Optimal ram sizes?

[holopainen]

Hi,

I have an older computer, with an ASUS A8n-e mobo, an Athlon xp 64 3200+, and 2x512 mb KINGSTON (KVR400X64C3A/512) ram. I want to upgrade the system to 2 gb.
Which is better, if I add 2x 512mb modules, or one 1gb piece? Should I be concerned about the model number?
Can I just put in 2 pieces of 1gb rams so I have 3 gb? Would it make a difference in performance if the modules aren't the same size? Would it make a difference in windows 7 with these system specs if I have 3gb memory instead of 2 gb? Thanks in advance.

 

[Anas Bashar]

your motherboard supports 4GB of DDR 400 SDRAM, if you want to keep your current sticks and also keeping the dual channel configuration, get two sticks of 1GB SDRAM DDR400, then split your rams and put 1GB with 512MB sticks in each channel.
keeping the dual channel configuration is better performance wise, plus, you can get additional 2 sticks of 1GB rams and replace the old 512MB rams (i.e. better future plan).
just make sure that the new sticks are SDRAM DDR 400, and operating on the same voltage (2.6V).

 

[holopainen]

Thank you.

 

[Anas Bashar]

you are welcom,
after installation, go to the BIOS and check the frequencies, just to check everything is ok.