I have a HP Pavilion a250n that came with 2- 256MB running at 333MHz. There are a total of 4 slots in 2 pair, currently with 1- 256MB in each pair. I would like to upgrade my memory, but am unsure of my options. Do I have to intstall memory chips in pairs? Can I add just 1- 512? Can I add 1-1024? Can I mix and match 256 and 512 or do all chips have to be the same. Can I mix and match manufacturers, or do they all have to be the same?
2007-01-20 01:22:26 · 5 answers · asked by Janci 3 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Other - Hardware
The definitive answer is in the handbook (or in the manual on CD) that came with your computer.
BUT that said...
If they are described as pairs, then they almost certainly need to be filled as pairs with identical memory. You can test this... try taking one of them out and booting the PC... if it boots they are not needed as pairs at all.
You don't need to fill the second pair with the same size memory as the first pair (first off they are pairs... not quads... and second off they don't have identical pairs in at the moment (2x256Mb, 2x0Mb)).
If they are pairs they should be the same size and same arrangement... probably best to buy two the same from the same manufacturer but two the same size and same spec from different manufacturers would do equally. They can be different manufacturer from the first pair... as long as they are the right spec. for your machine.
2007-01-20 01:36:33 · answer #1 · answered by bambamitsdead 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The mother board dictates what the largest size memory chip you can use, as well as the total amount of memory you can add. Someone already gave you the link to find that.
There is also sometimes some special rules concerning single sided vs double sided memory - again, consult the manual. Double sides have chips on both sides of the memory stick.
Mixing manufacturers does not make a difference as long as you match the clock speeds.
The chips do not have to all be the same amount of RAM
-Dio
2007-01-20 01:38:52 · answer #2 · answered by diogenese19348 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, anything is possible, you can mix and match the manufacturer, the memory in each RAM (Like 128MB then a 1024 in the second one.) and even it's speed settings.
However, when adding RAMs with different speeds, you need to reconfigure your BIOS to lower the DRAM speed or to make the computer autodetect the best settings by using SPD settings.
2007-01-20 01:27:56 · answer #3 · answered by venereal_madness 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Here is a reputable "guaranteed" memory provider. Look up your system at http://www.coastmemory.com This will show what your computer came with, what it takes, and hot much it can take.
Good luck and Happy Computing!
2007-01-20 01:44:59 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It really depends on what your motherboard allows, I think the safest option would be to go with 4 of the same type you already have
2007-01-20 01:28:20 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋