What do I have to put into consideration when updating RAM?

Question

When purchasing additional RAM for a desktop computer, what do you have to put into consideration? Are certain types of computers only compatible with certain types of RAM sticks?

Answer 1

There are serveral considerations:

1) You must get the correct type for your motherboard
is it DDR? DDR2? or others?
2) You must get the correct speed or higher for your CPU
PC2100? PC2700? PC3300?, etc
3) You must get the correct error correction type
ECC, parity, etc?
4) Less importantly, what's the CAS latency?
5) Does your motherboard requires modules in pairs or can you add singly?

It is the best to consult with manufacturer's recommendations.

Contrary to common beliefs, the speed does NOT have to match exactly as long as minimum speed is met.

Also, you should get a quality module. Any issue with memory will result in crashes or lockups that are very difficult to troubleshoot. Don't go for the least expensive ones.

Answer 2

Yeah. Give your PC model # in additional details. RAM varies on speed and no two speeds are compatible. Also your computer can only handle certain speeds. If you have a new computer you will use DDR2 ram generally. If you have an older computer (bought 1 or more years ago) chances are you can just plop in a multispeed compatible DDR1 chip in (These are common in stores and are labeled as compatible with more than one speed).Speed is represented by PC # and multispeed DDR1 generally is compatible with PC2100-PC3000.

Here's a link to find what type of memory your system needs. This is from PNY (RAM manafacteur). The PNY ram configurator will look at your PC model # and determine what type of RAM you need.

http://www.pny.com/configurator/

Answer 3

Your RAM slot type
like 184-Pin SDRAM
or 200 pin SDRAM
stuff like that, research it from ur manufacture's website you u bought a prebuilt one
then make sure its compatible
and how many slots of RAM can you fit in
If your computer is new, it can probably fit from 2 to 4 sticks of RAM
Then you have to know how much you want
512 is normal
1gb is a nice speed
2gb should be bought only if you edit videos or play some hardcore games like Doom3, Call of Duty 2, Counter-Strike
stuff like that
remmber, you have to remove your old RAM first or else it will slow down your new ones (they could be different speeds)

Answer 4

very good question,...look for these details

1. what type of RAM your PC accepts DDR, SDDR, etc.
2. SIMM or DIMM
3. how much will your PC support, you don't want to buy 3 GB if your PC can only go up to 2 GB
4. most important-high density or low density

here's a web site from the best priced RAM I could find on the Internet! I'm cheep so trust me, it is the best price. The memory pro is the largest RAM dealer on eBay. When you click on the link you will see where you can send him a message. So, just log into eBay and if you don't have an account make one,...it will be worth it! If your not sure what specific type of RAM your PC takes he will tell you and even guaranty it! Just mention to him how much you want, 512MB, 1GB, ETC.

Answer 5

Yes...compatibility is a huge factor. Not just speed, but bus type too. There are a few things to understand.

I've provided a great link to a shopping place online for computers, RAM, etc. It's great not just because of its prices, but because of all the customer reviews. Guys are telling about what they're putting in their system, what works, what doesn't, what works super good...

A real wealth of info. Good luck and take your time.

Answer 6

It has to be compatible with your motherboard. Check the manufacturer of your motherboards website for the type of RAM to use with your board.

Answer 7

The speed of the ram must mach exactly.

Answer 8

Try www.crucial.com