Curse

dbh · Oct 31, 2007, 11:46 PM // 23:46

Hey, i need to know when you put some more RAM in your computer is there a certain type you need, or can you just get any and put it in.
Or how do you find out which type of RAM you need?

Ty

lordpwn · Nov 01, 2007, 12:01 AM // 00:01

You need a specific type. Unless your computer is really old I'd say it's either DDR, DDR2 or DDR3 (very new, rare). There's some variation within each type - like different maximum spec'd memory clock speeds and latencies, but generally you can mix RAM sticks of the same type: if you put in a 256 MB DDR-333 (a DDR-type stick with a maximum bus speed of 333 MHz) and a 512 MB DDR-400 stick the memory bus will run at the speed of the slowest one (333 MHz), and you'll have 768 MB's of RAM.

There's a freeware program called cpu-z that should be able to tell you what type you have in your computer now (and thus what it supports).

tijo · Nov 01, 2007, 02:11 PM // 14:11

Also be careful what brand of RAM you put in your computer. Try sticking with the same RAM brand since certain brands don't work well when mixed together. There'S also a quality factor, you might want to consider, some brands are more reliable than others.

Quaker · Nov 01, 2007, 03:48 PM // 15:48

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.

dbh · Nov 01, 2007, 04:35 PM // 16:35

AH kk, thanks alot guys

Chthon · Nov 01, 2007, 06:44 PM // 18:44

Check the motherboard's manual. It will say exactly what specs it accepts for RAM.

dbh · Nov 01, 2007, 10:54 PM // 22:54

Ok, thanks man