BleepingComputer.com: NEW COMP. - RAM - 1x2 GB vs. 2x1 GB

As you all know - I've finally bought a computer. Here's what it got...

AMD Athlon 2 X2 250 (3.0 GHz; 2 MB L2 cache; 45nm)
Gigabyte GA-MA78GM-US2H (AMD 780G + SB700; int. ATI Radeon HD 3200; onboard sound; GbE; micro-ATX)
Kingston 1x2 GB DDR2-800 (CL5; w.-out/ radiators)
Western Digital 500 GB (Caviar Blue)
NEC DVD+/-RW DL w/ LabelFlash (black)
Mid.-Tower ATX w/ 450 W PSU (w/ LED display; black)

So, as you can see - I've "bolded" the RAM. The thing, I want to know, is - is it normal, that I've got 2 GB of RAM installed as a one module? Does 2x1 GB would be better (on performance)?

I've heard, that when you've got 1 or 2 GB of RAM as a one module - the CAS latencies are "nulled" (or something like that).

They said, that they've installed 2 GB of RAM into my computer, because I've said, that I'm planning to upgrade later to 2x2 GB (4 GB of RAM)... well, maybe I did said that, but can't remember... I've definetly said, that I'm planning to upgrade to Sapphire Radeon HD 4850 512 MB later on (that's why I've got a 450 W PSU).



So, I need an advice from BC forums' experts on this case / a clear technical info.. To remind to you - the thing, that's interests me, is that - is there any difference in performance betwene 1x2 GB and 2x1 GB of RAM?

Thank you for any kind of help. Also - this case is URGENT. I need to know it terminally, because I haven't switched on my computer yet.



Thanks again... rhino1366

Is there any difference in performance between 1x2 GB and 2x1 GB of RAM?

On a dual channel motherboard, two identical sticks run faster than one.

Thanks, DJBPace07!

They've said that they've installed the RAM as a single module because "...I'm planning to upgrade to 2x2 GB...". Well, the only thing I've said on the phone, is that I'm planning to upgrade later on to a discrete GPU, like Sapphire Radeon HD 4850/4870 512 MB.

So should I ask them to change it to 2x1 GB right away (today)? The computer hasn't been turned on yet.

I think, it's their "politics" - they do not change used parts... though, 2 GB could be not enough for "hardcore" games under such GPU, and having 4x1 GB means, that all of expansion slots are used.

So, what are your final thoughts on it? Need a fast reply, because I should call them soon, if something will be changed.

Thanks again...

If you're planning on upgrading to a 2x2GB configuration, you may be better off with a single 2GB stick, otherwise you will have to remove or replace the 1GB sticks. If this PC has four RAM slots, you can still keep the 2x1GB configuration and simply install 2x2GB sticks as an upgrade in the unused slots. RAM is cheap so always go for as much as you can get. Remember, anything at or over 4GB and you will need a 64-bit OS.

OK, DJBPace07... so, 1x2 GB - is a weakened RAM set, right? Damn... Then, what should I do?

Whatever... maybe I'll keep 1x2 GB. Still, my computer is good. Thanks for your help.

rhino1366

This post has been edited by rhino1366: 21 August 2009 - 06:35 AM