less RAM but faster, or more RAM but slower?

Discussion in 'PC hardware help' started by Zutroy, Jan 30, 2006.

  1. Zutroy

    Zutroy Member

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    I recently upgraded my PC from 512mb RAM to 1gb. My previous memory was PC2100, and I wasn't sure if my motherboard would support higher, so that is what I bought (regretfully because I've learned that you can put faster RAM in and the motherboard will just slow it down to the correct speed). Anyways, my motherboard only has 2 slots for RAM and each had 1 stick of 256mb, so i took them both out and put one stick of 1gb. My girlfriend's computer has 1 512mb PC3200 stick in it with two unused RAM slots, so I was thinking about upgrading hers with my two 256mb sticks. Problem is they're PC2100, which will slow down her other PC3200 memory. So, my question is should I add the RAM to her computer to equal a gig at the cost of losing speed, or leave the 512mb alone at the cost of losing size? Basically, is 1gb of PC2100 better than 512mb of PC3200, or is it the other way around. Thanks.
     
  2. budberner

    budberner Guest

    I would definetly add the ram. You will not notice that speed difference. But the extra will help, especially dealing with video.
     
  3. Morph416

    Morph416 Active member

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    On the other hand, I wouldn't. Mixing different types of memory can cause unknown issues.

    What speed does her CPU's FSB run at? If it's 400mhz, then you definitely don't want the memory to be running at 266. Your better off matching the memory speeds with the CPU's FSB.
     
  4. Zutroy

    Zutroy Member

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    Hi again. I got this from using Belarc Advisor. This is my computer, not hers, but I just wanted to make sure that I know what exactly the FSB speed is. So, is what I have boldened correct? If so, does it slow down 266mhx memory because its a slower speed? Or does it matter? And if her FSB speed is quicker than 266 mhz at all, should I not add the PC 2100 memory? Thanks again for your help.

    Processor
    2.40 gigahertz Intel Pentium 4
    8 kilobyte primary memory cache
    512 kilobyte secondary memory cache

    Main Circuit Board
    Board: Intel Corporation D845GRG AAA81583-304
    Serial Number: AZRG31017126
    Bus Clock: 133 megahertz
    BIOS: Intel Corp. RG84510A.15A.0037.P15.0304012013 04/01/2003

     
  5. budberner

    budberner Guest

    Basically, is 1gb of PC2100 better than 512mb of PC3200, or is it the other way around. Thanks.

    I think it's 1g. Morph do you think it's the other way around? If your RAM isn't compatible your monitor won't stay on. I upgraded to 2g even though it made the original a little slower. Can't remember the specs exactly.
     

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