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    Does dual channel memory have to match

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by Asymmetricblog, Apr 19, 2009.

  1. Asymmetricblog

    Asymmetricblog Notebook Consultant

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    I have a Inspiron 1420 with 2GB of RAM. It's probably two sticks (my wife's using it now so I can't check) of 1GB. Question:

    If I want 3GB of RAM, and replace one of the 1GB modules with a 2GB one, will I lose any dual channel benefits?
     
    Asymmetricblog, Apr 19, 2009
    #1
  2. JohnByeBye

    JohnByeBye Notebook Evangelist

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    If you upgrade to 3GB, the 2GB module will be Dual Channel but the 1GB Module with be Single Channel. Call Dell weird, that's how they do it.
     
    JohnByeBye, Apr 19, 2009
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  3. Asymmetricblog

    Asymmetricblog Notebook Consultant

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    I'll just leave it as it is. I actually ordered the module for another computer that I didn't end up buying. Ebay it is.
     
    Asymmetricblog, Apr 19, 2009
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  4. sgogeta4

    sgogeta4 Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    If you buy a 2GB stick, it will be in asynchronous dual channel mode with the 1GB stick. If you notice slow downs and lack of memory, go for the upgrade. It is cheap and you will not lose anything. More memory is always better (though if it is unused then the cost outweigh the gains, ie. more than 4GB for most people).
     
    sgogeta4, Apr 19, 2009
    #4
  5. Mastershroom

    Mastershroom wat

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    Honestly, unless you're really strapped for cash, I don't see why you don't just get a 4GB kit. DDR2 memory is dirt cheap these days. You can get a 2x2GB 800MHz set of Kingston DDR2 notebook memory for like $40.
     
    Mastershroom, Apr 19, 2009
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  6. SteveJonesy

    SteveJonesy Notebook Evangelist

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    Nothing to do with Dell - blame Intel. It's how the chipset works.
     
    SteveJonesy, Apr 19, 2009
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  7. flipfire

    flipfire Moderately Boss

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    You will lose true dual channel mode, in turn you will get asymmetrical dual channel (aka Intel Flex Mode). Say you have an unmatched pair 2+1gb sticks. The common first 1gb of each stick will run on dual channel while the final 1gb left over will run on single channel mode.

    I can explain it alot further, down to the maths but in short, Intel flex mode will still be faster than your CPU's FSB (communicating speed). So as long as your not running single channel you shouldnt worry about performance setbacks

    I do recommend getting a 2x2gb sticks since they are very cheap these days. Piece of mind too..
     
    flipfire, Apr 19, 2009
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  8. JohnByeBye

    JohnByeBye Notebook Evangelist

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    They choose to use the Intel chipsets. ;)
     
    JohnByeBye, Apr 19, 2009
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  9. SteveJonesy

    SteveJonesy Notebook Evangelist

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    Aint got that much choice if they wanna do any business :)
     
    SteveJonesy, Apr 19, 2009
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  10. JohnByeBye

    JohnByeBye Notebook Evangelist

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    Lol. True that. There are like 15 million AMD based laptops on their outlet website. :p
     
    JohnByeBye, Apr 19, 2009
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  11. bigdarkmad

    bigdarkmad Notebook Evangelist

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    I have 3 GB in DUAL and they work pretty well.
    Guess flipfire is right, but my performance is good enough.
     
    bigdarkmad, Apr 20, 2009
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  12. Asymmetricblog

    Asymmetricblog Notebook Consultant

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    I put in the 2GB module. The Windows performance thing for memory went from 4.7 to 4.8. The bios says dual channel. I feel at peace now, like my life is fulfilled.
     
    Asymmetricblog, May 12, 2009
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  13. Mastershroom

    Mastershroom wat

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    Haha, good to see you're enjoying that. The increased Windows score can probably be attributed to the increased amount, rather than dual-channel capabilities. Next stop, 4GB in a 2x2GB! :p
     
    Mastershroom, May 12, 2009
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  14. Asymmetricblog

    Asymmetricblog Notebook Consultant

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    Thanks for your help. The people on this forum are very nice.
     
    Asymmetricblog, May 13, 2009
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  15. Mastershroom

    Mastershroom wat

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    I try. :D

    In all seriousness, though, everyone here is very helpful. It's definitely a great place to go for help.
     
    Mastershroom, May 13, 2009
    #15