Splitting dual-channel RAM, any downsides?

Audigex · 5 Feb 2009 at 23:09

Hey, a friend an I each have an Eee PC (mine a 901, his a 904).

We'd like to upgrade our ram from 1GB to 2GB. Now, the RAM seems to be slightly cheaper in a 2x2gb dual channel kit, rather than 2 seperate 2gb units, plus the shipping should knock a couple of quid off.

I just wanted to check, though, whether there's any downside to splitting a dual channel kit? I presume not, but it's one of those things I'd always rather check first.

Thanks

Ease · 6 Feb 2009 at 07:12

Does the Eee PC have two RAM slots? You could always buy a single 2gb unit, and give him your 1gb to boost him up to 2? Might save money.

Audigex · 6 Feb 2009 at 11:20

Nope, just the one. I've yet to see a netbook with more than one slot

PistolPete · 6 Feb 2009 at 11:41

No downsides at all. A dual channel pair is selected to be as similar as they can so it works well in a single PC. Splitting the pair and you simple have 2 sticks of RAM. Don't worry, they wont miss each other ;-)

For what it's worth I upgraded my fiancee's 1000H to 2Gb and it flies

Audigex · 7 Feb 2009 at 04:22

Excellent, thanks. I wasn't expecting anything to cause problems but it's one of those things where my head just decided it sounded strange.

I've heard that doubling the RAM in most Eee's gives a pretty substantial performance boost. With 2gb PC-5300 SODIMMS at £40 a pair now it's a bit of a no-brainer.

Having said that, I find certain programs screw it over royally. Mine's perfectly happy with AVG8, but if I put threatFire on it, which causes no problems whatsoever with my standard laptop, it won't open any programs whatsoever.

Threatfire disabled and it's a happy bunny again.

Anyway, cheers for the help :-)

One last thing, anyone know if it's possible to save my OCUK basket while I buy something else? I don't want to have to add the whole build again but I can't justify buying it for 6 weeks (cash-strapped until then), when I hopefully get free shipping aswell.