How important is this

[bigstrickler]

How much difference is there between using dual channel memory and not...is it very noticable in games and such? I have 1gb of generic ram now and I am thinking of maybe just saving some cash and buying just 1 more gig of ram instead of buying 2 sticks of the same ram to get dual compatability. You guys think this would be ok?

 

[Rommel44]

If you buy same model they might work in dual channel - its about 50-50 chance but even if they dont work in DC difference´be less than 5%.

 

[bigstrickler]

The problem is that the 1gig i have installed is generic it came with my computer (HP)...also how much of a difference is 5%? in games?

 

[Bobthelost]

5%, so if you get dual channel you may gain 5% of your current fps (ie you get 30fps now, you might end up with 32fps).

This is of course assuming you've got a single 1GB RAM stick. If you've got 2x512 then you'll need to get another 2x512 and you'd then stay in Dual channel but lose 3% or so thanks to 2T command rate.

 

[bigstrickler]

Oh, I didnt know that memory related to FPS...i thought that was mainly the graphics card heh

 

[Bobthelost]

It is mainly the graphics card, but the CPU and memory obviously make a bit of a difference. Otherwise why have them

 

[bigstrickler]

yeah true true lol...hey i was wondering about the stats for ram...ic like 5-5-5-12 or 3-3-3-7, etc...someone told me that the lower values for those are better but I see ppl in this forum spending more money buying ones with high values like 5-5-5-12 over 2.5-3-3-7 or what not and the higher value sticks are sometimes more expensive too why is this?