Dimension E520 RAM and Graphics upgrade.

Question

Hi,I am looking at upgrading my RAM and Graphics on my  Dell Dimension E520.Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) D CPU 3.00GHzMemory: 1024mb (2x512mb) DDR2 PC2-5300 667MHz, Unbuffered and NON-ECC, and I'm pretty sure CL=5 and its 1.8volts Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce 7300 LE (Microsoft Corporation - WDDM) OS: 32bit Windows 7 Home Premium (may upgrade to 64bit) UPGRADE: MEMORY: Size: 4GB (2x2GB) Speed: PC2-5300 667MHz DDR2 Memory Chip Density: 256X4 (High Density) Voltage: 2.5V CAS Latency: 3 Pins: 240 Pin Unbuffered and NON-ECC II was told that the 2GB module should not be a problem (and it works out a lot cheaper), but the voltage (2.5V), CL (3) and Chip Density (256X4) is what worries me. Crucial Memory Advisor recommended PC2-5300 667MHz, Unbuffered and NON-ECC, 1.8volts and CL=5, but the Dell Dimension E520 product details just specifies maximum 4GB of Dual Channel DDR2 SDRAM (533MHz) GRAPHICS: I don't know what type of card my pc will accept but i think it has a spare PCI express slot, I want about 1GB graphics, nothing too fancy, I just want my games to look good for a cheap-ish price ($50 or so).Thanks in advance, Rod.

Rod_W · Answer

Oh and anymore information you might need, please just ask.

fireberd · Answer

Because of the Dell history of compatibility problems with some brands of memory, Crucial is what we recommend for non-Dell memory. The 1.8 Volt type is what you need (the same as my E510). A lot of the newer memory is 2.2 volt and higher but the "older" systems need the 1.8 volt memory.

You are somewhat limited on graphics cards due to the power supply wattage (305 watts) and you are not going to find much for $50 that is in the range you want. HERE is one that is in your price range.

Rod_W · Answer

Thanks for the help, I have tried Crucial but it doesn't give me options for a 2GB module (which the dell site actually says is compatible, and makes it cheaper).

So does the RAM being 2.5volts or the latency being 3 make it not work? or possibly damage my system?

Thanks, Rod.

fireberd · Answer

The 2.5 volts is the issue and it's iffy at best if it will work or work but have intermittent problems. Some motherboard BIOS (but not Dell's) allow configuring different voltages.

The Dell manual states 1GB modules (max size) with a total of 4GB and Crucial probably goes along with the Dell published specs, but I've seen reports of users that have installed two 2GB RAM modules and it worked.

I have a newer retail Intel motherboard and a Q6600 quad processor and this motherboard's spec's are 1.8 volt memory too. The BIOS on this, like the Dell BIOS, does not allow voltage changes. From what I find doing research 2.2 volt memory will not work.

Rod_W · Answer

Ok, thankyou very much.. I will start looking for other RAM then.

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Dimension E520 RAM and Graphics upgrade.

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