How bad is cheap RAM?

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Sturdy

Sturdy

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js427
I currently have 512MB(2x256) of SEITEC (no, not saitek) RAM, it is 184 pin pc3200, DDR400. I recently bought some surprisingly reasonable RAM, same DDR400, PC3200 but now 2x1GB. I was expecting a sizeable performance increase to say the least, but alas after putting the RAM into the PC, it took the poor thing over 30minutes to even log on, and it hadn't even loaded the background image, or the other 3 toolbars i have, let alone any programs. (It previously took about 80-90 seconds to be completely started up, all programs running). It couldn't even support the animated cursor smoothly. I have a P4 Northwood CPU (2.4 running @ 2.8), and an MSI motherboard. Am i missing something that i should have configured, or could the RAM really be that bad? Please help!
 
It could be something not setup correctly in the BIOS or it could just be crap RAM/RAM that isn't compatible with the other stuff. I recently bought 2x512 of Geil value RAM for my 'new' PC which is pretty cheap and good quality. I don't see the point of expensive RAM, when often the performance difference is neglible at best.

It may be a configuration problem if the RAM isn't setup properly and its trying to use Dual Channel. Which I think is supposed to be identicle RAM sticks, but I haven't really looked into it that much as I had no problems. Apart from the mouse wheel randomly not-working :grumpy:
 
I only have 128mb of ram and it's not upgradeable because it's Sony RD Ram which you can only get from Sony at OUTRAGEOUS prices. 🤬 :ouch: :irked: :indiff: :mad:

So don't feel bad about having 512mb of "cheap" ram, because it's still a HELL of alot better than 128mb of Sony ram.
 
the whole reason for those ultra high end ram modules is for overclocking purposes. The faster the ram is, the more of an FSB overclock it can take before you need to put a ram barrier into place :)
 
If it takes 30mins to boot your pc there must be an incompatibility problem. That is not down to poor performance.

How bad is cheap RAM?.......


Not that bad!!
 
emad
the whole reason for those ultra high end ram modules is for overclocking purposes. The faster the ram is, the more of an FSB overclock it can take before you need to put a ram barrier into place :)
Click to expand...

Never had any problems with my old cheap RAM when overclocking :) Although it didn't like being underclocked :lol:
 
You can get good RAM these days for pretty cheap, I've seen 1gb of Corsair going for about $80 in a local Fry's ad.

But even with generic RAM, performace these days are still acceptable.
 
If your motherboard supports Dual Channel ram and you wanted to take up less space for 1GB or 2GB. Buy either 2 1 Dimms of Dual Channel 1GB Ram for 2GB, or buy 1 Dimm of Dual Channel 1GB ram for just 1GB.
 

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