I want to upgrade my memory in my Dimension 4700 from 512MB to 1GB. My specs say that I need 400MHz (PC2-3200) or 533MHz (PC2-4300) DDR2 unbuffered SDRAM non-ECC. What does the non-ECC mean? I was looking at memory at the newegg website and found Kingston ValueRAM 1GB (2 X 512MB) 240-Pin DDRS SDRAM Dual Channel Kit System Memory for $119.99. I think this will work, but I am not sure because the specs do not say if it is non-ECC - so I need someone to help me understand what this is and if it is an issue. If this memory will work for me, is Kingston a reputable name for memory?
Hi trilight, Your Dell was an early-adopter of DDR2 memory technology. These are the 'new' 240-pin memory, not the more traditional 184-pin DDR. But not new for you, eh? Lemme see here... about the slowest DDR2 you can get is PC2-4200 like you found there. It is rated for 266MHz (533DDR). That memory would be great for you. Sure Kingston is good, very well-known memory company. If you buy the 533MHz memory (Dell calls it PC2-4300, whatever) you can run it synchronous 1:1 with your CPU FrontSideBus, which is 200MHz. Since your memory is rated for 266MHz you will then be able to overclock... Or if not overclocking, Dell BIOS should offer you 3:4 ratio which will create the 266MHz memory speed. ECC means Error Checking and Correction and is a special type of memory (for Servers). Don't worry, most memory is not ECC - and if it is, you will know it because they charge more $$ for it, heheh... Hope this helps, Regards
You guys on this forum are so great! I have learned so much by reading posts here. Thanks for the info. My skill level here is not too advanced (and that's probably being way too generous). I don't know anything about overclocking or setting ratios in the BIOS. I think I just need something I can plug in the slots and it will work What I was looking at was DDR2 400 (PC2 3200). I guess that is slower, right? Would I do better with the 533MHZ (PC2 4200) or would that require more complicated installation?
PC2-4200 will do just that, and I recommend it. It will work better. The other, PC2-3200 is unusual and somewhat rare (not mainstream) so probably not really less expensive... So just go with the PC2-4200 which is the slowest most shops will sell. Even that must be sometimes special-ordered, as only faster PC2-5300 and PC2-6400 are kept in stock. I can't even special-order PC2-3200 because it is too old and slow, L8R
