It says that I need to install RAM in pairs for some reason. Is this right? Would I need to buy a set of RAM sticks or can I just get a second 512 or 1GB? And second, is that price too cheap?
Installing memory in matched pairs lets you use dual-channel which gives you a small but noticable speed boost. If your motherboard supports dual-channel, that is.
So if I were to get two 1GB sticks, I can still have the old 512 stick installed?
No. Well, you could, but it wouldn't run dual-channel.
note: make sure your motherboard supports dual channel before bothering with that shit anyway. Also, and I apologize if I'm stating the obvious, but remember that some motherboards use DDR and some use DDR2, and DDR2 doesn't fit in DDR slots (or vice versa).
You wouldn't happen to know the brand and model number of your mobo? That helps a lot if you do a search and look up it's specs for memory capacity and compatibility. It can also help cut down the chances of buying incompatible ram.
Download and run that, you'll be able to see what kind of RAM is currently in your system, all that good stuff. Then you'll know exactly what to look for in an upgrade.
Download and run that, you'll be able to see what kind of RAM is currently in your system, all that good stuff. Then you'll know exactly what to look for in an upgrade.
PC Wizard is better suited to the task. Made by the same people though and far more comprehensive.
Maybe, but all he needs is to know if his RAM is PCxxxx, really. This one will also inform you if your memory is capable of running in dual-channel mode.
Since the Crucial link he posted is for a Dell Dimension 8400, and all the matches are DDR2, it should be safe to assume his motherboard is DDR2 compatible.
Since the Crucial link he posted is for a Dell Dimension 8400, and all the matches are DDR2, it should be safe to assume his motherboard is DDR2 compatible.
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If you've got the money to, just go for 2GB. Get these and either keep your old ram or sell it or turn it into art or something.
No. Well, you could, but it wouldn't run dual-channel.
note: make sure your motherboard supports dual channel before bothering with that shit anyway. Also, and I apologize if I'm stating the obvious, but remember that some motherboards use DDR and some use DDR2, and DDR2 doesn't fit in DDR slots (or vice versa).
Download and run that, you'll be able to see what kind of RAM is currently in your system, all that good stuff. Then you'll know exactly what to look for in an upgrade.