Memory compatability issues

[PowerYoga]

Quick question... I have some old memory (pc3200 DDR) that I would like to give to a friend. Problem is, I don't know what kind of motherboard he has nor does he know how to find out. If he puts in pc3200 memory into a motherboard that only supports up to pc2100, how will the system react? Will it just downgrade the 3200 to a 2100 level or will it simply not work?

If he's using RD ram instead of DDR... then that's a whole different issue.

 

[DaveSimmons]

If it is a pre-built computer like an eMachines or Dell, use the website memory selector at www.crucial.com (don't use the downloadable one).

 

[Blain]

Have your pal run Belarc Advisor. It will tell him everything you need to know.

 

[PowerYoga]

It's not a prebuilt. His brother built it for him which is why he doesn't know much about it...

I'll tell him to try the Belarc Advisor. Thanks for the help!

 

[Nick5324]

Once you have figured out that his system uses DDR, it should be fine. If his motherboard only supports 2100, then the 3200 will just run at 2100. I'm sure there are some exceptions, there always seem to be certain motherboards that are very picky, but there is a very, very good chance that it will just run at 2100.

 

[PowerYoga]

Thanks for the responses. I'm going to send him the ram and see how it goes!