Please suggest the best RAM options ?

Question

I am using XP Pro o/s, having 256 MB RAM (DDR2 PC2-3200) with Pentium 4, 3.0 GHz with H.T. Intel 915 GV (with 4 memory slots!) mobo and 80 GB sata HDD.
I wanted to upgrade my RAM, I have 2 option as under:

1) Either I purchase additional RAM of 512 MB making the total memory to: 768 MB. (256 MB + 512 MB)

2) I stick to same configuration of RAM already installed in my computer ie. 256 MB, in this case the total memory remains: 512 MB only (256 MB + 256 MB)

PS: I prefer to keep using the existing 256 MB RAM. As its new computer, I am also concerned that the motherboard doesn't get hurt or there isn't any hardware errors later on. On the contrary, any type of increase in memory should be for better performance of my pc.

What do you guys suggest, which is the BEST option to choose 1 or 2 ?

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Did two PCs with the identical memory configuration earlier this week. When with adding the 512 for a total 768. The more memory the better. Plus it is ccheaper per meg to buy the 512, as I will probably add more later.

You are unlikely to harm your PC adding the memory. If it is the wrong chip, that could hurt the PC, you will not be able insert it. The little slot in the middle of the memory will be in the wrong place to line up with your memory slot. And if it is going to cause memory errors, you will get it within the first 30 seconds of booting you PC. At which point you power down and remove the chip. (You did save the receipt?)

Go with the 512 chip.

Answer 2

Yes, I agree. Take the 256 out and replace with 1GB (2 x 512). I still believe RAM workers better in matcing pairs. RAM is fairly cheap. I've never had any problems replacing RAM. Just make sure you UNPLUG the computer and buy a reliable brand of RAM. Check out:

www.pcmall.com

Answer 3

option #2 is better, i think ram that comes on a pair (i.e., 256mb x2) works better. but if you really want a good boost from your pc's performance i suggest you take out the 256 and sell it and get a single 1gb ddr2, that's probably your best choice.

Answer 4

i would try to up it to a gig of ram. you can never have enough ram and this is one of the less costly upgrades for a computer. notjhing will happen to the computer if you follow the installation instructions (yes, actually read them) and , yes you will see better performance.