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    RAM in the 8600

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by ccpwolf, Jul 12, 2004.

  1. ccpwolf

    ccpwolf Newbie

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    Does the RAM need to be the same in both slots.

    I am planning on ordering my 8600 with 256 and purchasing an additional 512 to put in myself (alot cheaper to add on own)

    Just concerned on whether the two different would cause a problem. I have heard on some computers the slots have to be the same.

    Also, with me only getting the 64 mb video, will the WSXGA be a waste of money? Gaming will be limited to Warcraft III or similar type games.
     
    ccpwolf, Jul 12, 2004
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  2. SupraSkylineSTI

    SupraSkylineSTI Notebook Geek

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    The memory (ram) does not have to be the same but has to be the same type as in dell which I believe take 200 pin. I don't see why you would want to do 256+512 if your are better of with 512x2!
    But since you are not a real serious gamer you don't need that extra push of power ...... and it aslo depends on what kind of graphics card you use, that can boost the graphics up. The WSXA and all those other screen I think just make things look brighter and a little clearer but it does not improve any thing about graphics, so I would advise you not to get the better screen cause it just gives better contrast....[ :(]

    When someone annoys you it takes 42 muscles to frown about it but it only takes 4 muscles to extend your arm and punch the crap out of them
     
    SupraSkylineSTI, Jul 12, 2004
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  3. mathlete2001

    mathlete2001 Notebook Deity

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    1. The RAM does not need to be the same in each slot. It owuld probably be better for you to get 768 megs of RAM and save your money than get 2x512. I have a WSXGA+ screen. That refers to the screen resolution. You probably won't be able to play games at that resolution, but it is much better for multitasking. It would definitely not be a waste. the FX 5200 will be just fine, as the 9600 pro is very expensive.

    GPU cooling (100°C->75°C)* Inspiron 8600 * 1.8ghz Pentium M * 128 MB Radeon 9600 Pro Turbo (337/242 -> 400/300) * 2x256 MB DDR2700 SDRAM * Aquamark 3: 24058 * 3DMark'03: 3404 * 3DMark'01 SE: 13120
     
    mathlete2001, Jul 12, 2004
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  4. kltye

    kltye Notebook Guru

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    I ordered my 8600 with a 256MB stick. Got myself a Kingston 512MB stick for a little over $100 USD. 768MB is plenty for everyday use. I don't use a swapfile, even when playing UT2K4!
     
    kltye, Jul 13, 2004
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  5. Scalded Ape

    Scalded Ape Notebook Enthusiast

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    That's exactly what I did. Got the minimum from Dell (I don't know or really trust what brand they put in there) and got a 512 stick of Corsair from Newegg.com. Everything is working great. Just make sure to get the same speed of RAM (333mhz/PC 2700 for mine).

    The extra resolution is great for multitasking, and your vid card will be fine for older games. Warcraft III probably doesn't support 1680x1050 anyway.

    ---------------------
    i8600 WSXGA+, 1.8Ghz Pentium M 745, 768MB RAM, 7200 rpm 60GB hard drive, Radeon Mobility 9600 128MB
     
    Scalded Ape, Jul 13, 2004
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