is it ok to use one 1gb memory instead of two 512 leaving one open port?

Answer 1

Yes, that would work perfectly fine.

One consideration:
If your motherboard supports dual-channel memory (most newer computers do), one 1GB stick would be slower than two 512MB sticks. The idea behind dual-channel is basically that the system can read/write both sticks simultaneously, allowing memory access to be theoretically twice as fast.

If you DON'T plan on upgrading to more than 1 GB of RAM, just stay with the pair of 512MB sticks. The 1GB stick won't be faster, but it might be slower.

If you DO plan on adding more RAM (e.g., a pair of 1GB sticks = 2GB), only then does upgrading to 1 GB sticks makes sense.

Answer 2

It is no problem if your motherboard supports it, but, if you want to upgrade in a later stage, you can expect compatibility problems. It is always best to use the same kind of memory modules. If your motherboard support dual channel memory, use 2 X 512Mb memories, it is faster that 1 module of 1Gb. Log onto the manufacturer's site and check out for DUAL CHANNEL support of the memory if you don't have a manual.

Answer 3

Check your computer manual. It should tell you there. Newer computers have been developed to handle a single memory card while other slots are open. Post your model and make here and if you don't know where to look, we will help you find out.

Be careful. Don't try to purchase memory before finding out, because most places won't take it back once you've opened the package.

Answer 4

Yes. But, why don't you keep 1 of the 512 and add the 1 GB, so that way you have 1.5 GB. That's okay to do in most cases.

Answer 5

Usually yes, but you take ahuge hit in memory performance since the memory subsystem can only access half as much memory at a time.

Answer 6

most modern mobos can handle this just fine

and your mobo documentation will tell you if this isn't the case.


if you've lost the documentation, the mobo maker has it available online.

the command line program "DxDiag" ["start", "run", fill in the space] can usually figure out which model your mobo is if the computer currently runs.


GL

Answer 7

Yes, it works. But if your motherboard supports dual channel memory mode, 2x512Mb is better and 2x1Gb would be great.

Answer 8

yep and leaves you the option of upgrading to 2 GB of ram

Answer 9

It shouldn't be a problem...just saves room

Answer 10

Yes sir it is.