Question about RAM.

Currently running on 1GB (2x512MB)DDR PC3200 RAM.
A friend has given me 1GB (2x512MB) DDR PC2700.
My motherboard supports both speeds. Also supports dual channel memory.
I know that the 3200 will clock down to the 2700 speed.
Question is " Would it be a better idea to put the 2700 or the 3200 into the 'A' position slots? "

 

I haven't seen any specific recommendations. If I was to make a choice, I would put in the 3200.

 

Me too. But I would look in the motherboard manual first.

 

Just was wondering about how the lower latency(clock speeds) of the 2700 would compare.
PC2700= 2.5-2.5-2.5-7
PC3200= 3-3-3-8

 

I only know the basics about CAS latency. You could check in the BIOS for what has automatically been set as default (probably 3-3-3-8). You may be able to adjust that slightly, but which set of slots you use, I doubt would have any effect.

My original suggestion was based on older motherboards that preferred larger (more Megabytes) RAM modules located in the first slots. As Bill said, you may gain some sort of insight from reading in the manual. Some say to to fill "X and Y" (matching) slots first. I thought the faster (better bandwidth) RAM would be best located in the first slots. CAS latency will rise as speed/bandwidth rises. For example, to get PC3200 that runs at something like 2.5-2.5-2.5-7, it will be higher quality. If you force the chips above their standard (overclock them) it may reduce their lifespan. It sounds though, that you want to achieve better performance by setup (the physical location of the modules).

I haven't seen any research along those lines. You can start your own if you like . Run benchmarks on the different locations. Unfortunately, you might find minimal advantages (unless you go into overclocking).

Matt

 

That's true, but note to take advantage of dual-channel, if the motherboard supports it, the first pair of sticks might go in slots 1 and 3, and not 1 and 2 - again depending on the motherboard, so again, a look in the manual would be in order.

 

To Bill
Already knew about the slot differences. One set was white, other black.
To all
Question about latency and speeds went out the window.When I stated PC2700, I was going by what my friend said they were. He was wrong. Now running on 2GB of PC3200.

 

Nice surprise

 

Wise decision.