More RAM please!! | Forums

[Von-Wand]

Hi All
I'm just after abit of info. My PC has a Packard Bell (NEC Computers) Columbia 2 motherboard it says in the spec it can support up to 1Gb of system memory in 2 DIMM DDRAM memory sockets using SDRAM memory modules. Its only got 512Mb at the moment, does anybody know if i simply have to plug in another 512Mb module.Should i buy a matching pair, or just find another of what i already have? It has a Radeon 9000 RV250LE graphics card, for an upgrade say to a 9800XT will it just plug in to the AGP connector, is there an industry standard for connectors ( like DIN or ISO). Can it even be done,and if so, the 9800XT 128Mb or 256Mb would you notice the difference, and would it be worth the extra money.
Any help gratefully recieved.



"Meine ehre heisst treue"

[Von-Wand]

Hi All
I'm just after abit of info. My PC has a Packard Bell (NEC Computers) Columbia 2 motherboard it says in the spec it can support up to 1Gb of system memory in 2 DIMM DDRAM memory sockets using SDRAM memory modules. Its only got 512Mb at the moment, does anybody know if i simply have to plug in another 512Mb module.Should i buy a matching pair, or just find another of what i already have? It has a Radeon 9000 RV250LE graphics card, for an upgrade say to a 9800XT will it just plug in to the AGP connector, is there an industry standard for connectors ( like DIN or ISO). Can it even be done,and if so, the 9800XT 128Mb or 256Mb would you notice the difference, and would it be worth the extra money.
Any help gratefully recieved.



"Meine ehre heisst treue"

[Weather_Man]

As for the RAM, you will need matching pairs IF it is Dual channel or Rambus. Otherwise, just putting in another 512 stick will do. Though you should always consult with your mobo compatibility/recommendations when installing RAM.

AGP (Accelerated Graphics Port) is the industry standard. All new cards will install on it. Yes, it will make a big difference installing a 9800XT.

However, much depends on your processor whether or not these upgrades are a wise decision. I would not do these upgrades on a 1.2GHz machine, for example. I would buy a new machine first.

[Weather_Man]

I should also mention that AGP is due to be replaced this summer by a new standard--PCX (PCI Express) which offers approximately 10x the bandwidth of AGP. This is a major change coming in motherboard design and bus technology that implements a new motherboard form factor, BTX. Of course, this also includes design changes in the computer case, motherboard, power supply and periphials. So, to fully implement, a complete new system is required.

There will be PCX to AGP compatible graphic cards that should offer increased bandwidth. Though not as much as a full PCI Express native system will.

[Von-Wand]

Weather_Man
Thanks for such a quick reply, it doesn't mention if its Dual Channel or Rambus i'll have to find out from the manufacturer. The CPU is a P4 2.8GHz so this should be O.K. yes? I havn't really got the money to change my whole setup just upgrades. Can you explain the difference between the 9800XT 128Mb and the 256Mb, is the 256Mb worth the extra money, would i just be better off with the lower spec card.
Thankyou once again



"Meine ehre heisst treue"

[LuckyBoy1]

Use this utility to find out exactly what kind of RAM you've got and a whole lot more about your lil 'puter...


http://www.aida32.hu/aida-download.php

Solutions for internet security & spyware problems... http://www.geocities.com/callingelvis911/s_s.html

Luckyboy = Senior hydraulic landing gear designer for the P-11 & Contributing Editor to Complete Users magazine.

[Weather_Man]

You should always try to match the RAM speed and timings to what you have. That utility will show you exactly what to look for. You may also have a sticker on your RAM module with some info. You're mobo is most likely Dual Channel capable, using DDR modules. The RAM slots will be color coded and/or separated,(two and two)--you'll want one stick in each type slot (slot one and three, or slot two and four) to enable Dual Channel.

The 128mb and 256mb vid cards refer to how much video RAM is installed on the card. As of now, I don't think it makes much of a difference in games. I'm quite happy with a 128mb card.

[Von-Wand]

To both fo you, many thanks
i used the aida32 program and found out some very interesting information. My motherboard is actually made by Gigabyte, yes it is dual channel using two DDR memory sticks, and yes there is some info on the one 512Mb stick thats in there. And there's one free slot, to upgrade just plug in and away you go,it says the memory is automatically detected. I'm just glad there is such a good tech forum staffed by people willing to take the time to help people like myself with limited knowledge.
Yours thankfully



"Meine ehre heisst treue"