Do I have to have two memory modules to play DFI nF4 SLI Expert?

[i3dmaster]

Currently I only have one 1gb pc3200 stick and I am not sure if this will work with DFI nF4 SLI Expert MoBo since I saw most of people buy memory kits. I haven't opened it yet, so if its not useable, I will return it and buy a two stick memory kit. Also would it be the same that if I buy another same brand and size memory module instead of buying a memory kit?

 

[Goalkeepr]

I think you can use 1 stick, but you won't get dual channel.

I guess I always assumed you needed two sticks, but this post set me straight.

 

[Uhtrinity]

Like the previous post says, you only need 1 stick, but dual channel won't be active. The only memory types that required multiple sticks were edo/fpm in pairs, and 30 pin simms in sets of 4.

 

[i3dmaster]

yes, most people get two stick memory kit makes confused that I might not be able to use only 1 stick of memory. Also, in order to enable dual channel, I just need to buy another same brand and size memory and put it on the MoBo, right? Or there are something I need to config for getting dual channel setup...? How big the benetif is by switching to dual channel?

 

[Goalkeepr]

YMMV. I would start here.

 

[vanvock]

They need to be a matched pair, that's why they sell the kits.

 

[Uhtrinity]

Actually they don't don't even even need to be perfectly matched. You will get dual channel upto the size of the smallest stick, or full dual channel with 2 sticks of the same size and chip count. But matching makes it easier.

 

[i3dmaster]

Thanks very much for help!