Notebook memory upgrade

[b3mor]

My new notebook (Acer Aspire 5101) could do with a memory upgrade as it is a bit sluggish at times with only 512MB.

It has two memory slots, so am I better off with:

1). A 2GB kit (2 x 1GB) and dump the 512MB

2). One 2GB stick to add to the existing 512MB

3). Just another 512 to take it to 1GB

Although the second option gives me more memory I am restricted to the 533 of the stick in there at the moment and the laptop can take 667 (although I don't know whether this will make much of a difference). Also the first option gives dual channel.

It has integrated graphics, and usage is the usual stuff. Thanks.

 

[DavidB]

Im guessing the 512mb is a single stick ?
Dual channel improves performance by up too 30% So if you added 2gb, it would be like 2gb too 2.6gb ( this isnt exactly 100% correct but its a good way of comparing.)

So, your comparing 2512mb too up too 2600mb , as you can see theres not a massive difference so id risk loosing dual channel, unless its an AMD processor.

 

[Crowze]

I'd say that's a rubbish way of comparing it, as it assumes you're going to use all of the memory all the time. Sure if the app you're using does need the extra memory then it may be faster, but for 99% of apps you'll find faster memory is better than more memory - it's not as if 2GB is a small amount anyway.

 

[b3mor]

Yes the 512MB is a single stick.

I want the best balance between cost and performance, 512MB just doesn't cut it, even in XP.

It is an AMD, single core MK-36 (2GHZ) so nothing special.

If 2GB is beyond what I need for my usage (no encoding or photoshop use, for instance), I could look to add just another 512MB or 1GB stick.

Is the speed of the ram (533/667) of any great importance?

 

[DavidB]

You should try and match to the speed of the ram you have, take the upper value (667) though.

AMD really benefits from dual channel mode, so if you get a second 512 stick or 2x 1gb sticks your guna see a pretty nice improvement.

So if cash is an issue, then id say go for a second 512mb stick.

 

[ninjapilot]

I think 667 ram is cheaper than the 533 so i'd get that.

1). A 2GB kit (2 x 1GB) and dump the 512MB


Ninja