Right now I have two 512MB RAM modules in my home-built PC. They are elixir 512MB DDR-400MHz - CL3 PC3200U modules. I would like to add an additional 1GB of RAM to the system. I have 3 total RAM slots (1 availible). Could I just buy a 1GB RAM module and add it to the existing RAM? Should it be the same brand (elixir)? Will I have any compatibility issues? Should I just buy two 1GB modules just to be sure? I would hate to waste the modules I have now.
Also, can I reformat my computer with the existing RAM now and add the RAM later or should I wait and install the new RAM before I reformat?
2007-09-21 19:03:02 · 5 answers · asked by Pop_N_Fresh7 2 in Computers & Internet ➔ Hardware ➔ Add-ons
The motherboard is an Asus Via KT400/333 (that's what it says in the CD that came with it).
2007-09-21 19:18:44 · update #1
YES but take note that the KT400 chipset typically supports PC-3200 on TWO banks only. It may just downclock 3 PC-3200 modules.
http://www.asus.com/products.aspx?l1=3&l2=13&l3=62&l4=0&model=226&modelmenu=2
This might also be of help:
http://compreviews.about.com/od/memory/bb/aabybmemup.htm
2007-09-21 23:54:53 · answer #1 · answered by Karz 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No,you cannot just add another memory chip. Memory must always be installed in pairs of the same size. For example, 2 256MB chips gives you your 512MB. To add any more RAM you will need to replace the existing Chips with a pair that give you the total you want.
Also, the RAM and the Hard Drives are two Independent parts. Reformatting the hard drives will have no effect on the RAM and changing the RAM will have no effect on the hard drive.
2007-09-21 19:15:22 · answer #2 · answered by j_con999 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
you can format your hard drive with the rams you have now
please give details about your motherboard
your motherboard can support extra 1GB ram
but you should consider matching and compatible frequency
(the BUS clock) and data transfer rate and the brand at last
============this is from wikipedia.org
i just used copy/paste
Data transfer rate
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Merge arrows It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with bit rate. (Discuss)
In telecommunications, data transfer rate or just transfer rate is the average number of bits, characters, or blocks per unit time passing between equipment in a data transmission system.
Transfer rates can serve several functions. The response time can help a network administrator pinpoint where slowdowns and potential hangups exist in a network. By analyzing data transfer rates and adjusting accordingly as a preventative measure, a system can be made more efficient and will be more prepared to handle extra bandwidth constraints in times of heavy usage.
Testing mechanisms such as fiber optic loopbacks can assist in measuring and conducting data transfer tests.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Data_transfer_rate
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this is from computerhope.com
determining how to memory upgrade
http://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000910.htm
2007-09-21 19:17:00 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the motherboard but the most common rule is the larger chip must be in slot 1. Go to their web site or to motherboards.com to find out. The chip doesn't have to be the same manufacturer, just the same speed as the others.
Reformatting your drive is completely unaffected by the amount of RAM.
2007-09-21 19:47:36 · answer #4 · answered by THE ONE 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
EASIEST WAY
- go to http://www.crucial.com - look for offer to check yr memory - click on it - the moment crucial's server contacts yr computer if you have firewall installed yo will get notice (warning) from yr firewall that another computer is trying to reach yr computer - click ALLOW - crucial's server will run test of yr memory system and tells you just about everything about yr ram
- how many memory slots, how many ram installed, what type,
available ram to be installed and BEST OF ALL IT WILL TELL YOU WHAT IS NEWER TYPE OF RAM THAT IS COMPATIBLE WITH YR COMPUTER - go always with this new type of ram crucial's server recommends because it operates on higher frequency than yr installed ram which means moves more data in shorter period of time equalls better performance - this process will last only a short period of time - only a few seconds and comes with no strings attached meaning you don't need to buy ram from them - really an awesome service so check it out
ALL installed ram need to be of equal type and value - that way both yr ram and yr computer operate most efficiently - in yr case you need to buy 3x1Gb ram but all that will tell you crucial's server - ram is cheap and easiest way to add performance in regard to performance/price ratio - for regular tasks doesn't matter really (i run Vista Premium on minimum 1Gb specifications and it is OK) but for ANY power hungry application it will mean big boost
regarding yr second question - do it now or later doesn't matter really because yr ram type and amount depend on yr motherboard and in both cases it is the same one
2007-09-21 19:40:56 · answer #5 · answered by mburx 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋