Ram

[Cagez]

Whats the difference between the different types of ram? Theres DDR, SDR or something --?

My computer is DDR I think, my friend says I have the best type.

 

[Daniel]

SDR = Single Data Rate, processes only 1 memory request at a time, commonly refered to SDRAM.

DDR = Double Data Rate, processes 2 memory requests at a time which makes it faster and higher performing.

RDRAM or RIMM = RAMBUS In-Line Memory Module, low latency, relatively high performing ram(faster than SDR, slower than DDR, but latency is incredible).

 

[Cagez]

So DDR is the one to get then?

 

[Daniel]

Well you can't mix SDR with DDR, or RDRAM with neither.

So whatever your motherboard supports, use that.

 

[Cagez]

I know you cant mix, figured that out earlier today

But if your on the market, look for a mobo with DDR, right?

 

[Daniel]

Depends what combination of hardware your going to use.

If your going to use a P4(Northwood), get RDRAM(or PC3500 DDR RAM). If your going the AMD way, PC2700+ DDR is good enough.

 

[dawizman]

Daniel. PC 3500 is also good for AMD. When I replace my PC-2700 with PC-3500 and set the RAM to run at 400Mhz rather that 266, there was a significat differance (a 34% boost in 3Dmark 2001 SE and a 21% boost in PCmark 2002)

 

[tandoc]

so its SDR RAM not SDRAM like all the n00b computer companies call it

 

[Daniel]

Originally posted by tandoc
so its SDR RAM not SDRAM like all the n00b computer companies call it

Uhhh no.
It's SDR SDRAM, just like DDR SDRAM.

Daniel. PC 3500 is also good for AMD. When I replace my PC-2700 with PC-3500 and set the RAM to run at 400Mhz rather that 266, there was a significat differance (a 34% boost in 3Dmark 2001 SE and a 21% boost in PCmark 2002)

Yes I know, but 2700 is the bare minimum, plus it'll be better if your processor and RAM speed are synced.

 

[dawizman]

What do you mean by better?

 

[jurupa]

Basically the CPU will work less at processing info.

 

[Cagez]

Got one more question, what does "PC-2700" and stuff mean? Does it matter which I get? Do I need a certain kind for my computer, if so, how do I find out which one I need?

 

[dawizman]

what does "PC-2700" and stuff mean

the 2700 means it can transfer 2.7GBps of data.

Does it matter which I get

Yes, make sure the ram operates at the same, or higher FSB as the CPU.

Do I need a certain kind for my computer, if so, how do I find out which one I need?

Well, you neer either sdr sdram, ddr sdram or rd ram. You will have to consult your mainboard manual to see which your mainboard runs.

 

[Daniel]

Originally posted by dawizman



Yes, make sure the ram operates at the same, or higher FSB as the CPU.

Lets say one has a AMD Athlon 2000+ at 133fsb(266). It would be completely useless to have RAM running at 333mhz(PC2700) as you won't notice any performance gain whatsoever.

 

[dawizman]

not true, when i switched my PC-2700 to PC-3500, i experience a 34% boost in some areas.

 

[Daniel]

But can you actually feel it? It doesn't matter what the benchmarks say.

 

[Cagez]

Thanks guys

How do I know my CPU FSB so I can get the right type of ram? Sorry for my n00bish questions

 

[Daniel]

What processor you have? And is it overclocked?

 

[Cagez]

Intel Pentium 4, 2GHz. Not overclocked.

Looking here, it says "400MHz system bus", is that the FSB thing you guys were talking about?

 

[Daniel]

Yes it is.

So basically, PC3500 would be optimal for you, but is very costly.

PC2100 would be good too...