Dual channel DDR question

[timmay3141]

I'm going to be building a computer soon but I am confused about dual-channel DDR. For example, if I were to buy 2, 512MB sticks of Corsair XMS PC3200, could I use them in dual channel with an Asus P4C800? Basically what I'm asking is can regular DDR memory work in dual channel, or do you have to buy memory specifically made for dual channel?

 

[paparazi]

The matched pair of memory modules don't have to be expensive Corsair but be warned, many of these new motherboards are picky on memory types, so it is advisable to visit the Asus website, in this case, and check for a recommended list of memory that is known to work.
In purchasing a cutting edge high performance motherboard, like the Asus P4C800 you would be well advised to buy quality ram to run on it, buying cheap generic memory would be like buying remold tires for a Porche.
Martin

Replying helps further our knowledge, without comment leaves us wondering.

 

[wpfaff]

According to Asus the following Corsair 400 DDR chips are qualified for optmium speed and reliability for this board.

256MB CORSAIR CMX256A-3500C2 Winbond W942508BH-5

512MB CORSAIR CMX512-3500C2 Winbond W942508BH-5256MB

You can use only 1 set of 2 of the above chips on the board.

You also can use PC3200/PC2700/PC2100 ECC/ Non-ECC DDR SDRAM memory.

Go to this link for more info:

http://usa.asus.com/products/mb/socket478/p4c800-e_d/overview.htm

Scroll down about 3/4 of the page.

 

[antialias]

You can try Asus P4P800 which has a i865 chipset. Guys in Asus claim that they have activated PAT(Performance Accelaration Technology). Test results of a computer magazine shows that they are saying the truth. So you will have more money to spend on RAMs

 

[timmay3141]

I went to that site, and I think I get it now. If you insert 2 DIMMs of any kind of supported RAM into corresponding slots, it will use them as dual channel. If you insert 1 DIMM into a slot, it will use it as single channel. Is this correct?

 

[wpfaff]

Yep that's about right. Be sure that when you purchase your memory either buy a dual channel kit or that both modules have the same specs. Including cas latency(cl), buffered or non-buffered, ECC, Parity or non-parity and Mega Bytes. Even then there isn't a guarentee that they will work in dual channel mode. As long as you stick to the memory sticks that are on the Asus website you should be ok.

If your going for speed look for a CL=2 the bigger number the more clock cycles it takes to move data through memory. The memory will come with a data sheet and will give the timing that you may have to enter in your bios setup to get optimal results. You don't need parity unless your building a server and ECC will slow down your system somewhat, why pay extra for those features if not needed. Also a heat spreader isn't necessary unless your going to overclock your processor and your case provides a good air flow to your memory chips.

Good Luck on your build.