RAM upgrades - Help decipher the numbers please...

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Jaxson

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#171728 29-Apr-2015 11:06

Hi all,

I've got an HP desktop that can take 4x 4GB RAM modules, and it's presently filled with 4x 2Gb sticks.

I'm looking to dump what I currently have and upgrade to 4x 4GB of RAM

It's an older model computer, so nowadays the RAM offerings have higher numbers, so I'd like to know if I can insert higher rated sticks, and still operate these at the lower speed the computer can work with?

I'm looking to purchase from Amazon or equivalent as they seem much cheaper than what's being offered locally, even with shipping factored in.
I'd actually be ok with 2nd hand also to be honest, as long as it works!

Any comments or advice or personal stories in this area are welcome

Cheers,
Jackson.

Details specifically are from here:

Memory upgrade information:

Four DDR3 DIMM (240-pin) sockets
Supports 1 GB, 2 GB, and 4 GB DDR3 DIMMs per socket
Supports Dual channel memory architecture
Supported speeds
- PC3-10600 @ 1333 MHz*
- PC3-8500 @ 1066 MHz
  
  *DDR3-1333 modules run at 1066 MHz if three or more modules are installed.
Non-ECC memory only, unbuffered
Supports up to 16 GB on 64-bit PCs (DIMMs run at DDR3-1066)
Supports up to 4 GB* on 32-bit PCs

* Actual available memory may be less.

1101

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#1293431 29-Apr-2015 11:34

Some HP PC's can be VERY fussy as to what RAM will actually work. I have various HP PC's here that wont work with some generic RAM thats OK in generic PC's
What ever you buy, make sure you can return it if it doesnt work. (I dont think higher speed than HP's spec's will matter though)

try Kingstons website, you can search for your PC model number & they will give Kingston part numbers of RAM that will work in it.

toyonut

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#1293434 29-Apr-2015 11:37

Be careful with HP desktops and laptops especially they are business kit. They can be very picky with RAM. Stick with Kingston, Samsung or something like the recommended stuff from the Crucial site. I have had issues with desktops and a couple of laptops just not booting when replacing DDR3 RAM with generic stuff.
I would also only get the fastest recommended speed (1333mhz in this case.) as it may also prevent POST using the wrong speed RAM.

Try Vultr using this link and get us both some credit:

http://www.vultr.com/?ref=7033587-3B

Lias

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#1293478 29-Apr-2015 12:37

http://pricespy.co.nz/product.php?p=1298905
Buy 4 of those, never had an HP refuse to take Kingston RAM.

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gzt

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#1293494 29-Apr-2015 12:48

Also check the genuine direct price not /always/ bad..

Jaxson

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#1293497 29-Apr-2015 12:49

So I'm picking up Kingston is a good bet?!

Ability to return sounds good, and something I won't get (in a financially viable state) from a US import.

Is the old stuff worth anything?

I'm not after massive speed, just more space as a I'm regularly running out of RAM during video editing projects now.

sidefx

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#1293507 29-Apr-2015 13:01

Just a thought, but perhaps 2x8GB be a better upgrade as it leaves you with the option to add another 16GB at a later date if needed?

EDIT: Ah, ignore this I didn't read your OP carefully enough!

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Jaxson

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#1293509 29-Apr-2015 13:02

gzt: Also check the genuine direct price not /always/ bad..

Running the model number through the Kingston page, it's come back with this item, which is now discontinued:
KTH9600B/4G

Which at least gives an idea of the intended specs:

DDR3, 1333MHz, Non-ECC, CL9, 1.5V, Unbuffered, DIMM, 240-pin

Jaxson

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#1293544 29-Apr-2015 13:22

sidefx: Just a thought, but perhaps 2x8GB be a better upgrade as it leaves you with the option to add another 16GB at a later date if needed?

EDIT: Ah, ignore this I didn't read your OP carefully enough!

Ha no worries, it's a reminded at how fast time/technology is moving, and how old my relatively new computer actually is!