RAM - 1 GB Stick or 2 512's

[IS300]

We are trying to upgrade the RAM on our SQL server, but unfortunately it only supports 2 GB, which is what we have already.

But that 2 GB is split between 2 X 512 and 4 X 256 for 6 pieces. Would it make a big difference changed that and installed 1x2GB stick or 2x1GB sticks?

The speed is PC2100/266Mhz.

Thanks.

 

[cdogg]

It depends on the motherboard. Some benchmarks I've seen in the past show different results. In some applications, having 4 memory sticks instead of 2 performed better, and in other apps, it was the other way around.

So having more memory on each stick, with less sticks overall may or may not make much difference. Doing what you suggested does cause less stress on the memory controller at times, but then you have the downside of higher densities in each stick.

Unfortunately unless you can find a review of your SQL server's motherboard somewhere out on the net, that's probably the best answer you're going to find...

~cdogg
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein
[tab][navy]For general rules and guidelines to get better answers, click here:[/navy] faq219-2884

 

[electronicsfreak]

Well extending on some of what cdogg said , if your board supports dual channel , and it supports dual channel up to 2GB, then I would reccomend 2 1GB sticks (for dual channel they must be exact same and in corrresponding spots as the manual says) . As dual channel will increase your speed.

 

[cdogg]

I don't believe dual channel came into play until DDR 400 was mainstream. Since the user is only running their memory at 266MHz, it would seem that the processor and/or chipset was from the "pre-" dual-channel days.

Just a thought...

~cdogg
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein
[tab][navy]For general rules and guidelines to get better answers, click here:[/navy] faq219-2884

 

[electronicsfreak]

Ah good point, I didnt see that part my bad lol. Your probally right on that.

 

[cdogg]

No problem! lol

~cdogg
"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." - Albert Einstein
[tab][navy]For general rules and guidelines to get better answers, click here:[/navy] faq219-2884