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193 Posts
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43029
March 7th, 2009 13:00
Matching DDR2 Memory
I've got an Inspiron 1420. It came with 2GB RAM, and I wanted to add another GB. The parts list shows this:
QTY 1
PART NO XD717
DESCRIPTION Module, Dual In-line Memory Module, 2GB, 667MHZ, 2X1GB, 512
Because the QTY showed 1, I thought there was a single 2GB stick, and I could buy a 1GB stick for the empty slot. I opened up the laptop, and there's 2 sticks in side, so both slots are full. The labels on both sticks show:
hynix 1GB 2Rx16 PC2-5300S-555-12
I guess the "QTY 1" meant there was "1" set of 1GB sticks. Yes? I have other machines where when the parts list QTY shows 1, or 2, the actual number of memory sticks is indeed 1, or 2.
Since this is DDR2 memory, is it not good to remove one of the 1GB sticks, and replace it with 2GB stick (from another vendor besides hynix)? Or is this ok as long as I get DDR2 667mhz memory. I don't if it would be a problem since I'd be mixing a 2GB with a 1GB stick, or if there could be a density problem.
Thanks.
husky0894
1.6K Posts
0
March 7th, 2009 13:00
To operate in dual channel mode, you need two matching modules - installing one 1G and the other 2G will break the dual channel configuration and cost you 10-15% in overall performance.
Blindmelonball
193 Posts
0
March 12th, 2009 12:00
Thanks, husky0894.
Ok, so I think I get it now. If my machine has four slots (2 pairs of slots, 1 and 2, and 3 and 4), I want to fully occupy either pair, or both pairs. And, each pair (Channel) that's occupied should have matching memory (a 'kit') in both of the paired slots. They should match in both size and speed. But, I'm not clear on density. I did read that desktops/laptops should use low density, as the high density memory is for servers. Out of curiosity, will this set up take advantage of dual channel mode. Can density be deciphered from these descriptions?
Channel A, Slot 1: 1GB, 667M, 128x64, 8, 240, 2Rx8 (factory installed)
Channel A, Slot 2: 1GB, 667M, 128x64, 8, 240, 2Rx8 (factory installed)
Channel B, Slot 3: 512MB, 64x64, 667, 64x64 (Crucial recommendation)
Channel B, Slot 4: 512MB, 64x64, 667, 64x64 (Crucial recommendation)
jzkicks12
9 Posts
0
March 12th, 2009 22:00
So if i have 1.5GB ram right now on a Latitude D810 Notebook does that mean I am loosing that 15%... Just upgraded today.. Used to be 1.0GB.. So I bought a 1.0GB memory stick thinking I would just get the max of 2.0GB.. Not knowing that they used 2, 512MB sticks... Giving me 1.0GB..
I already bought the other 1GB.. Waiting for delivery...