Upgrading RAM

[kaisermoran]

I would like to improve the performance of my PC as I am using some pretty intensive 3D graphics programs for university. I assume the best way to do this is upgrade my RAM. I currently have 512MB (I think DDR SDRAM). I have 3 spare RAM slots.
I would like to know:

a)Is it important to get the same brand?
b)Should I get the same size?
c)Does it matter if they are different speeds?
d)Corsair?, Kingston?, any recommendations?

Alternatively would I be better off whipping out the old one and replacing it with a Corsair Value Select memory - 1 GB - DIMM 184-PIN - DDR 400 MHz ( PC3200 ) and giving my girlfriend my old RAM?

AMD athlon XP 2600 1.99Ghz
ATI 9800 Pro 128MB
80GB Hitachi 7200RPM
Samsung DVD+-RW
19" HP LCD

Thankyou v.much to anyone who replies!

Deano.

 

[madking153]

for better performance(gaming) but the same size -512mb
coz u using DDR , so better running in pairs ..eg: 2x512mb


check what model and frequency of ur ram , like is it pc32oo, or pc 2700 etc

if u planning to buy Corsair value ram - the buy 2x 512mb pc3200

capish?

 

[Lonewolf5460]

A) it would be better but not needed
B) yah i would
C)yes the new faster ram will default to the older ram speeds
D)corsiar or kingston if you are not overclocking

 

[SHAWN]

^ well said

 

[Trotter]

If you are using intensive 3D utilities, I'd say go for 2gig. Either do it with 4x512 or 2x1GB, your choice.

look up the specs for your mobo and see what the highest RAM it can use is, then buy that. ANything higher will be restricted to the mobos max RAM rating, anything lower will be slowingyour programs down.

ATI 9800 Pro 128MB

Not bad, but there is better out there. A better graphics card can help your 3D performance as well.

 

[kaisermoran]

Thanks for the advice everyone! Off to buy my new memory!