Memory Upgrade Question

[Carbo]

Must memory modules be installed in equal amounts? I just purchased a Dell Dimension which comes with 256MB RAM. It has 2 banks with 2 slots each and can accept a total of 4 G's of RAM. I want to add a 512MB module. Can I simply order that from Crucial? Or do I have to add the RAM in modules of 256MB only?

 

[Zim Hosein]

As long as your rig isn't using RAMBUS Memory, you don't have to add memory modules in twin pairs, I hope this helps Carbo

 

[lobadobadingdong]

most likely you're system has dual channel memory, I don't think you should put the new stick on the same channel, the channels are color coded if it is dual channel. If your 256 stick is on one color dim slot, put the 512 in the closest slot of a different color (should be the same bank) you would get conciderably more performance by buying 2 more 256 chips and running dual channel than with one additional stick of 512.

 

[Carbo]

Thanks for the replies, gents. Here is a link to what Crucial says: here.

 

[Carbo]

I realized it is dual channel. The default config is 128MB X 2. Doesn't this mean I need to add any additional memory in pairs? And does it matter which slots the modules are placed in?

 

[lobadobadingdong]

Originally posted by: Carbo
I realized it is dual channel. The default config is 128MB X 2. Doesn't this mean I need to add any additional memory in pairs? And does it matter which slots the modules are placed in?

you don't have to add them in pairs, it's just recommended for maximum speed. if you just get one stick put it in the slot closest to the processor