Memory Upgrade Query

[r4mmy]

I currently am considering adding memory to pc. But am not sure what type of memory to get and if its even possible to add 2 more.

Motherboard: A8N-SLI
Memory: Corsair XMS 1 GB (TwinX Matched memory pair) [2X512]

I would like to add 2GB [2X1GB] to the current 1GB. Is it possible for my mobo? And which memory should i go for? I am unsure on the exact details of my current memory.

Is there any way i can find out the relevant details about the memory on my pc?

[Workaholic]

If it's a company built computer use crucial's website and type in your model number, otherwise the CPU Z would be a good idea.

[htid]

Assuming this is your mobo, you can see what memory you could get.

DDR 266 333 or 400.

Supports up to 4gb so i guess you are ok getting another 2gb but i don't know if you can mix sizes ie 512mb with 1gb? Using crucials site is probably the best idea as workaholic said

[r4mmy]

This system was not company built, I had it assembled about 2 years back by a friend.

Will there be a conflict using different types of ram 233/333/400? or even different latency? Not to mention if its even possible to mix 512mb with 1gb?

As i said before, I am not sure what type of ram is installed other than its "Corsair XMS 1 GB (TwinX Matched memory pair) [2X512]".

[htid]

This is cpu-z, it will tell you your mobo, cpu, and ram. Download, install and then you can see what speed it is in the SPD tab under "Max Bandwidth". Hope that helps.

[teachmech]

Best guess is that you have pc3200 buy a matched pair of 1Gb (ie 2x1Gb) pc3200 but be aware that speeds may drop to pc2700 depending on your CPU stepping.

[r4mmy]

Yeap, thx htid.

Your right teachmech, it is a PC3200(200 MHz). Is it worth upgrading the ram by adding 2 more 1Gb sticks? Or jus replace the 1Gb(2X512) with 2Gb(2X1Gb) instead?

[teachmech]

What does cpu-z say about your cpu?
ie
clawhammer
newcastle
winchester
venice ect.
Depending on your core there are different scenarios but the best option for memory speed is to replace current with 2x1GB.

[Yellowbeard]

r4mmy, in general it is a very bad idea to mix memory unless you can add the EXACT same memory, specifically the same revision using the exact same ICs. In some cases mixing will cause your system to be unstable or even to become unbootable. You will be best served to buy a 2 x 1gb kit of your choice as I doubt you can match your memory exactly.

Also, CPU core will not matter in this case with the exception that Rev E CPUs, (Venice and newer) will handle 4 DIMMs far better than the previous Rev. D CPUs.

Obviously, I am biased on brands so I will let you decide what brand you choose to buy.

Good luck, Yellowbeard
Corsair Tech Support Specialist

[DanceswithUnix]

Obviously, I am biased on brands so I will let you decide what brand you choose to buy.

That is very honest of you!

My recommendation would be 2GB of PC3200 from Corsair, as I would expect that to give you the best chance of it playing nice with what you have. Plan on just using the new 2GB of ram, but give the system an overnight memtest86 with 3GB and chances are it will pass and be fine.

My basis for saying this is a machine at home (with an Asus A8N-SLI motherboard) with 1.5GB of Geil valueram, and one at work with 3GB of Corsair XMS DDR.