Noob questions about memory

[woolfe9999]

I'm pretty much a noob when it comes to memory because I rarely upgrade it and there are so many variations out there that I can't keep track. Anyway, my situation is this:

I built a new rig last year in July. Mainboard is MSI P6N Platinum (650i). At the time I was running XP and so I got 2x1 memory sticks. Now I'm upgrading to Vista and I want to add 2 more gigs of RAM.

First off, I don't recall which memory I bought before. If I get 2 more sticks for the other 2 slots, do they need to match the RAM I already have in there? If so, is there a simple way to find out what memory I have?

Second, assuming I don't need to match the old RAM, what should I be looking for as there are about 100 variations of DDR2 800 over at the Egg? Do I want something with low CAS? What brand is recommended? I want to spend about $60.

Finally, I'm hearing that it's best to go with 2x2 instead of 4x1. Should I get rid of the RAM I have and buy a 2x2 kit? I'd prefer not to spend the extra money but if it's important I will.

Thanks in advance for any replies.

- woolrfe

 

[brencat]

Most people will tell you that it is best to use the same brand and type of memory you already have. But more important than brand IMO is to use RAM with similar timings and vDIMM requirements at a given rated speed. In other words, it's not a good idea to mix PC2-6400 CAS4 RAM rated for 2.0v with CAS5 PC2-6400 RAM rated (and warranteed) for 1.9v max if you plan to run all 4 sticks at CAS4 and 2.0v. On the other hand, if you plan to run CAS5 and 1.9v, then the CAS4 rated sticks in this example would likely run the lower voltage and looser timings with no problems.

Second thing is, check the forums to see how good your board is at handling 4 RAM slots filled at the speed you plan to run your RAM at. Some boards have issues with all 4 slots filled and IIRC, the P6N is fairly picky with RAM timings and settings to begin with (at least with the early bioses). You may find running 2 x 2gb to be better if that's the case.

 

[JustaGeek]

650i is very picky with the memory, as brencat said.

I've recently added 2x2GB of Crucial Ballistix, and it works fine with my 2x1GB HZ series from G.Skill.

But both IC's are made by Micron.

I couldn't get the Powerchip based RAM to work with my Micron based G.Skill, even though the specifications were the same.

I would personally recommend EXACTLY same memory, and you can verify what you have with CPU-Z or Everest, if you don't want to open the case and physically check the label, or find the original packaging.

Good luck!

 

[woolfe9999]

Thanks much for the help. Sounds like I should aim for the exact same RAM to play it safe. I'll check around to see if anyone has reported problems with a 4x1 setup on my board.

- woolfe