[Woodchuck42]

I have a Gateway computer with 512 of RAM in two 256 cards, one in channel A and one in channel B. We recieved a new 512 card (DIMM card) from Gateway so that we could upgrade to 1 gig. When we install the new 512, the computer wants to reconfig during the startup proccess. It gives us an error that we are not at optimal performance and that channel A and B do not match.

We called Gateway techs and were givin 2 different answers as to what we should do. The only thing that was the same was that we should have been sent two of the 512 cards and then not use the two 256 cards that we have. In other words they want to sell us another card.

What am I missing?

Model 510X with 512 RAM and 120 Hard drive.

Edited by Woodchuck42, 18 December 2006 - 07:46 PM.

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Your Gateway PC uses what's called "Dual Channel Memory Architecture" which performs much faster than standard single-channel systems. Dual channel systems can transfer data across the memory bus in both directions at the same time. Single channel systems can't do that. However, to get this performance, each pair of memory slots must contain the same amount of RAM.

So your RAM supplier is correct in advising you to buy another 512MB module. Leave the existing two 256MB modules in place, fit the two new 512MB modules in the two remaining empty slots. Should give you a very healthy boost in speed which you won't regret.

Edited by pip22, 19 December 2006 - 09:50 AM.

[pip22]

Your Gateway PC uses what's called "Dual Channel Memory Architecture" which performs much faster than standard single-channel systems. Dual channel systems can transfer data across the memory bus in both directions at the same time. Single channel systems can't do that. However, to get this performance, each pair of memory slots must contain the same amount of RAM.

So your RAM supplier is correct in advising you to buy another 512MB module. Leave the existing two 256MB modules in place, fit the two new 512MB modules in the two remaining empty slots. Should give you a very healthy boost in speed which you won't regret.

Edited by pip22, 19 December 2006 - 09:50 AM.

[Woodchuck42]

Thank you for your help.