| How can I tell what speed OCZ Performance SDRAM is rated? |
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| We rate our entire RAM with a megahertz and timing rating. As follows: Megahertz Rating (CAS - RAS to CAS Delay - RAS Precharge - TRAS). |
What brand chips are used for OCZ RAM Modules? |
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| OCZ Performance series RAM uses name brand DRAM chips by companies such as Samsung, Winbond and Hynix. These top level wafer manufacturers are able to provide us with the highest quality DRAM chips which we then hand test to qualify for use in our modules. |
Can I mix types/densities of RAM modules? |
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| You can mix densities/ types of RAM on the same system. However for maximum performance we do recommend using the same type/density modules. |
What is CAS? |
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Short for Column Access Strobe, CAS is a signal sent by the processor to a DRAM circuit to prompt a column address. DRAM stores data in a series of columns and rows; each bit of data is filed in both a column and a row. Data is retrieved from the DRAM by the processor using CAS and RAS (Row Access Strobe) signals, much like pinpointing a location on a map using coordinates. |
Can I use faster memory in a slower system? |
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| Yes, a faster memory module should work fine in a system with a lower memory speed rating. For example, PC3200 memory should work fine in a system that takes PC2100 or PC2700. |
Can I use DDR memory in a PC using PC133/PC100/PC66 memory? |
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| No, DDR memory has a different specification and will not work in a PC using PC133, PC100, or PC66 memory. |
What is the difference between ECC and non-parity memory? |
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| ECC (Error Correction Code) memory will detect and correct any memory errors while the system is running. It is mainly used in server environments where operation is critical. Non-parity memory does not contain any error correcting circuitry. In reality, memory errors are rare so going with non-parity is the best choice for home or office use if your motherboard takes both ECC and non-ECC memory. |
What are the differences among registered, buffered, and unbuffered memory? |
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| Registered memory is designed for motherboards that accept a large number of module slots and larger capacity modules. This type of memory is mainly used in servers that require a large amount of memory. Buffered memory is basically the same as registered memory, but the term is used for the older EDO and FPM memory types. Unbuffered memory does not contain the chip that allows for the extra features in registered and buffered memory. Unbuffered memory is cheaper and the popular choice in home computers. |
Can I use registered memory with unbuffered memory? |
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| No, registered memory will not work with unbuffered memory. |
What is dual channel DDR? |
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| Dual channel DDR involves using 2 DDR memory modules to double the memory bandwidth. The DDR memory modules themselves are not any different. The only requirement is that the memory controller on the motherboard supports this dual channel interface. |
My system does not boot up with the new memory I just bought. What do I do? |
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| First, you need to check the motherboard user’s manual and see if you have bought the correct memory type. For example, Intel 875/865 chipset based motherboard does not take ECC registered DDR RAM. If the memory type is correct, please look up OCZ motherboard qualification guide for compatibility. If the memory is compatible with your motherboard, please try to reset CMOS and let motherboard read memory settings from SPD. If the system still fails to boot, please contact OCZ technical support for any help. |
How do I know what memory I should use for my motherboard? |
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| Look at the OCZ motherboard qualification guide to find compatible memory for your motherboard first. If your motherboard is not in the list, please contact OCZ technical support for assistance. |
I am getting messages stating "Not enough memory to run application" and "Not enough system resources to run application". Do I need to add more memory? |
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System resource and memory are two different aspects. Memory is referring to physical memory you install in your system. System resources are areas of memory that are used by applications. When Windows starts up, some applications are loaded automatically. Each application consumes system resources. System resources that were allocated can be released when an application is closed. If the free resource level falls below a certain point (usually 70%), you will see error messages like "Out of memory", "Not enough memory to run application" or "Not enough system resources to run application". |
My system is not stable while running some applications. How do I solve this problem? |
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| First, make sure you have set BIOS settings correctly according to memory specifications. You can try to test your system with other memory and see if the problem goes away. If you have more than one memory module installed, please test them one at a time. If one of the modules is causing problems, please contact memory manufacturer to get memory replaced. If the problem persists regardless of which module you use, try to swap other components to isolate the problem or contact OCZ technical support to troubleshoot your problems. |