Yes, you do need a specific type. Depending upon the age of your computer and the motherboard/cpu in it, you may have SDRAM, RDRAM, DDR, or DDR2. These different types of RAM also come in several different speeds.
If the system uses SDRAM, it's an older system. You may have some trouble finding the RAM and it may be more expensive. You may be able to get used RAM from a local shop. (RAM doesn't 'wear out' so used RAM is generally just as good as new). You may want to consider upgrading to a newer cpu/mobo.
If it's RDRAM (used on some Pentium systems) - forget it unless you can get cheap used RAM.
DDR and DDR2 RAM are readily available.
Try to get the same type and speed RAM as you already have, for the least hassle. It is possible sometimes to mix different speed RAM as long as the difference isn't too great and the mother board is compatible. For example, if you were to add DDR400 RAM to a system using DDR333 (as mentioned above) it should be ok, but make sure you put the slower RAM in the first RAM slot(s) so that the BIOS will set things to the slower speed. You might need to get into the BIOS and actually set the correct speed if the system doesn't/can't detect it.
You might also find that, if say, you have 256Meg of DDR333, you may be just as well off to get two 512Meg DDR400's and just not use the old 333 at all.
There are many ways to determine what kind of RAM is compatible with your computer.
You can check the manual that came with the computer, or go to their website.
You can open the computer and try to find out the make & model of the motherboard and use that company's website to find out.
You can open the computer and look on the RAM itself to see if it has any identifying labels.
You can use a software app to find out what sort of RAM is installed.
If none of that helps and you have some sort of anti-static baggie or package you can put it in, you can physically remove one of the RAM sticks and take it to a store to compare it to those available and/or ask someone for help.
Last edited by Quaker; Nov 01, 2007 at 03:50 PM // 15:50..
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