Extra Memory - query

donny-gal

I am thinking of adding extra memory to, my Del Inspiron 1501 laptop, so I downloaded the crucial check and it came up with that I have 1gb of DDR PC2-5200, and my system has 2 memory slots each memory slot can hold DDR2 PC2-4200,DDR2 PC2-5300 with a maximum of 1GB per slot.

It gave me two options both at £10.99+vat = the first with 4 stars is DDR2 PC2-4200 • CL=4 • Unbuffered • NON-ECC • DDR2-533 • 1.8V • 128Meg x 64, the second the same but no stars and PC2-5300

Now my limited knowledge may be dangerous at times, and I may have completely got he wrong end of the stick, but is the 4200 not slower (though probably neglibly) than then 5300, an the 5300 very slightly faster than the 5200 though it will work at the slowest memory rate I believe, why would they recommend the lower speed

Which is best?
DG

donny-gal

Anyone?
DG

robredz

The 5300 should be OK, as your existing stick is 5200, putting a stick of 4200 in would drop the speed to that of the 4200 thus slowing the system slightly as memory usually runs at the speed of the slowest stick. The increase in memory *may* help negate the difference. the I am sure there are others here who can help further.

CHR15

You are correct the 4200 is slower and putting a faster stick in will only run at the slower speed.

You wouldn't notice the difference though in real terms.

You could put in a matched pair but we are talking about a laptop, not a games/graphics/ripping machine so just go for the cheaper option.