Need help with RAM install?

Question

Ive just scanned my computer and it told me all the stuff i need to know. It also said that i need to install memory in pairs.

Does this mean i have to buy 2 new sticks of RAM or get a stick matching my current one?

Please answer thanks.

I have 4 slots with a max of 4g.

Answer 1

It means that it is advisable, but not necessary, to buy memory in same size pairs, for instance, if you want to upgrade to 1 gig memory, buy two 512 mb memory modules.

Personally, I always just bought what I could afford, and I could see no side effects, but maybe you should look up why it is advisable.

If your motherboard supports a max of 4 gigs, then I think you should buy two 2 gig modules, though it will be expensive. The biggest memory modules are only 2 gigs big. Otherwise, buy two 1 gigs or two 512 mb's.

Answer 2

if you are just going bigger and your replacing your current Ram you can go with one stick. If you want more Ram than the one stick provides you have to replace them in pairs and that means you have to put in two of the same size sticks what ever the capacity is. EX (2) 128 or (2) 512 or (2) 1024. Be sure to get the correct type of ram. Some computers will have four ram slots. It is better to just use two slots

Answer 3

First you need to know how much more RAM you can add or upgrade to from what you already have. So if your computer can say handle 2 gigs, you'll need 2, 1 gig sticks.

Mixing a 512 MB with a 1 gig might work (if cost is an issue).

Check the computer maker website and find the max RAM your computer can hold, then go to www.crucial.com and find what you need. Any computer store can also help you.

Answer 4

Both will be OK but a matching stick would be better for your wallet.
For most motherboards, matched pair is needed to run memory on dual channel mode (wider bandwidth). Newer boards with Intel Flex memory capability can run different memory sizes in dual channel mode.
32bit OS can not actually fully utilize 4Gb. A big chunk ends up in the memory hole.
http://www.codinghorror.com/blog/archives/000811.html
2Gb would be optimum.

Answer 5

I would buy modules in pairs of the exact same model and size. Unless you can find the same model of the one you are currently using. When you install memory in pairs, or banks it nearly doubles the speed that your computer can access it's memory resources. For example if a person was using one 1gig stick and went out and bought another 1gig stick (from a different manufacturer) your system may recognize them and operate them in pairs or it may realize that you have 2gigs of memory but not run them in dual channel.

Answer 6

Either.

wdw

Answer 7

pairing ram is now no longer necessary

Answer 8

yes

you don't need pairs any more though