Is it a bad idea to mix 2x1 GB dims along with 2X 512 dims on the same board for a total of 3 GB? This is assuming I can get them all to run at 800mhz together which I'm not sure is possible.
"inferior to using 2x2GB for several reasons" Please tell me what these reasons are so I can decide if I should add onto my 2X512's or go 2x2GB, thanks.
1) 4 slots being in use limits overclocking ability 2) using different brands of RAM can cause compatibility issues, you need to find the same time 3) Using different size memory sticks can reduce memory bandwidth and potentially performance. 4) 4 slots being in use can cause RAM to get very hot, in a case that isn't as well ventilated.
3) Using different size memory sticks can reduce memory bandwidth and potentially performance. Can you elaborate on what the effects of this would be? What kind of loss I can expect in performance?
Not a great deal for general usage like web browsing or gaming, but it may significantly affect long-term operations like video encoding and file compression, I haven't benchmarked it myself.
If I match memory then put the high capicity in slot #1 and #2 since these will be accessed more often right? Do you see 3 gigs as being a limiting factor in games anytime soon?
Doesn't work that way I'm afraid. 3GB is already a limiting factor in games if you use Windows Vista. 4GB is easier, more guaranteed and almost identical in cost.
