Adding RAM to a P5N-E SLi

[Deathninja]

Hi,

Just swapped my OS over to 64-bit (Win7) the PC's borderline in age between keeping and replacing, so I figured I'd throw some more memory in to keep her viable for another few months.

Mobo is an ASUS P5N-E Sli, which was using DDR2 6400. However crucial reckons the board can take 8500 as well.

I'll admit I'm utterly clueless when it comes to FSB speeds (I'm in Chemistry, not computing...). Being as the old RAM will probably be coming out anyway, I have 3 queries:

1) Is it possible to mix 6400/8500?

2) Is there any special reason the PC originally shipped with 6400, such as some other component not being 8500 compatible?

3) Would I see any real improvement in getting 8500 over 6400? I know latency's more important, but I'm talking about just this value.

Cheers.

 

[Plec]

1. It is possible to mix 6400 with 8500 memory but you would have to run the 8500 at the lower 6400 spec - negating the 8500 spee (8500 memory is essentially overclocked 6400.)

But in an ideal world you would match the exact same memory, or get as closer match as possible, to try and eliminate possible conflicts. (you would need to ensure that the 8500 memory would run at the same voltages as the 6400 at 800MHz)

2. The PC was probably shipped with 6400 as it was probably cheaper than the 8500 (when you ordered it) - so larger profit margins.

3. The system will be snappier running at 1066MHz but i refer you to my first point if you plan on mixing the memory.

 

[Deathninja]

Perfect, thanks.