Upgrading to 2GB - 1GB DIMM or 2x512MB?

TheVoice · 14 Jul 2006 at 14:32

Hoping some of you guys can help me out. I'm currently running 2x512MB of Corsair ValueSelect (CL2.5 stuff). I want to go up to 2GB, but I'm not sure if I'm better off getting a single 1GB, or another two 512MBs.

I've heard of there being issues with running four DIMMs (in that timings get increased) on Athlon 64 systems, which mine is: It's a 3200 winchester on an Abit AN8-SLI Fatal1ty. However, the 1GB DIMM also has higher timings than the 512s I already have, so either way, it looks like timings will suffer, which doesn't seem to be a huge problem.

If I go with the 1GB, I'll lose Dual Channel, won't I? How much of an effect will that have?

As you can see, I'm a bit confused as to which route to go down. I just don't want to make the wrong choice and end up sacrificing performance where it isn't necessary.

Thanks for any help!

utherpendragon · 14 Jul 2006 at 15:08

You'd probably be best selling your existing memory and getting a matchedpair of 2 x 1gb modules. Should work out the same or slightly cheaper.

booyaka · 14 Jul 2006 at 15:38

utherpendragon said:
You'd probably be best selling your existing memory and getting a matchedpair of 2 x 1gb modules. Should work out the same or slightly cheaper.

agreed - 4 x 512 means more stress on the mem controller and 1 x 1gb & 2 x 512 means no dual channel.

sell you existing stuff and get a 2 x 1 gb kit.

TheVoice · 15 Jul 2006 at 20:01

Hmm...I suppose that's an option, it just involved more hassle. Is it really worth it? Is the loss of dual-channel going to mean that much?

Thanks for the replies.

FreeStream · 15 Jul 2006 at 21:54

Yes, its a lot, 5-15% AFAIK. Plus you will drop to 333mhz and 2T IIRC. Add onto looser timings, and lowered mem speed you've lost 20% possibly.

Get 2x1Gb sticks

CR.

TheVoice · 15 Jul 2006 at 22:20

Well in that case, 2x1GB it is. Won't have my PC back till September, so I've got until then to get posting so I can sell the 2x512s on here!

Thanks guys.