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    Memory compatibility question

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by drumdoc, Feb 2, 2006.

  1. drumdoc

    drumdoc Notebook Enthusiast

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    Slightly off topic...I have a desktop PC that uses PC2100 DDR 266MHz memory. I want to upgrade the current 2 x 256MB config to 2 x 512 MB. I've found that PC3200 DDR 400 MHz memory is cheaper to obtain than PC2100. Will PC3200 work in my system but just run at the lower speed?

    Thanks,

    K
     
    drumdoc, Feb 2, 2006
    #1
  2. USAFdude02

    USAFdude02 NBR Reviewer & Deity NBR Reviewer

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    I don't think so...I think the highest you can go is like PC-2700 I think. I am sure some others will be able to tell you for sure.
     
    USAFdude02, Feb 2, 2006
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  3. ceiph

    ceiph Notebook Evangelist

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    it depends on your motherboard and its max speed. i.e. my mobo cant support faster than pc3200
     
    ceiph, Feb 2, 2006
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  4. dr_st

    dr_st Notebook Deity

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    It might depend on the RAM stick. Some 400MHz chips can run fine at 266MHz, but some might be quirky.
     
    dr_st, Feb 2, 2006
    #4
  5. Jenson

    Jenson Notebook Evangelist NBR Reviewer

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    That's correct on some motherboards if you use RAM that is faster than the motherboard can support, it will not even recognize the RAM, on others, however it will downclock it. Doc is right about his previous comment about the stick also. Check out the user manual for your computer or motherboard or go online to find out the maximum speed RAM your motherboard can use.

    Matt
     
    Jenson, Feb 2, 2006
    #5