What happens if you use DDR2 memory instead of the required DDR?

Question

My computer requires DDR, not DDR2. It also requires PC 3200, not PC2 3200. What happens if I use PC2 and DDR2 istead of the required RAM memory?

Answer 1

Here is the geekish answer...

Most desktops and notebooks use one of the three most popular types of synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) for the main system memory. Single data rate (SDR) SDRAM is the older type of memory, commonly used in computers prior to 2002. Double data rate (DDR) SDRAM hit the mainstream computer market around 2002, and DDR2-based systems hit the market in mid-2004.

DDR SDRAM is a straightforward evolution from SDR SDRAM. The big difference between DDR SDRAM and SDR SDRAM is that DDR reads data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal, so the DDR module can transfer data twice as fast as SDR SDRAM.

While DDR has a limited clock rate, the evolutionary changes to DDR architecture enable DDR2 to achieve speeds beyond of DDR, delivering bandwidth of 5.3 GB per second and beyond! Because DDR2 is able to operate with faster bus speeds, your memory doesn't hold back the performance of your processor.

Generally speaking, motherboards are built to support only one type of memory. You cannot mix and match SDRAM, DDR, or DDR2 memory on the same motherboard in any system. They will not function and will not even fit in the same sockets.

Answer 2

It won't fit. DDR has 184 pins, were DDR2 has 240 pins. And the notch pattern is not the same.

Answer 3

You must use the type of memory that your motherboard requires. Most likely wouldn't fit in the slot anyway.

Answer 4

It would fit in the slot. Unfortunately, you would fry your motherboard.

Answer 5

It will fit on your motherboard, however, it might fry some components, and it definitely doesn't work.

Answer 6

It will not fit in the slot.

Answer 7

Wont work right

Answer 8

It'll crash, or not even fit.

Answer 9

You die!