Hey there, I just ordered my components a few days ago and I imagine that 512MB of generic ram won't cut it for long. I'll be using a GIGABYTE K8NS (939) mobo. The problem is, aside from not currently having the cash, I'm not entirely sure what speeds of memory my mobo will accept. I'm assuming it will say something like "support for dual-channel memory at PC3200" or something like that. Could I use PC3500 ram for example? Would it really make a difference over 3200? Does duel-channel ram really help all that much? I'm assuming my mobo won't support say, dual-channel PC3500 but I just want what will serve me best. Oh, sorry one more thing, how much difference do low latencies make anyway? Is it really worth the extra 20+ bucks for say, 2-3-3-5 (or lower) compared to 2.5-3-3-7. I'm into the whole gaming scene and plan to play Doom3 and all that but would I honestly notice any difference? Sorry this is long, and thanks for your time guys (and gals).
yeah low latencies are worth it. If your motherboard won't support pc-3500, pc-3500 won't work. Dual Channel isn't a big of an increase but it's worth it if just by switching a couple slots.
For AMD-based systems, latency is the key, as it has more of an impact. Dual-channel is also good, adding an extra 5-10% increase in performance over single-channel. If you're not overclocking, you don't need anything above PC3200. Again, the thing that's more critical than higher-speed RAM is latency, so yes, for an extra $20 or so, the price is definitely worth it.
Thanks, I really appreciate your feedback. I'll look into low latency, dual-channel, PC3200 once I get the money.
