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General discussion

RAM help...

Jan 13, 2005 5:49AM PST

I just got a new computer for christmas which my parents bought for me. I hate to admit it but I mainly use the comp for playing games. I wouldn't call myself computer illiterate but I am very far from an expert. The RAM that the comp came with is a bit lacking IMO. I would like to bump it from 256 to at least 512. I was checking ebay and saw a variety of different choices of RAM.

So...

1)If I buy a 512 stick of RAM will I be able to have both that and the 256 in there for even better performance??

2) How do I know which RAM is compatible with my (Dell) comp??

3) Finally, (and most importantly) how do I install the RAM myself?

Thank you VERY much for any help/info you guys can offer!!

Discussion is locked

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Check with Dell
Jan 13, 2005 6:13AM PST

The web site should have information about your computer including what type of RAM and the maximum amount you can install. You can also go to Crucial.com or Kingston.com and find out what type to buy. Installing more memory is easy to do. It does require you open the case and take precautions to not have any static that could damage the components.

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It is most likely DDR RAM
Jan 13, 2005 6:38AM PST

The PC#### of it will be whatever the bus speed can support. Most likely it will be PC 2700 or PC 3200. Just look at the actual stick in your tower and plop in whatever you want. You do not need to worry about banking the memory. Banking is old news on new systems.

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Banking?
Jan 14, 2005 1:42AM PST

well this is the newbie forums so I guess I shouldn't feel too stupid but what exactly is "banking" the memory. Does that mean using two different memory sticks?

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Sorry Gamble
Jan 16, 2005 3:43AM PST

Yes, banking is when using older memory that had to be the same and in at least 2 banks on the M board. You most likely have DDR RAM and I bet it is at least PC2700. Just ask someone at a local store so you have someone to blame should it not work out right.

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RAM stick.
Jan 14, 2005 4:55AM PST

Hi Gamble,

Really, go to http://www.crucial.com/ and follow their simple instructions on keying in manufacturer, model #, etc.. They will tell you exactly what type RAM to add and what is the maximum amount of RAM your system will take. For best gaming I suggest not going over 512MB RAM unless you have a competition $3,000-7000 computer and plan on getting with them. Many lower price computers have problems with gaming using over 512MB of RAM. You will not see with your eyes any differenc from 512MB to 768MB. 512MB will adequately handle the new high tech games with an adequate video card. The 256MB stick would also be cheaper. High end RAM is good for developers, and graphic intensive programs, including video editing/movies.

After getting the info you can then go to Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, etc...and maybe pickup a recommended stick at a reasonable cost. I have done it that way and also ordered from Crucial.

Installation yourself is not that difficult, just remember to unplug cord and ground yourself before touching anything inside the case to avoid a static electric spark to fry the RAM stick or other stuff. Installatiopn instructions are usually in the box of the RAM. Can also get instructions from the internet.

JR