Memory Upgrade Question

[heinousd]

I have a Dell Dimensions XPS T850r...currently I have 128 mb RAM (168 pin, SDRAM, non-parity, CL2, PC100). I accidently ordered 256 mb RAM (168 pin, SDRAM, non-parity, CL3, PC133). I was wondering if this new chip will work with my existing. I know that the speed max is PC100...but is it a problem having CL2 and CL3 in the same box?

Or should I not risk it and return the memory and order 256 mb RAM (168 pin, SDRAM, non-parity, CL2, PC100). I heard from a co-worker that having memory with different specs can cause problems.

Just wondering if I need to go through the hassle.

Thanks!

 

[gmrickards]

I would look at crucial.com where you can select the kind of computer you have and it tells you what type of RAM to get for your computer. See if that is compatable. If it is use it, if not, I would return it. Just my opinion.

 

[lybush]

I believe that most motherboards go either way, 1/3 higher or lower.

I'd try it.

Len

 

[heinousd]

I did look at crucial's memory selector...I didn't see the same exact choice...but it did bring up very similar specs...I think the difference was the CL rating, 2 vs 3.

Thanks!

 

[gmrickards]

Yeah, I looked to. It looks okay to use from what I see, but if it causes problems, don't blame me.

 

[heinousd]

Thanks gmrickards, I think I will give it a shot. Don't worry if it don't work, I won't blame you...you weren't the one who ordered the wrong stuff.

 

[pcmodem]

Yo,
There could be problems for a number of reasons:
1. CAS timing 2 versus 3
2. 7.5NS (PC133) versus 10NS (PC100) RAM
3. BIOS autodetection of RAM

If the BIOS allows you to manually configure the Memory Settings, set all memory settings to CAS3 and 100Mhz. It's the safest thing to do.

You could always RMA the memory.
-PCM

 

[gmrickards]

No, prob...good luck.

 

[heinousd]

pcmodem,

I understand the difference in CAS...the speed difference seems to be nominal. With regards to the BIOS recognizing RAM...the motherboard maximum is set at PC100...so wouldn't the faster PC133 just be run at PC100? Kinda like driving a sports car in the slowlane...still works, but not being fully utilized.

Point taken tho...if my machine starts smokin or dies...it's RMA and Re-Order time!

 

[gmrickards]

PC100 vs. PC133
If both PC100 and PC133 are listed, your system was designed for PC100. The only reason to choose the PC133 module is if you expect to buy a future system with a 133MHz front side bus and want to be able to use the same memory in both machines.

CL=2 vs. CL=3
In general, CL=2 is better than CL=3, particularly if you are a gamer or have a high-performance system. However, if you are an average user, you probably won't notice the difference between the two parts. (CL stands for "CAS latency," which is the number of clock cycles it takes before data starts to flow once a command is received.)

This is what crucial says about it all.

 

[pcmodem]

Yo,
As a heads up, likely things to happen when you plunk in the DIMM:
1. It works cleanly
2. Either the PC100 or PC133 DIMM is not recognized
3. Lots of beeping and it fails to POST
4. It POSTs and boots, but crashes periodically

Last, but not least...
5. Data corruption due to uneven data exchange speed and latency

Good luck.
-PCM