how much 1866 ram can the z68 extreme 3 gen 3 handle?

[charlesmusicproductions]

I have z68 extreme 3 Gen 3 i5 2500k...
I have 2× 4 gb 1866 crosiar vengeance..I want to go to at least 16 gb...will this be possible or will hurt more than it helps?
Alternatively would it be better to just add 2× 2gb cv 1866 for a total of 12gb ?
Thanks!

 

[WyomingKnott]

First, before I look up your board, a general answer. An experienced overclocker (not me!) will generally tell you that system memory runs faster with 2 modules than with 4, and with 4 modules that came in a matched kit than with four random modules or two matched pairs.

From what I've seen posted, though, the effect ranges from significant to "only noticeable in benchmarks," with significant being rare. What I mean by that is that dropping in mismatched extra memory is much more likely to help than to hurt if your system needs memory. You would get the best possible results from a matched pair of 8 GB modules, followed by a matched quartet of 4 GB modules, followed by what you are suggesting doing. The cost of mismatched memory varies from not noticeable to "oh, crap" and you have to try it and see.

EDIT: I looked up the board. It can take up to 4 modules and up to 32 GB, so it will handle 2 GB, 4 GB, or 8 GB modules just fine. It's dual-channel, so be sure to match the modules: Put the two 4 GB modules in the first slot for each channel (which is almost certainly where they are now), and the two 2 GB modules in the second slot for each channel.

 

[George Mulligan]

It can handle up to 32GB, maximum of 8GB per slot- 16GB would work on one channel of course.

 

[charlesmusicproductions]

Thanks a lot all.. I had forgot I posted this and found it on my stress full travels..thanks! I'm gonna go ahead and add another 2×4 gb for a total of 16.. thanks a lot!

 

[charlesmusicproductions]

Also does dual channel work side by side or in every second slot? They are (l)(0)(l)(0) is this right? Thanks again

 

[WyomingKnott]

See the manual at ftp://66.226.78.21/manual/Z68%20Extreme3%20Gen3.pdf , my interpretation is alternating.