Computer memory compatibility

edbert

Alright, so I am looking to add some memory to my computer. I already have 2GB Patriot Memory Xtreme PC 6400, DDR2 800 4-4-4-12 2.2V and look to upgrade it with 4GB Patriot Memory Xtreme DDR2 800 5-5-5-12 1.9V.

Current http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820220144

Upgrade http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820220396

Which way do I need to adjust the timings and do I need to adjust the voltages as well(I know how to do all this, I am just unsure on which way to go)? I just want to know if these are close enough to work reliably and if so any adjustments that need to be made accordingly.

Thanks!

Face

What motherboard/processor?

billbillw

Your timings and voltage will auto adjust to the SPD settings of slowest memory in your system (which would be the 5-5-5 stuff). I always prefer to have matching memory throughout, but to each his own. If you install the 5-5-5-12 memory, the other memory will be performing slower than its spec'd.

I'm assuming you running a 64 bit operating system. Just checking. You will need that if you want to see all that memory.

Why not match things up better with you original memory's timings:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820220269
or
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820220293

edbert

Motherboard http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813131013

Processor http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819103773

edbert

Thanks bill, I have a copy of XP Pro 64 that I can use before I make the switch to Windows 7 later this year. I just found a great deal on that memory new and thought I might jump on it if it would work.

Is it possible to bump the speed up to the 4-4-4 stuff without it causing any problems? I do have the option to adjust it in the BIOS settings, I just didn't know if it would cause any problems. And if I bump it up and do I need to adjust the voltage settings to the higher 2.2V to keep it stable or will that potentially burn up the memory?

Thanks again!

Face

From the couple of threads I seen regarding RAM and this motherboard, I wouldn't recommend mixing either.

concealer404

edbert wrote: »

Thanks bill, I have a copy of XP Pro 64 that I can use before I make the switch to Windows 7 later this year. I just found a great deal on that memory new and thought I might jump on it if it would work.

Is it possible to bump the speed up to the 4-4-4 stuff without it causing any problems? I do have the option to adjust it in the BIOS settings, I just didn't know if it would cause any problems. And if I bump it up and do I need to adjust the voltage settings to the higher 2.2V to keep it stable or will that potentially burn up the memory?

Thanks again!

If you have the options to bump the voltage and tighten the latencies and you feel comfy with that, it IS an option.

Honestly, i'd just put in the 4gig set and ditch the 2gig set if you're dead set on getting more memory on a budget.

billbillw

edbert wrote: »

Is it possible to bump the speed up to the 4-4-4 stuff without it causing any problems? I do have the option to adjust it in the BIOS settings, I just didn't know if it would cause any problems. And if I bump it up and do I need to adjust the voltage settings to the higher 2.2V to keep it stable or will that potentially burn up the memory?

Thanks again!

I've never had much luck running memory at faster timings than the spec. It would probably be unstable.
It will either: not boot, or get flaky under heavy use. If you want to try it, I recommend running memtest (or similary) for at least 12 hours to see if its stable.

You can also check the newegg user reviews to see if anyone is able to get 4-4-4 timings. Worst case, just stick with the slower timings. You'd probably never notice a difference.

EDIT: I have to agree with Concealer. Ditch the 2x1GB set and get a fresh set of 2x2GB. You probably won't notice the difference between 4GB and 6GB unless you are doing heavy video work, and even that is questionable.

edbert

You know, I wondered about that Billbill. I will probably do just that and sell off the 2GB's to recoup some of my cost. I just thought if it would work I would do it.