Memory question?

[GA_Pilot]

I have a question about memory.....I have a Dell Dimension 8300, which I think uses dual channel memory, anyway it presently has 512 MB of memory PC2700. I am wanting to upgrade to more. I have seen at some of the sites like TigerDirect and NewEgg have dual channel memory modules. They also have just single memory modules, and what I was wondering is if I can use TWO of these single memory modules, OR do I have to use only the dual channel memory modules. Also, what is the difference between the PC2700, and the PC3200? Would the PC3200, be more beneficial than the PC2700?
Thanks  ;D

[Delta_]

Two pieces of memory of the exact same type and usually make will act in dual channel mode only if the mobo accepts it and that the memory is put into the correct slots.  You need to read the mobo manual or find out somewhere which slots you should use for that mobo.

PC3200 runs at 400MHz and PC2700 runs at 333MHz bus speed.  If you use PC2700 then the PC3200 will run at PC2700 speeds.  For dual channel you will need PC2700.

[ctjoyce]

Ya what he said. But usually buying the two packs is cheeper, and you know that there woulnt be any problems with the two cards (like a possable mixup which has happened to me) also I think dell uses Kingston (dont quote me on this) so run CPU-Z and find out everything about your RAM and then go buy one that is the same. I recently rebuilt my m8's dell Demnsion 4700 and I can rember finding the exact same stick on newegg (saving my friend $90) anyway keep looking and were here to help

[Bubblehead]

Piece of advice. Unlike most BYO PCs like mine Dell PCs sometimes don't appreciate  non-Dell aftermarket components installed in it. In fact some Dell towers cannot be readily opened without a key. You can build a better, faster,  more pwoerful, trouble-free, no-hasle PC for much less the cost than off the shelf Dell.

Bubblehead  

[GunnerMan]

I think newer dells are upgradeable, my friend did. Yes you don't need to buy the "dual cannel" stuff all that says is these 2 sticks were tested to work in dual channel. Even though most do, I do recomend you get 2 of the same kind of ram though as mixing should work but that can be iffy.

[GA_Pilot]

Thanx for the replies everyone. Probably what I will end up doing is changing everything....Probably use the Dell case though. And you dont have to have a key to get into it...very easy to get into