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    What are absolute minimum requirements for running DDR?

    Discussion in 'Dell' started by floepie, Aug 3, 2006.

  1. floepie

    floepie Notebook Guru

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    It seems that both mem modules must have the same speed rating in order to run in the faster dual channel mode.

    However, does this faster memory mode also require that the modules be of the same capacity as well?

    How about CAS timings and latency? Must they match?

    How about brands?

    My e1505 shipped with 1 512 MB pc4200. Is it safe to simply buy any old 512 MB or 1 GB stick at pc4200 and expect dual channel mode?
     
    floepie, Aug 3, 2006
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  2. jcaulley

    jcaulley Notebook Consultant

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    I ran my 9300 with a 256 and a 1GB stick for about 3 months before getting the second stick. I ran benchmarks on it and it did run in dual channel operation at the CAS and latency speeds of the slower modules. They were different brands as well. So you should not have any problems running whatever module you chose to put in there.
     
    jcaulley, Aug 3, 2006
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  3. floepie

    floepie Notebook Guru

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    Ah, so you think that DDR mode will always go into effect provided of course there are 2 modules no matter the specs on the modules.

    Everything always resorts to the speed of the slower card (i.e. speed, latency, etc.) and capacity has nothing to do with DDR at all, correct?
     
    floepie, Aug 3, 2006
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  4. jcaulley

    jcaulley Notebook Consultant

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    If by DDR you are refering to Dual Channel operation then yes. As long as you have 2 modules, Dual Channel will be active. They will run at the speed of the slowest module and differing capacities should not have a large negative effect.
     
    jcaulley, Aug 3, 2006
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