Performance hit from single channel memory, integrated graphics, and Nforce2?

[mshan]

I own a Biostar M7NCG rev. 7.2 with integrated graphics.

I currently own 1 x 512 MB Buffalo Tech PC3200 memory.

I've read that integrated graphics is the one area where you would see significant (40%?) improvement from using dual channel memory with Nforce2.

If I am not gaming, would dual channel memory make my system seem snappier (i.e. less latency during websurfing, etc.) or is it only when the system is taxed with intense gaming that the difference is appreciated?

 

[2cpuminimum]

I would expect the difference would only be noticable when you were gaming, or otherwise transfering a lot of texture data. Of greater significance is your peak commit charge: does it exceed your RAM? If so, then you would benefit from another DIMM. You might be able to beat $40 after rebate if you look hard enough in the deals forum.

 

[magomago]

This is how you should see it:

If you do NOT(Or you do, but you use a seperate videocard) have integrated graphics on your nforce2,
dual channel will make <5% impact, usually closer to no gain in preformance (or negligble) because the AXP isn't a crazy bandwith hungry processor

If you DO(AND USE IT) have integrated graphics on your nforce2,
dual channel will have an impact because the IGP will draw ram from the system ram...so doubling the bandwith avalible will improve preformance and not choke both processor and videocard to the degree that single channel does.


Bottom line:

If you are not gaming I don't see how it will matter.

 

[mshan]

So, for web browsing and iTunes, 1 x 512 MB should be just as snappy feedling as 2 x 256 MB RAM?

Also, I have my 1 x 512 MB Buffalo Tech PC3200 (Winbond CH-5) at 2 3 2 11 and 2.8V in my Asus A7N8X v2 Deluxe. If I run it at 1 x 512 MB 2 2 2 11 in the Biostar, would this make the system feel more snappy vs. any potential gain from a dual channel configuration?

EDIT: with iTunes running (visualizer on) and surfing the web, I get a peak commit charge of ~ 314000.

 

[IntelUser2000]

NO, the integrated graphics on Nforce2 is made so well at least for memory management that neither single or dual channel loses performance by using integrated in 2D apps. You will get only performance difference if you are running in 3D by running in dual-channel. Search Anandtech for it.