Velocidad de bus de PC-100 de Memoria de Computadora DIMM 128 MB capacidad por módulo (RAM)

How to Fit Memory to Your System

Adding memory to your computer involves more than just double-checking compatibility; theres also the question of finding the right balance of capacity and performance. Not all modules will work in every system and its important to know that before you install your RAM.

What is a DIMM?

The term DIMM refers to a Dual In-Line Memory Module and refers to the package containing the various memory chips. All types of desktop SDRAM use the same DIMMs whether the module itself is PC66, PC100, or PC133. They are all physically interchangeable and backwards compatible with the previous generations. PC133 just drops down to PC100 timings when in a PC100 motherboard. While you can try running PC66 at higher speeds not all modules can handle the jump to 100 MHz, let alone 133 MHz. Note that laptops use SODIMM memory, which is not interchangeable with desktop RAM as can be seen below:

  • DIMM: PC100 comes in a standard 168-pin SDRAM DIMM form factor with two voltage notches and requires 3.3 Volts. The package measures 133.35 millimeters by 30.48 millimeters. It supports both registered and unbuffered memory as well as ECC.
  • SODIMM: Laptop memory comes in a smaller 67.6-millimeter package thats 30 millimeters high, and only has 144 pins. It does not support ECC but does support the same 3.3 Volt signaling protocol.

What About SDRAM Memory Capacity?

When youre looking for memory there are a few things you want to consider. One is speed; you need to make sure the RAM matches the memory bus, or you can have stability issues. Another is capacity; while Windows XP will officially run on 64 MB of RAM you generally need more than that in order to actually get any use out of the system. There are two factors you need to pay attention to when looking at DRAM capacity:

  • Module Size: There are several different ways to get 128 MB of memory capacity, ranging from four 32 MB modules to a single 128 MB stick. Always check the motherboard to determine the maximum module size per slot as this may have a significant effect on the amount you can install.
  • Total Capacity: While total capacity relates to module size, there are other factors you have to deal with when loading up your system. A motherboard may have four slots and support 512 MB, but only as two 256 MB SDRAM modules, but not as four 128 MB modules.

Using SDRAM

PC100 SDRAM upgrades are simple. You just pull back the levers, insert the RAM stick, and snap it into place. The whole process takes only a few seconds and the performance increase is significant.

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