 256 stick of PC3200 memory installed. Do I need to change a setting (multiplier?) to get it to recognize the faster memory. Does it recognize it as 2100 or the faster speed.

 

[Peter]

The board probably displays the standard it is _running_ the DIMMs at, not what they are capable of. The chipset can't go higher than 133 MHz (PC2100). Probably this old board's BIOS doesn't even know there are PC2700 and PC3200 standards.

 

[kjacobs]

So you're saying that buying anything over PC2100 is a waste? Thanks for the reply!

Ken

 

[ClockerXP]

Originally posted by: kjacobs
So you're saying that buying anything over PC2100 is a waste? Thanks for the reply!

Ken

That's correct unless you would like to possibly use the memory in a future system that will actually be able to use the PC3200. If the PC3200 is only a little bit more $, get it. If nothing else it will either be more useful in the future or have better resale value.

 

[Peter]

Well, in fact, buying PC3200 gives you better migration options (although e.g. an Athlon64 system would also run your PC2100) - and anyway, PC2100 RAM appears to cost MORE than PC3200 these days. Vendors charge a premium for those "rarities" to unsuspecting consumers who didn't ask at Anandtech first

 

[kjacobs]

You are both right! The PC3200 IS cheaper where I looked and it does give me flexibility in upgrading. Thanks!