512 or 1gb ? 1 or 2 sticks ?

[lightswitch]

I've tried to do some reading on the subject but I'm having no luck. I'm going to be making a new machine soon and I'm uncertain what I should do about the RAM. I will be getting either a 2.6 or 2.8 ghz p4, which will be used for some gaming, and then just the general internet activities of today. I already want to get RAM with a CAS rating of 2.5, but I need the following questions answered please :

- 512mb or 1gb? Running XP, no linux or anything, and with my plans for the computer will 512mb be good enough?

- Do I need to get 2 similar sticks or could I just get 1 stick of RAM (2x256,2x512 VS 1x512,1x1024)? The mobo will have 2 ram slots, but I'm confused if I'm required to use 2 sticks or what. I also think I've read that two sticks will work faster as opposed to one stick? Some clarity would be nice please!

Thanks in advance.

 

[ytoledano]

Get 2 sticks, I'd say some value PC3200 DDRAM but make sure it's from a brand name (Crucial, Corsair, Kingston, OCZ). Buy the sticks as a pair, they would be named dual-channel sticks or something, you can buy 2 identicle sticks and put them together, but if you're affraid you'd screw it up somehow, just buy them as a pair. GL

Got a nice overclocked overvolted system to keep you warm at night? That's great. Guess I'll have to settle for a woman...

 

[sirak]

Get two identical 512mb sticks and run them in dual channel mode. Definitely the best option. If you are looking for a motherboard, try the ASUS P4P800 too. It is nice and stable (at least with my system since I got it in July) and can overclock quite well.

----------------------
PIV 2.4c @ 2.88ghz
1gig PC3200 (512mbx2)
ASUS P4P800
GF3 Ti200 64mb (soon to be replaced)
WinXP Pro
3DMark2001SE: 6300
3DMark2003: 688

 

[Crashman]

Most decent motherboards have 4 RAM slots. Since the P4 is bandwidth hungry, I suggest you get a Dual Channel board, the Abit IS7 is the best deal on an Intel chipset boards (based on features, performance and price).

512MB is fine, 1GB is better, under XP. 2 matching sticks are needed for dual channel mode.

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