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Memory; two 256 sticks or one 512?

V

videobruce

Golden Member
Using a nForce2 MB with 3 slots, am I better off with 2 256MB sticks or one 512MB stick? Price is close, the arguments for one are; half the number of contacts to have a problem with, BUT don't you need a 'pair' to get the dual memory function?
If you do need the pair, what then about the 3rd slot? If you use it does it mess up the pair you already have?

Hope that made sense. I'm running 2k BTW.
 
3 slots is if you want to go with 3gb of memory (1gbx3). You only can use 2 slots in a dual memory function with a max of 2gb (1gbx2). The 3rd slot is there for those who don't want or need dual channel memory. So 256mbx2 would be the route you take to stay with the dual channel.


PS: I currently run a NF7-S v2 with 512MBx2 Corsair memory in dual channel and haven't noticed a difference that justifies dual channel.
 
Thats not actually true. Although the nf7 does list 2 slots for 400mhz memory dual channel and 3 slots of 333mhz dual channel, but most people seem to be able to do the example below.

All 3 slots can be used for a dual channel configuration.

2x256 + 1x512 = dual channel 1gb.

Just make sure you can find an similar 512mb stick if and when you decide to upgrade. You'll get better results if you can get the same kind of memory.
 
I don't understand how a third stick can function as 'dual' channel?
It doesn't mess up the pair that are already in there?
 
2k does not allow you to change cpu, mobo, or even soundcard without reinstalling it over again. go xp dude, versatile and easier to upgrade.
does it use less memory such as 64mb instead of 128mb? or is it more like 96mb upon bootup.
thats the only plus I see, see but oh well its an OK i guess if you are use to it.


later.
 
A always use at least two sticks as if one goes bad you aren't totally down while waiting for a replacement. I recently had a stick go bad and was VERY glad it wasn't the only one in there. I was able to limp along until the replacement came back from Kingston.
.bh.
 
Originally posted by: videobruce
I don't understand how a third stick can function as 'dual' channel?
It doesn't mess up the pair that are already in there?
Click to expand...


No, NF2 has very forgiving memory controller. I've run dual channel with 3 sticks of memory no problem in both my Epox 8rda+ and Abit NF7-S. 2x256mb and 1x512mb. If you're running IGP, definitely get 2x256 but if you're not, I would just get the 512 stick.
 
2k does not allow you to change cpu, mobo, or even soundcard without reinstalling it over again. go xp dude,
Click to expand...
That has NOTHING to do with the question, besides FP is too bloated for me!
2k is bad enough.
 
Originally posted by: wchou
2k does not allow you to change cpu, mobo, or even soundcard without reinstalling it over again. go xp dude, versatile and easier to upgrade.



later.
Click to expand...

ujmmm you lie

because ive changed a CPU, Soundcard, as well as a Nik and a raid controller in 2K with no issues
 
Originally posted by: Naustica
Click to expand...
No, NF2 has very forgiving memory controller. I've run dual channel with 3 sticks of memory no problem in both my Epox 8rda+ and Abit NF7-S. 2x256mb and 1x512mb. If you're running IGP, definitely get 2x256 but if you're not, I would just get the 512 stick.[/quote]Have you ever benchmarked between one, two and three sticks?
How is the NF7-S over the 8-RDA+? I have the 8-RDA and I'm thinking about getting the NF7-S rev2 (for reasons other that this thread is about)?

 
o and go with 1 512 stick, the performance you get with dual channel is minimal, with 1 512 its also easier to just pop in another 512 later for 1 gig

i have a NF2 Ultra mobo running 3x 512 for 1.5 gigs, no issues
 
if you're buying it now, i'd go with the 512mb stick since it allows more room for expansion later. sure the 2x 256mb will probably provide a better performance, but 1 stick of 512mb is always more expensive than 2 sticks of 256mb, especially now that most people have at least 512mb.
 
smaller the stick, the faster it becomes a key chain, I dont remember who said it but its true.. having 2 256 is a waste cuz when you go 1 gig, you'll need to buy 2 more sticks.. easier to buy 1 512 now and buy another 512 later and still have your 2 stick.. I dont think dual channel is that much faster.. if it is, buy 2 512 now
 
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