RAM Query

[CruisingComet]

Just wondering if anyone can advise on a RAM query I have..?

I'm currently running a Core2 Duo 3Ghz on an Abit IP35 PRO Mainboard with 4GB (2x2GB) Corsair Dominator 1066mhz DDR2, when I upgraded to Windows 7 OS recently, I swapped out my 2GB (2x 1GB) Corsair Dominator 1066mhz DDR2 Ram for the 4GB kit as I was going from 32bit to 64bit

My question is, if I add the 2GB kit to total 6GB (It runs as Ive tried it) as the 2GB is made up of 2x1GB sticks and the 4GB is made up of 2x2GB will adding the 2GB sticks degrade performance in anyway? Bearing in mind the dual channel slots 1+3 will hold the 4GB sticks and 2+4 slots will hold the 2GB sticks.

I did a run of the Windows experience index and it shows the same memory operations per sec with or without, so not really sure if it's of any benefit or not, just wanted to check as I don't know whether i should throw it in or just sell it as it's just sat in the draw since upgrading.

I just didn't want to put it in and find the 2GB kit holds it back in anyway?

 

[Bendihossan]

The reason the Windows index shows no improvement to performance (memory operations per second) is because 32 bit copies of Windows can't take any more than 3.2GB worth of RAM so anything over that is surplus. However on 64bit machines you will be able to use the extra RAM. Adding more individual RAM sticks to your mobo will also put a bit more stress on the north bridge which might be a dampener on the speed but I'm not sure by how much. Bit of a discussion of the topic over here: http://www.overclock.net/windows/483214-windows-7-4gb-ram.html

 

[arclight]

If you go to the Crucial website www.crucial.com and let then scan your computer they will tell you what RAM you can add and what sort of improvement you can expect.

 

[CruisingComet]

Yeah thanks, but I know about the 32bit OS limitation, and as stated in my OP I'm running 64bit

What I'm asking is.....

Will adding the 2x 1GB kit degrade the performance of the 2x 2GB kit?

 

[Bendihossan]

Yeah thanks, but I know about the 32bit OS limitation, and as stated in my OP I'm running 64bit

What I'm asking is.....

Will adding the 2x 1GB kit degrade the performance of the 2x 2GB kit?

I see no reason why not, it might slow down the north bridge's performance slightly but other than that it shouldn't have any negative affect. I don't think it would be noticeable at all to be honest with you. Best way to find out is to give it a go I guess

 

[stupar]

It wont have a negative effect as you are ultimately still running memory in matching pairs which I believe is the best way to do it.
I was always told that DDR RAM works best when running matching pairs and dual channel.
Now if you only put 1 bank of extra RAM in (making it 5gb) that would be pointless.

 

[CruisingComet]

I see no reason why not, it might slow down the north bridge's performance slightly but other than that it shouldn't have any negative affect. I don't think it would be noticeable at all to be honest with you. Best way to find out is to give it a go I guess

Have popped it back in, will run it for a day or two and see how it goes, have heard the Abit IP35 boards don't like all 4 slots occupied and with slowing down of the northbridge chipset (If this is true) not sure if it's worth the bother, might just invest in another 4GB pair at a later date (although 8GB seems like overkill) and just flog off the 2GB kit maybe.

 

[CruisingComet]

It wont have a negative effect as you are ultimately still running memory in matching pairs which I believe is the best way to do it.
I was always told that DDR RAM works best when running matching pairs and dual channel.
Now if you only put 1 bank of extra RAM in (making it 5gb) that would be pointless.

Yeah they are matched pairs as they are Dominators, just not sure of the effects of mixing a 4GB pair (2x2GB) with a 2GB pair (2x1GB)

 

[stupar]

Yeah they are matched pairs as they are Dominators, just not sure of the effects of mixing a 4GB pair (2x2GB) with a 2GB pair (2x1GB)

It won't have a bad effect if they are all the same spec, just different amounts.
To be honest re the 8Gb RAM, I wouldn't bother. Having that amount of RAM is a waste of money IMO as the computer will never use the full amount.
The average 64 bit comp is happy with 4Gb.
Hell my 32 bit XP whips along at a spritely old pace and thats only got 2b.