What
memory type do I need for my desktop or laptop computer?
The memory type you
choose for your computer will depend on your hardware and the memory
slots you have available to you. Modern desktops and laptops typically
use either DDR, DDR2, or DDR3 memory. Desktop DDR memory uses 184-pins.
Desktop DDR2 and DDR3 memory uses 240-pins. For laptops DDR and DDR2
memory comes in 200-pins while laptop DDR3 memory uses 204-pins. You can
check the documentation of your computer to see exactly what type of
memory you can support. A great way to figure out your memory type is to
read the labeling (if available) on the memory you already are using in
your computer and match the module type.
What
does maximum memory module size mean?
Every memory slot can
be thought of as having a "maximum" memory size you can put into it.
It's best not to exceed this maximum module size to ensure that the
memory you purchase will work as intended. In some cases the maximum
size of memory per slot in your system will be specified for you. In
other cases the total amount of memory that your computer can support
will be specified and you can divide that amount across your slots. For
example, if your motherboard can support up to 4GB of memory and you
have two slots, the maximum memory size you can use is 2GB in each slot
(2GB in each slot X 2 slots = 4GB).
Do I have to install DDR,
DDR2, or DDR3 memory in pairs?
With DDR1, DDR2, and
DDR3 memory you DO NOT have to install your memory in pairs (matching or
otherwise). If your motherboard supports it, though, you may be
able to take advantage of certain technologies & performance boosts by
installing multiple memory modules (such as Dual Channel or Triple
Channel operation, etc.)
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