I have an ASUS with the same RAM configuration. My BIOS had to be set for 
"dual memory" which requires matched sticks. If not set, unmatched memory 
could be used. I look upon matched memory as a performance boast rather than 
unmatched memory as a performance hit.

Be careful that the new stick will work with the old stick. Check the stores 
return policy before purchasing. From reviews I've read, some brands of RAM 
may not work with other brands. For example, PNY does not seem to like 
playing with other brands.

I hope this information helps with your Dell. Remember Dell's use 
proprietary memory. You should buy from a supplier, such as Crucial (or 
Dell), that guarantees compatibility with Dell. Also, since  both sticks are 
specifically made to run in your Dell, they should not have a conflict 
between themselves. If your computer manual does not include information 
concerning the uses of banks 1 & 2, you can try it both ways.

Tom Mayer

----- Original Message ----- 
Subject: [PCBUILD] unmatched DDR2 memory


Hi,

I have a Dell GX280 that came with a _single_ 512M DDR2 stick of
memory. I want to upgrade (to run VMplayer) and, of course, have a
question.

GX280 towers have 4 memory slots, 2 banks of 2. DDR2 memory should be
purchased in matched pairs, but I already have this singleton. What
happens if I get another (single) 512 (or any other size) stick and put
it in slot 2 (not paired with the memory in slot 1)?  Getting a 1 Gig
pair (2x512) is out of reach, and anyway I hate to "waste" the existing
512. I gather that, at least, there will be a performance hit, but I
assume it's not significant (more than 10%). Right or not?

Thanks,

Lou Smogor 

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