[Neek]

I have heard that Windows XP Pro caps out at being able to use 2GB of RAM? I also hear a lot of people saying, "Oh ya I got 4GB's of XXX RAM and its soooo fast!!!!"

I'm just wondering, if I have Windows XP Pro, and all I do for the most with this computer is gaming and internet browsing, should I get 4GB? I am just unsure because I see so many people saying they getting 4GB or they have 4GB, a lot other people say 2GB is good.

My computer supports 4GB but will it affect my loading times and game play if I have 2GB vs. 4GB? This sounds really no brainer and I'm sure its a very easy question to answer.

I mean, 4GB sounds great so I kind of want to get that. If my system won't really see any improvements past 2GB then why bother?

 

[Tumbleweed36]

Re: How much RAM?

Frankly, 2 gigs should do all you want with WinXP for most normal computer usage. If you were in to Cad/Cam applications or other memory intensive applications similar to that type of usage (99% of us aren't in to that stuff), then you might need the extra memory, but otherwise, IMHO a waste of money.

If you had VISTA and in to gaming heavily or the aformentioned type programs such as Cad/Cam applications, then i would recommend the 4 gigs. That is my opinion on this issue.

 

[Neek]

Re: How much RAM?

That's cool. I am down with the 2gb.

Now when I do get the new ram, I think I'm just going to get this...
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148076

Should I replace the old ram that is already in my motherboard? I have 4 slots, and currently I have 2x 512mb ddr2 pc5300, so I could put the two that I have currently in the other 2 slots and put my new stuff in there too, or would it be best just to take it out and use the new stuff? Will having the 2 different kinds of ram interfere and make things slower?

 

[dai]

Re: How much RAM?

if you run both lots it will all run at the slower speed of the old ram

 

[Tumbleweed36]

Re: How much RAM?

I would take the old out and sell it on Ebay. Ram works as slow as the least capable stick(s), so you would be limiting your speed. I never mix ram, you are simply asking for trouble that you don't need, so use only one kind in a computer.

BTW, it is hard to advise you exactly on the ram speed since I don't know the specs of your rig. I can tell you that is great Ram, and I just installed 2 gigs of the same brand name (but, 1066) in my personal new build with a P5K-e Wi/Fi rig. I can verify the quality of this brand ram...it is great.

 

[Neek]

Re: How much RAM?

Nifty, I shall purchase the ram and take out my old stuff and see if it will sell on ebay.

Thank you very much for help.
-bow-