Gigabyte GA-965P-DS3 CPU/RAM Question

[mayest]

Ok, I haven't built a PC since the late 80's, but I've been using/upgrading them since about 1983. Essentially, I'm a newb who know just enough to be dangerous.

I'm buying the Gigabyte GA-965P-DS3 MB in hopes of using a Core 2 Duo. However, I really prefer to build this machine in the next week or so. For a couple of reasons, I'm strongly considering using a Celeron D 351 (533 MHz FSB) to start. The chip is cheap ($65) and I figure it will give me the chance to make sure everything works, and to get experience installing a CPU. Plus, I'll be able to order a Core 2 Duo and not worry much about delays in receiving it. The MB definitely supports this chip.

The problem is this: In the MB manual it specifically says in a footnote "(Note 1) To use a DDR II 800/667 memory module on the motherboard, you must install an 800/1066MHz FSB processor." The Celeron has a 533 MHz FSB.

Now, I'm planning on buying CORSAIR ValueSelect 2GB (2 x 1GB) 240-Pin DDR2 SDRAM Unbuffered DDR2 667. The above note makes it appear that this combo won't work. However, I've always thought that you could always use faster memory and it would just run more slowly. So, should this work, or not?

Thanks,

Tim

 

[Ayah]

It'll walk, I wouldn't expect it to run.

 

[mayest]

Thanks. Walking is fine. Hopefully, it'll move a little faster with the Core 2 Duo.

 

[CrimsonWolf]

Yeah, you're good.

I run the same board with a Pentium D 805 (533mhz bus too) and Corsair XMS DDR2-800, with no problems at all. I saw that same warning in the manual but I figured what the heck and tried it anyway. Booted up and works just fine. As you said, the ram will just run slower.

And about the Celeron D... I used that processor for only about 2 days before I returned it for a Pentium D 805. Just warning you If you can afford the 805 over the Celeron, go for it. There is a huge difference in performance, to help tide you over until your Conroe comes. :beer:

 

[mayest]

Thanks for the confirmation. I placed the order about 2 minutes ago. I can easily afford the 805, but I don't plan to use the Celeron for long and it seems a shame to throw away more than the $65. Also, this will be a backup PC until the Conroe arrives. Even then, I'll probably use the machine for experimentation (Vista, Office beta, Linux) for awhile.

 

[Ayah]

:beer: