PC-3200 ram backwards compatible?

[stangcrazy]

Ok, my computer runs PC-2100 DDR memory. I don't have the money for a new motherboard and chipset right now, but I'd like more memory. I was wondering if ya'll think it is wise to buy PC-3200 DDR memory and put it on this mobo?

If you have any questions I can post up.

[Grant]

Yes, it should work. My brother-in-law is using pc3200 on a pc2100 system and it works fine.

[dmh165638]

It will run fine, and could be made to run faster with that ram. You could overclock the memory or tighten the timings if you run at PC2100. I am running PC4000 in my board that is setup for PC3200. I am actually running it at PC4400.

[stangcrazy]

So what speed of DDR memory does it stop being compatible? I figure when i do build my new computer I will be using something faster than DDR PC3200 and frys has a sale on DDR 4000. Does it matter the speed or just that it has to be DDR (not DDR2) and 184 pin?


Thanks guys, I just don't feel like looking through a bunch of web articles to find this little bit of info that some of you guys know.

[dmh165638]

PC4000 will work fine, and will give you good memory for a later upgrade. I am running PC4000 with my Athlon 64, which stock uses PC3200. If you use the PC4000 in your rig all you will be doing is running the memory slower than it is intended for. Since you will be running it slower you can tighten up the timings and get better performance out of it. Say for instance the memory is rated at CL3 3-4-4-8 but you are only running at 266Mhz FSB you could probably run timings of CL2.5 3-3-3-7 just as an example. If you decide to overclock what you have now the memory will not hold you back.