[RESOLVED] [XP] Dual Channel RAM

[gioannou]

Hi all
I'm running a system as described in my specs below.
The PC stays on 24h a day.No heating problems so far(just a slight increase during the summer).Mostly downloading, testing of ERP applications and a little bit of gaming.So far I haven't seen the memory usage going over 70-75%.Thinking I might upgrade to Vista(perhaps after the first service pack!)

I'm thinking about increasing my RAM(currently running in dual channel mode).
I don't care about the cost since I got the money now, but I seriously doubt that I will in 1-2 months time!!!

1)Do u think it's necessary?(That is, will I need to add some extra before perhaps, replacing the PC?)
2)If I do increase, in order to maintain dual channel mode, do I need to have an even number of DIMM's?Is it imperative that they are identical?Is it OK if I occupy all of the available slots on the mobo?(4)

Thanx in advance

[SuperSparks]

For WinXP there isn't normally much benefit in going over 1GB. For Vista though, an extra gig would be well worth while.

To maintain dual-channel you do need an even number of modules. They don't have to be identical, though it is best to pair identical modules if you can. And it is OK to use all 4 slots - I have the similar A8N-SLI and I have 4x512MB DIMMS in mine.

[Steve R Jones]

Since you're not using all the ram you have now, getting more isn't going to do much.

SP1 for Vista might not be out for 12 months...

Dual channels as in Two means pretty much just that. So yes, you'd want to get two sticks.

[liam858]

I'd want to ensure they are identical, to avoid repercussions. They are usually sold as "Matched Pairs", so make sure you go for one of those "kits".


Liam

[gioannou]

Thx guys