entranceInstall 2 operational memory. Is it possible to combine different levels of RAM in one computer
Two 4 GB strips in most cases work faster than one on 8 GB is as an example.
If you have successfully picked up and bought the RAM module you need, let's correctly install it on our computer. All items inside the system unit do not require significant physical efforts for their appeal, so relax a little. Before work, it will not be superfluous with the management of the attached to your motherboard, it must necessarily have its own instructions for installing RAM.
- Note: If you have a laptop, then read the article -.
First of all, we remove static electricity from yourself, touch your hands to the unpainted parts of your systemmer.
All actions We produce on a computer off. Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet. Remove the side cover of the system unit and find slots on the motherboard for RAM. Usually there are from two to four. Each RAM slot has special latches at the edges on both sides, they need to be carefully squeezed to the sides.
Note: The design of some motherboards is arranged in such a way that install RAM You will interfere with the video card, then remove it.
Now look carefully on any slot for installing RAM, it has a special protrusion.
And now, get the RAM module and you will see a special slot or deepening on it.
So, they squeezed two latches of the RAM slot, carefully insert our RAM module into the slot.
If you bought the RAM module correctly, then when installing the module in the slot intended for it on the motherboard, this neckline should accurately get into the protrusion. If the cutout and protrusion does not match, then the RAM module is not designed to work on this motherboard.
The module should get into the guides without any distortion, now the most responsible moment, slightly and gently press the module from the top of two sides with thumbs, it should get up on my place, and the latches must decline themselves.
If the latches are not stuck, look carefully, to the end of whether the module has entered the slot, if until the end, then fix the latch. I think everything is clearly visible on the exercises.
Let's remind you if you have two RAM modules with the same volume and identical characteristics, and the motherboard supports the two-channel operational memory mode, insert the modules into the same colored slots.
We put the lid of the system block back, connect all cables and turn on the computer.
How to extract RAM
If you need to remove the RAM from the slot, then it is very easy to do it, slide the snaps and remove the RAM module.
Instruction
Determine how much memory is already installed. Go to the Start menu and select "Settings", then "Control Panel" and "System". Select the General tab. The amount of memory installed on the computer will be shown at the bottom of the page.
Determine which type and amount of memory must be purchased. Refer to the user manual to find out the maximum amount of memory with which the computer can cope. The manual will also help select the necessary type and speed of memory. Buy operational memory via the Internet or at the local computer store.
Open the housing computer. Refer if necessary to manual. Remove all metal rings, clocks or bracelets. Turn off the computer, disconnect it from the electrical outlet, and then tap the metal housing to eliminate any static electricity discharges. An anti-static bracelet can also be used for this purpose.
Find the memory slots on the motherboard computer. If necessary, refer to the instruction manual. If there are no free slots, you will have to remove one or more of the installed memory cards to be able to add a new memory.
Install new memory. To do this, open the holders in the free slot and gently insert the memory card into it. Make sure that the memory card module is securely inserted into the slot, and secure the holders.
Test installed memory. Close the case and turn on the computer. If the computer begins to give a beep, then memory Installed incorrectly. Then repeat step 5 to make sure that memory securely inserted into the slot. If the installation has passed successfully, check that the system has identified a new amount of memory (step 1).
Increasing RAM (RAM) significantly improves computer performance. Moreover, it does not require knowledge about filling, it is enough just to accurately install the module in the motherboard slot.
You will need
- - memory module;
- - screwdriver.
Instruction
Purchase the appropriate RAM module. Modern computers use DDR, DDRII and DDRIII slats, featuring connectors and speed of work. To find out which type of memory is used in your PC in your passport, which was issued when purchasing.
Users often turn out to be needed to increase the amount of RAM when they start working with more demanding software. "RAM" is responsible for temporary storage of data required to perform current processor operations. Read more on how to increase the RAM, read in our material.
The volume of RAM depends on how easily and quickly the PC is coping with the work, the execution of several tasks at the same time.
The procedure for increasing the amount of RAM can be included in the purchase of additional memory cards or replacing already installed memory on the larger module. It is necessary to take into account such characteristics of RAM as type, clock frequency, and, of course, volume.
If you decide to install an additional bar of the RAM into your PC, it should be the same type as that that is already installed in the device. In addition, you need to know, the maximum amount of RAM, which supports the motherboard, processor.
The characteristics of the RAM installed in PC can be recognized using special utilities, such as Speccy or Everest. Either you can remove the cover of the housing of your PC and have a visual inspection. If only the name of the module is specified on the RAM bar, then using the network search you can find all the characteristics you need.
Type of RAM
The memory is different by speed: Modules of a newer type can be transmitted on each memory bus tact more information bits. Also different memory strips are distinguished visually.
In modern PCs, DDR2, DDR3 and DDR4 types are used. Types of SDRAM and DDR are older. And when modernizing the PC makes sense not to buy an additional bar of the same type, and it should be replaced with its new technology module. For money, it will be not very more expensive, but by speed, the plus will be tangible.
DDR3 differs from DDR2, for example, reduced power consumption. There is also a variety of DDR3L modules - with even lower energy consumption.
Carefully read the characteristics of the motherboard before purchasing a new RAM module, since the memory of different types will not be able to insert into the same slot on the motherboard due to different sections of the cutout on the planks. So, the SDRAM memory (unlike DDR modules) two cuts on the bottom edge of the board and 144 of the contact. The DDR 184 module of contact, DDR2 and DDR3 - 240, DDR4 - 288 contacts, but the key is shifted from the center to the left edge of the plank.
Frequency and timing
Frequency. This parameter depends on the amount of data that can be transmitted during a certain time, that is, the speed of operational memory. RAM frequency must match the one that supports the computer's motherboard.
Another important parameter characterizing the speed of operational memory is timing. It depends on the delay in processing the operation within the RAM. In the name of the RAM module, it can be written as a sequence of four numbers, for example, 9-9-9-24, or CL and a numerical value - the first digit of the 4-digit sequence, that is, the CL9 for the example above. The minimum timing value is good for playing PCs and computers for video editing. For PCs, designed to solve simple everyday tasks, the timing affects the work.
Slots for RAM
Before you buy an extra rapid memory card, you need to know if it is where to put it. And it depends on the number of free slots in your computer.
If the motherboard supports two-channel operation mode for RAM, you can use this to improve the speed. To do this, it is necessary to purchase more than one fee of the larger volume, but two are identical according to the characteristics of the module. Often manufacturers offer such sets (Kit). For example, not one 8-gigabyte module, but two 4 GB modules operating in two-channel mode. For users who increase the memory to play games or use "heavy" programs, it is important. If the PC is used to work with the office software, browser and to view the movies, you can safely buy one bar of RAM.
Also, today there are motherboards and RAM (Kit), supporting three-channel operation.
What else to take into account
When the RAM is also selected, it is also necessary to take into account the operating system on which you will work, since it depends on it and the minimum amount of the required RAM. For 32-bit Windows 7 and 8, not less than 1 GB of RAM, for 64-bit Windows 7 and 8 - at least 2 GB (GB), and for Windows XP - at least 64 MB of RAM.
What else to pay attention to when selecting RAM? On the manufacturer. It is better to choose the boards of proven manufacturers, for example, Corsair, Kingston, Hynix, Transcend, Ocz.
Installation
After you have opened the housing of the turned off PC and removed a static charge from hand, you can start installing an additional or new module / modules of RAM.
1. If you bought a set of two boards to work in two-channel mode, check in the characteristics of the motherboard, which slots need to be installed.
2. If you fully change the RAM, then get the memory: Open the slot latches from the two sides of the module, carefully holding the module for the side edges, remove it from the slot.
3. Insert the new module into the desired slot, aligning the cutout on the memory board with the connector. Longly push the module until the clamps fix it.
4. Repeat the last operation with the rest of the memory modules if they are available.
5. Close the PC housing.
If your computer works slowly, it hangs when working with programs and in games, then one of the best ways to increase its speed at the hardware level is to install additional RAM on the computer. In this article we will look at step by step The process of adding, replacing RAM.
Select the desired type of RAM
Before you go to the store for buying a new memory module, you need to find out which type of RAM is supported by your motherboard. There are the following types of RAM: DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR3 L and a new DDR4 type. They are differ in size, so if you buy not the same type, then it simply does not enter the connector.The DIMM (for desktop computers) and SODIMM (for laptops) is also underway.
To find out the type, you need to carefully read the instructions for the system board. If you have already installed memory modules, take one of them and find the sticker with the parameters. It specified the DDR type. Most modern computers have a DDR2 and DDR3 memory.
We consider the number of connectors for RAM on the motherboard
The number of slots for memory modules on the motherboard can be 2,4,6,8, and on the server motherboard and more. Most motherboards have 2-4 connectors. Attention should be paid to the maximum amount of memory that your motherboard supports.
We choose the manufacturer
Many companies are engaged in the development of RAM. The results of their labor are characterized by both the price and quality. We do not advise you to acquire the memory of little-known manufacturers.
In recent years, the following manufacturers have been popular:
Acquire RAM
Going to buying in a specialized computer store, you need to know exactly what kind of RAM I need and whether it will be compatible with the motherboard.
Preparation for RAM installation
Step 1. Disconnect the power of the computer. Disconnect all cables and cords connected to the housing rear panel.
(Monitor, Mouse, Keyboard, etc)
Step 2.. Remove the side cover from the housing. Place the computer housing so that it is convenient to work with it. It will be the most convenient if you put it on the side. Free access to the motherboard, carefully moving around the wires located nearby.
Step 3.. Next, you should get rid of static charges. They can damage the installed components on the motherboard. To do this, simply touch the housing or battery with your hand. For some, this advice may seem funny, someone will say that nothing will be and nothing will be damaged, but as they say "God saved", so it is better to progress and listen to the Council.
Step 4.. Find on the motherboard connectors for RAM. In modern boards, manufacturers make 2, 4 connector. These are the same connections in size and parallel to each other. As they look, you can look at the photo below.
Step 5.. If you change the old memory to a new one, then you need to remove the old module. Gently click on two white extreme latches. The module is free and it can be removed without difficulty.
Step 6.. Take a new bar memory, while still becomes not hurting chips and contacts located on it.
Today's note will be devoted to RAM ( operational storage device or just RAM). Sooner or later, each novice user is set with a question, and what it is, how to install or replace RAM. IT technology is rapidly developing and appetites from many applications over time increase and require more powerful system resources. For example, the same Mozilla Firefox browser starting from version 4.0 significantly increased the consumption of RAM, and the sites themselves are littered, a bunch of banners, which eat a lot of memory. According to my observations today, the minimum size for RAM is 1GB, well, so that it is easier to breathe. In general, the topic is important, so if your computer started the nerves in general, this is not necessarily a virus, overheating, or some other readiness. Perhaps it is time to increase the RAM.
RAM modules. For what and why?
For a start, a few words about the fact that the RAM at all represents and why it is needed. The computer consists of several components such as: motherboard, hard disk, processor, video card, power supply and even more this is attached to RAM. All these components constitute a single integer - PC. RAM is just one of the components of the general complex of components. But all the same memory elements, along with a set of system logic and a central processor, make up the basis of any PC, because they are stored for solving the task of the task that can be read or changed at any time. Moreover, it is precisely on the type of RAM, and not from the processor the speed of the system as a whole depends, which is primarily due to the rate of data transfer from RAM to the processor. Those, if the processor is quite modern, but the volume and frequency of RAM is small, then it will be a sense of processor power.
Run in the computer performs the role of an intermediary between the processor and a hard disk or any other external storage device. Why do you need this mediation? The thing is that all programs are performed directly in the processor. In turn, the Programs themselves are stored as files on Winchester. And before the program start and running, it will be executed, and more precisely, its files should get into the processor. The speed of reading from the hard disk is very small, so an operational storage device comes to the aid, the speed of which is several times higher than the hard drive. Even the name itself operative Says for himself. Files are read from a hard disk, then fall into RAM, the processor is transmitted and executed. The result of the execution most often we are visible on the screen. Those. RAM stores programs that are currently being performed. But how many of them can be there and how fast they will be performed dependent on the volume and speed of RAM.
Characteristics of RAM
RAM modules, as well as all components of the PC, have passed a long path of development, evolution so let's say. Therefore, I will not describe all its types, I will stop at modern.
So, today the type of RAM is widely used - DDR 2. and DDR 3.. The main characteristics that are volume and frequency. Which volume to choose? It all depends on what purpose PC is purchased for what purposes. On modern machines, the standard already from 2 gigabytes, Win7 and Vista operating systems on the minimum enabled set of functions use 512 MB of RAM, so if you plan to use these systems, it is better to stay on 2GB RAM. For XP, in principle, 1 GB will be enough. Frequency for type DDR 2.hesitated from 400 MHz - 800 MHz. For DDR 3.from 800 MHz - 1600 MHz. In general, the greater the better.
Where RAM is located, compatibility of slots, two-channel mode of operation
RAM is located on the motherboard. It is a small rectangular fee, which is inserted into special slots. Slots can be from two or more. As can be seen on the snapshot of the slots 4 in two of them inserted memory modules.
It is worth saying a few words about compatibility of RAM Slots In the modes of their work. Typically, the motherboard is focused on the same modules, which avoids errors in its operation. But many manufacturers make it possible to use different memory modules. But the type should be the same for example DDR 2.And the chips can work at different frequencies. But installing the modules of different frequencies, you get a situation where the memory runs on the minimum frequency for these modules. Those. If one module has a frequency of 400 MHz, and another 800 MHz, then in general memory will work at 400 MHz. The bandwidth of one module decreases, but at the same time the total volume increases.
Pay attention to the fact that the slots differ in color and are broken as if on the pair. This is not by chance.
Motherboards allow you to work in the so-called two-channel mode. In order to use dual-channel operational memory operation, It is necessary that the modules are inserted into the slots of the same color and were the same frequency, volume and preferably the manufacturer to also be one. In some cases, it allows you to achieve 20-30% of the increase in memory speed.
Installation, replacement of RAM
If you often fly out the blue screen of death, and the memory check on the error showed a malfunction, in which case it is necessary to replace the memory module. I pull out the bar, after opening the special clamps on the slot.
Or, for example, you noticed the brakes in the PC, with the help of the program, they found out that there is a constant shortage of the volume of RAM, in this case it is worth adding another module. But before this, check may be in mind a lot of unnecessary applications that are written in autoload. Overheating can also cause hanging and brakes.
The installation is very simple. The design of the slot itself does not allow it wrong. The fact is that all modules and slots have the so-called key or recess. From the model to the model, the location of this key is changing, so the module DDR. will not get insert in DDR2.
You began to notice that your computer began to work slower, and the open tabs in the browser are started to reboot when achieving some number? Well, the moment has come to realize that the volume of the currently installed RAM is not enough for you, and is the time to produce an upgrade of this important component of the computer. So, how to increase the amount of RAM - in our article.
As already mentioned, the amount of RAM directly affects the speed of operation and the stability of the system as a whole. However, the main task of RAM is to ensure simultaneous work with as much information as possible. In other words, the more RAM - the more tabs in the browser you can open without rebooting them, the more terrace will be drawn in games, the more documents you can open at the same time. Despite all the seeming disability, this component is very important, and think about the upgrade.
How to choose a memory capacity for a computer
And you need to think about this upgrade, based on modern realities and needs specifically of your programs.
Comfortable minimum recognized by most people - 8 GB. If you work with some kind of resourceable program, you can think about the larger amount of RAM, but it is already special cases. So, proceed to the replacement process or add RAM to your computer.
Theory and pitfalls
It is worth walking along the theory and possible difficulties that may arise in the upgrade process.
First you need to know what we can put into your computer. To do this, you need to diagnose and find out the model of the motherboard, as well as the memory characteristics set at the current moment.
Note!You can also pay attention to the number of slots on the motherboard and how many of them are occupied. Memory not only can be replaced, if there are free slots, you can simply add additional planks to them - and ready!
Deciding with the type, it is worth familiar with typical underwater stones in the selection of RAM. Many of them successfully mark somewhere at the stage of viewing the characteristics of the motherboard on the manufacturer's website, but it is still possible to run into incompatible and non-working modules.
First of all, relate memory and processor. This is rare, but still happens - memory and processor can also be incompatible. You can go to the manufacturer's website of your processor (you can find out its model in the same AIDA64, in the CPU tab), and if the site search did not give results, you can write in its technical support, specifying accurate processor and memory models. In most cases, you will be answered, and even fast enough.
Important! Never buy modules from AMD if you have an Intel processor! The percentage of incompatibility with this configuration is shrinking for 50%, and even though it means that in half the cases everything will be fine, it is still better not to risk.
Also worth paying attention to whether you can use your modules in two-channel mode. Without it, everything works fine too, but if you buy the same planks and stuck them into symmetric slots - everything will become much better and faster.
Well, all you needed to know about RAM, you now know. You can go to the installation of new modules.
Installing Memory to Computer
- Open the system block housing. To do this, unscrew the locking screws of the side cover and slide it back.
- Inspect the inner state of the computer. You can get rid of dust, since I still looked at the same time - this, you agree, it happens not so often. You can do this with a vacuum cleaner or a cylinder with compressed air.
Important! However, be extremely careful: do not damage the fees, they have very thin paths.
- RAM is usually located to the right of the processor and is oriented vertically. Find it, relying on this drawing as aid.
- See the latches on the ends of the planks? Carefully, not making extra effort, remove them with your fingers to the sides. After that, old modules must slightly lift over the slots, after which they are very easy to extract. Do it.
- Note the position in the key slot: when installing new slats, stick it to it, and insert the bar in the slot only after making sure that the key and cutout coincide. This is a rather important point: in case of its non-compliance, you risk damage to the bar, and quite seriously.
- Install new memory into slots. Slightly pressed on it from the top end, achieve the side locks to snap down, come to its original position. As soon as it happens - we close the system unit and turn it on.
- After downloading the system, go to AIDA64 or the usual properties of the system and reiterate memory information if the volume corresponds to what you are installed, then everything is good and the memory has been determined successfully. Ready!
Video - How to Add Retail Memory to Computer
Most novice users are confident that the more rAM volumeThe speeds of the computer above. However, the speed of the computer still directly depends on the proper selection and installation of components. Proper selection I. install RAM modules - The most important condition for the successful work of your computer.
In this article, we will consider the questions of choice and methods for installing RAM and its competent layout in motherboard connectors .
Recommendations applicable to all types and types of memory:
- install memory modules with the same volume;
- modules must match the frequency of work (MHz), otherwise they will all work at the frequency of the slowest memory;
- combine timings, latency (delays) of memory;
- Memory modules are better than one manufacturer and one model.
All these tips are not necessarily strictly fulfilled, there are different cases. Even if the memory modules differ from each other by the manufacturer, the volume and frequency of work - this does not mean that they will not work. In this case, there are no special secrets of the layout of memory - it is enough to install them.
There are also no features when installing already outdated types of memory types SDRAM(here the main rule is the more, the better).
But in modern computers, motherboards support special rAM operational memory modes. It is in these modes that the speed of operational memory will be the most efficient. Therefore, to achieve the best speed, the modes of operation of memory modules should be taken into account and their proper installation.
RAM operational memory modes
Single Chanell Mode.
Single Mode. (single Channel or asymmetric mode) - This mode turns on when only one memory module is installed in the system or all modules differ from each other by memory, frequency or manufacturer. It does not matter what connectors and what memory to install. The whole memory will work at the speed of slower from the installed memory.
If only one module, it can be installed in any memory connector:
Two or three different memory modules can also be installed in any configuration:
Such a mode is more needed when there is already an RAM already there, and in the first place is to increase the amount of memory and saving money, and not the achievement of the best performance of the computer. If you only have to buy a computer, it is better to avoid such a memory installation.
Dual Chanell Mode.
Dual Mode. (two-channel or symmetrical mode) - Each channel is installed the same amount of RAM. Modules are selected by frequency of work. To facilitate the installation, on motherboards, the DIMM connectors for each channel differ in color. And next to them is written the name of the connector, and sometimes the channel number. Also, the purpose of the connectors and their location through the channels is necessarily indicated in the manual of the motherboard. The total amount of memory is equal to the total volume of all installed modules. Each channel is served by its memory controller. The system performance increases by 5-10% compared with a single-channel mode.
Dual Mode. It can be implemented using two, three or four DIMM modules.
If two identical memory modules are used, they should be connected to the connectors of the same name (in one color) from different channels. For example, one module is installed in the connector 0 canal A., and the second - in the connector 0 canal B.:
That is, to turn on the mode Dual Channel. (Mode with alternation) The necessary conditions should be performed:
- on each channel of the memory is installed the same DIMM module configuration;
- Memory is inserted into symmetric channel connectors ( Slot 0. or Slot 1.).
Similarly, three memory modules are installed - the total amounts of memory in each channel are among themselves (the memory in the channel A. equal to volume in the channel B.):
And for four modules, the same condition is performed. It works like two parallel dual modes:
Triple Chanell Mode.
Triple Mode. (three-channel mode) - In each of the three DIMM channels, the same amount of RAM is installed. Modules are selected in speed and volume. On motherboards supporting three-channel memory mode, 6 memory connectors are usually installed (two for each channel). Sometimes there are motherboards with four connectors - two connectors constitute one channel, two others are connected to the second and third channel, respectively.
With six or three RAM connectors, the installation is also simple as with two-channel mode. When installed four memory connectors, three of which can work in Triple Mode., Memory should be installed in these connectors.
Flex Mode.
Flex Mode. (flexible mode) - Allows you to increase the performance of the RAM, when installing two modules of various volumes, but the same in frequency of work. As in dual-channel memory board mode, the connectors of different channels are installed in the same connectors. For example, if there are two memory strips of 512MB and 1GB, then one of them should be installed in the slot 0
canal A.and the second - in the slot 0
canal B.:
In this case, the 512MB module will work in a dual mode with a memory capacity of 512MB of the second module, and the remaining 512MB from 1 gigabyte module will operate in one-channel mode.
These are all recommendations for combining RAM. The layout options can be more, it all depends on the amounts of RAM, the model of the motherboard and on your financial capabilities. Motherboards with support appeared on sale four-channel mode Memory operations - this will give you the maximum performance of the computer!
(English) We went through the basic concepts and characteristics of RAM. In this article, we want to affect topics that often cause controversy, and let's try to figure out the following myths and allegations:
- All DDR3 memory is the same
- You just need to add more RAM
- There are only a few DIMM manufacturers.
- Support DDR-3200 means you can use any RAM
- When installing different modules, RAM operates at speed (timings) of the slowest DIMM
- Cheaper to buy two DIMM sets than one big and expensive set
- RAM works faster when all the slots are busy
- RAM is faster than 1600 mt / s does not give productivity growth
- Volume 8 GB is enough for the next ten years
- You will never be able to use 16 GB of memory
- I do not use all the available memory, so additional memory will not give acceleration
- 64-bit OS allows you to use any volume of RAM
- RAM with a voltage of 1.65 V can damage Intel processors
- Two-channel mode doubles the data transfer rate, that is, RAM is twice as fast
MIFES ON RAM | All DDR3 memory is the same
One this topic deserves a separate article, but we will try to discuss it in brief and denote several theses.
- Recall the RAM line Kingston Fury, which is not equipped with a XMP profile and instead use Plug and Play technology. Modules have a reasonable price, look beautiful, equipped with multi-colored radiators and are aimed at users of old systems that would like to update RAM. But since this memory is based on PNP, it will work only with some chipsets: H67, P67, Z68, Z77, Z87 and H61 from Intel, along with AMD A75, A87, A88, A89, A78 and E35. Also here you can add z87 and z97. The list of chipsets is taken from the company's website.
- Chips themselves are also distinguished:
- Most of the RAM produced today uses high-density 4 Gbps memory chips, and in the old DDR3, the chips of a smaller density of 2 Gbps are installed. Old memory controllers can only work with low density chips. One of our editors recently found that none of the motherboards on the logic P55 did not want to work with its 8 GB modules. And if you install memory with different characteristics, the module may not determine or lose stability.
- Memory chips produce many companies that adhere to their own specifications. Each chip line is tested or subjected to binning, and in accordance with the quality of the chip marked and stands out in various series.
Usually, we recommend cheating with RAM manufacturers data, which spend a lot of time on memory testing on various system boards. Manufacturers of motherboards also provide lists of certified suppliers (QVL) RAM, the products of which they checked on a specific board. But usually this lists indicate a small number of manufacturers whose memory was in the laboratory. Therefore, it is better to check with a list of memory manufacturer. You can find many useful tips and recommendations on RAM modules for hotel platforms and Matthew, as well as information about their speed and compatibility with various processors.
MIFES ON RAM | You just need to add more RAM
JEDEC is the Association of Electronic Device Manufacturers and Developers, which establish industry standards for everywhere adaptation among their members. Since some RAM manufacturers exceeded the installed JEDEC maximum DDR3-1600 CAS 11 (and later CAS 9) and offer more rigid timings and higher data transmission rates, mixing different RAM modules have not been such a simple task, as was originally assumed.
Simply put, mixing modules of RAM from various sets does not give warranty of stable operation, even if you have two identical set of one model line. We want to add that DIMM modules that work well together, often, but not always, you can get to work with the help of voltage adjustment and / or timings. For article "DDR3 memory: how to improve system performance?" Two companies instead of a single set of 2 GB RAM with a speed of 2400 mt / s sent us a couple of identical modules sets in a 2 x 8 GB configuration. Initially, they did not work together, but with the help of minor adjustments we have achieved a positive result.
What is the problem? After all, the modules have the same frequencies, timings and tension.
DRAM mainly consists of memory chips soldered to the printed circuit board. In the process of producing the RAM of a certain model, the manufacturer can spend some batch of printed circuit boards, and then go to the new PCB from another production batch, which as a result may reflect on a number of characteristics.
The same can happen with the shift. The manufacturer can start using another type that has a slightly modified conducting properties.
Also, the crystals themselves can be different. In the process of producing chips, binging pass, that is, the sorting in accordance with their quality.
Let's consider this concept from a theoretical point of view. In one production party can be, say, 1000 memory chips, which are divided or binning. 200 chips The manufacturer can classify as elementary chips, 350 a little better, 300 chips are even better and 150 first-class chips. Then they sell these chips to different manufacturers of memory modules.
If you buy DDR3-1866 memory modules from several companies, then most likely you will get different PCBs, solder with various conductive properties and, quite possibly, chips of different levels from different manufacturers.
Memory chips themselves produce several different companies that only aggravates the compatibility problem. Probably, you already understand why the mixing of different RAM modules often cause problems.
We also noticed that most of the new Linek RAM use chips with a density of 4 Gbps, while old rules are 2 Gbps.
MIFES ON RAM | There are only a few DIMM manufacturers.
This is at the same time myth and delusion. There are several manufacturing companies of memory chips and many RAM module manufacturers. There are modules of RAM made by one or several companies for other firms. For example, AMD RADEON RAM is produced by Patriot and VisionTek.
MIFES ON RAM | Support DDR-3200 means you can use any RAM
To use the expensive memory of 3200 Mt / with you need a processor that will be able to cope with such a high data rate. Otherwise, memory will only work in modes 1333, 1600 or 1866.
In the time of processors Intel LGA 775, the acceleration of the CPU and RAM was performed, first of all, due to the FSB (system tire). Suppose you have the Q6600 processor and your motherboard supports FSB 1066 MHz. In this case, the processor will operate at a native frequency of 2.4 GHz, and the memory at a speed of 1066 mt / s. If you want to dispersed the processor by increasing the FSB frequency to 1333, it will work at a frequency of 3 GHz, and the memory in mode 1333 MT / s. In other words, the speed speed was limited to the FSB frequency limit. The memory controller was in the chipset, more often in the northern bridge of the motherboard, and also worked at the FSB frequency.
Today, the memory controller moved to the CPU. So the main objective factor in memory on advertised frequencies is CPU. The processors on the basis of the Haswell architecture are designed for the DDR3-1600 memory, and the medium and top-level chips that do not belong to the K series, as a rule, can consistently work with memory up to 1866 - 2133 mt / s. The processors of the K series can be accessed, and their controllers support modules with an increased data rate targeted on enthusiasts.
The current line of FX processors from AMD supports "up to 1866 Mt / s per DIMM channel". However, you may encounter problems when starting memory in 1866 mode on the initial processors, and sometimes an average level. This is partly due to the fact that the FX processor memory controller is optimized for DDR3-1333 (according to BIOS and Kernel Programming Guide). Like any other processor, FX chips can be overclocked to work with speeds even higher than DDR3-1866, but it will negatively affect stability.
MIFES ON RAM | When installing different modules, RAM operates at speed (timings) of the slowest DIMM
Suppose you have a DDR3-1600 CAS 9 module and you add another module, but already 1866 CAS 9. This can lead to the fact that RAM will work on the settings specified by the default motherboard, that is, 1333 CAS 9 or 10 (Many AMD motherboards use 1066 by default). Either both modules will operate in 1600 CAS 9 (10 or even 11) if DOCP, EOCP, XMP or AMP are included before installing the DDR3-1866 module.
But you can also set the parameters manually. As a rule, in such scenarios, we would try the mode of 1866 at 10-10-10-27, increasing a bit of voltage, approximately + 0.005 V. Depending on the results, you can adjust the voltage of the memory controller.
MIFES ON RAM | Cheaper to buy two DIMM sets than one big and expensive set
Even if you buy two identical set, there is no guarantee that they will work together. RAM modules that are sold in one set were tested for compatibility. Manufacturers do not guarantee the performance of mixed sets, even if they use the same models of memory modules.
Buyers are often made with high-speed modules and in the setting rely on XMP. When you turn on the XMP motherboard, you can read the profile of two RAM scheduling and set secondary timings accordingly, but the TRFC timings for the operation of two modules may have a value of 226, while the value of four modules will require value 314. This problem is difficult to detect because users are rare Enter in the settings of secondary timings.
MIFES ON RAM | RAM works faster when all the slots are busy
Two RAM strips give a smaller load on the memory controller than four. Less electricity required, the memory controller needs less voltage for stable operation, and RAM, usually running a little faster, although it is not noticeable. The same applies to three- and four-channel system boards. Users are often mistaken, considering that four DIMM modules (often sold as four-channel sets) always work in four-channel mode, although two-channel motherboards in principle cannot work like that.
MIFES ON RAM | RAM is faster than 1600 mt / s does not give productivity growth
The loyalty of this statement depends on several factors. For processors with a built-in graphics core or APU, it is completely incorrect, since the video card uses the system memory, and how it is faster - the better!
Most of the RAM tests measure the speed of reading, writing and copying. Many game tests when changing RAM 1600 to 2133 demonstrate the frame rate of 3 to 5 FPS. This is due to the fact that most of the games of RAM are mainly used as a channel for transmitting information to the GPU, as well as a buffer for frequently used data. The fact remains a fact, the RAM may increase the FPS slightly. Since the price difference between the memory of 1600 and 2133 is not always big, sometimes buying more quickly RAM can be justified.
In addition, the WinRar archiver takes data from RAM and squeezes them into RAM before writing to the disk. When changing the DDR3-1600 memory to 2400 speed gain in tests using WinRAR, can reach 25 percent. There are many other applications intensively using memory: video editing, work with images, CAD and so on. Even a slight advantage in speed will help save time if you are working in such applications.
If you use a PC in an office one-handing mode, for example, you make notes, then view the web page, after viewing the video, then you definitely do not need a faster RAM. If you prefer to work in multitasking mode, for example, you simultaneously open a bunch of browser tabs, while you work with large tables or watch the video in the window, or work with images and perform tests for viruses in the background, then faster memory can bring Certain benefits.
You can check it yourself by running a few such applications with a memory of 1600 mt / s, and then with faster RAM. When you download multiple applications, run the benchmark, for example, Sisoftware Sandra and simultaneously archive a large file using WinRAR. While these tasks are running, go through the Windows open windows, then check the Sandra results and the execution time of archiving.
MIFES ON RAM | Volume 8 GB is enough for the next ten years
If you really do not like multitasking, then 8 GB will be enough. But this does not apply to gamers and enthusiasts. Five years ago there were enough 2 GB, then 4 GB and so on.
Another fact: computers manufacturers often spill on RAM. For example, when 2 GB seemed enough, they installed 1 GB. Today, 6 - 8 GB of RAM is considered the norm and 16 GB is also not uncommon, therefore, it is unlikely that the level of 8 GB will long stretch as standard. Games use more and more RAM. If you collect a new system and want it to not lose relevance for several years, we recommend 16 GB of RAM.
MIFES ON RAM | You will never be able to use 16 GB of memory
This error is the continuation of the previous one, but more refers to applications that intensively using RAM, as well as to those who work with large amounts of files and data. The more RAM you have, the more data it can hold for instant re-access, instead of accessing the file on the hard disk or to the network for reloading.
Many people engage in the system more than 20 GB of memory at the same time almost every day, and it becomes the norm among the participants of the Tom's Hardware Forum, which often discuss the possibility of maximizing the performance of their RAM sets on 8 and 16 GB.
Remember also that manufacturers conduct many studies and in contact with software developers and users. Therefore, the fact that modern system boards are developed taking into account support for RAM of 32 GB, 64 GB and 128 GB (or more), of course, have its own reasons.
MIFES ON RAM | I do not use the whole RAM, so additional memory will not give acceleration
In some situations, an increase in the volume of RAM can speed up the execution of some processes. Many programs regulate the amount of data stored in memory, depending on the amount of available RAM, so that the larger RAM saves the time, accompanied by more frequently used data in RAM (and not on the hard disk). It can be especially useful when you work on projects with a variety of images or video, CAD, GIS, with virtual machines, etc. Another advantage of a large amount of RAM is the ability to create a RAM disk to download games, applications and other data. Such a disk has its own hidden disadvantages, but many users are delighted with this opportunity.
MIFES ON RAM | 64-bit OS allows you to use any volume of RAM
Many people believe that with a 64-bit operating system, an endless RAM volume can be used, but it is not. As an example, we give restrictions on the volume of RAM in Windows 7:
| Limitations of RAM in Windows 7 | ||
| x86 (32-bit) | x64 (64-bit) | |
| Windows 7 Ultimate. | 4 GB | 192 GB |
| Windows 7 Enterprise | 4 GB | 192 GB |
| Windows 7 Professional | 4 GB | 192 GB |
| Windows 7 Home Premium | 4 GB | 16 GB |
| Windows 7 Home Basic | 4 GB | 8 GB |
| Windows 7 Starter. | 2 GB | does not exist |
And in Windows 8:
| RAM restrictions in Windows 8 | ||
| x86 (32-bit) | x64 (64-bit) | |
| Windows 8 Enterprise. | 4 GB | 512 GB |
| Windows 8 Professional | 4 GB | 512 GB |
| Windows 8. | 4 GB | 128 GB |
MIFES ON RAM | 1.65V voltage memory may damage Intel processors
Intel recommends 1.50 V stress memory and a certain data transfer rate. For Haswell is DDR3-1600. However, confuses the fact that Intel also certifies RAM (even DDR3-1600), which works at a voltage of 1.60 and 1.65 volts. Keep in mind that the voltage is 1.60 - 1.65 V is considered the norm for RAM standard DDR3-2133 and higher.
Most of the memory with a lower data transfer rate (for example, DDR3-1333 and 1600) use a voltage of 1.50 V or less. We recommend to refrain from buying RAM with such speeds if its voltage is 1.65 V, as this may mean that the manufacturer used the cheapest and low-quality memory chips. Why do RAM with good chips generally need voltage 1.60 -1.65 V? To save yourself more from problems in the future, we would recommend not to buy DDR3- 1866 memory, the voltage of which exceeds 1.50 V, unless it has lowered timings (CL7 or CL8).
MIFES ON RAM | Two-channel mode doubles the data transfer rate, that is, RAM is twice as fast
This is another misconception. When you install two strips in two-channel mode, the memory controller does not perceive RAM as two separate 64-bit devices, and as one 128-bit device. Theoretically, it should double throughput, but in practice the speed increase is 20-50 percent on Intel processors and a little less on AMD chips.
This article is written with the participation of many members of the forum, but they are too much to list everyone. We would also like to thank the wonderful employees of such companies as Corsair, G.skill and Team Group, whose knowledge and experience in this area helped us very much.
As always, comments and constructive criticism to the article are welcome.