Memory

[ffutures]

The computer I want to use as my linux / Windows box is a Packard Bell that currently has 2 x 512mb DDRs, Non-ECC, 400mhz CL3, PC 3200.

I just ran the Crucial memory test on it, and it says that it can take 2gb, but their site only offered me 2 x 512mb, which is what it already has. They don't say why.

What I think that they're saying is that it can be pushed to 2 gb, but they aren't prepared to give a warranty. Oddly, my current machine is much older and uses 200mhz RAM, but went to 2g without any hassle.

Anyone got any thoughts on this? Are Crucial just being ultra-cautious, or is there some extra risk of failure with this type of memory?

Comments

[ffutures.livejournal.com]

Crucial is a big memory supplier - they have a program that identifies motherboards and tries to tell you what memory you need.

I've just found some references to the model as being able to take 2gb, but I think I may leave it at 1gb for now and see how it goes. I'd hate to spend forty or fifty pounds then find it doesn't work!

[nojay.livejournal.com]

That would be my suggestion. If you put enough load on it and it starts paging to disk a lot then a memory upgrade will be worth a try. Even if it fails you should be able to sell on the 1GB sticks for only a small loss as they are still in some demand.

[ffutures.livejournal.com]

The plot thickens - Packard-Bell just got back to me after 2 days and say it can use up to 2x1gb. But I think I'll still wait until I know if I need it or not.