So the MP comes with 2GB (2x1GB). If I buy 8GB ( 4x2GB ) is it best to leave out the 2GB it comes with or include it for a total of 10GB. I ask because I read on the Apple website that the memory is most effectively utilized when operating with 4 or 8 identical modules. Cheers.
Got a tip for us?
Let us know
Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.
Newb memory question.
- Thread starter alanlindsay
- Start date
- Sort by reaction score
Theres no harm in leaving your original 2GB.
If you get 4 x 2GB (here are your 4 identical modules) thats 8GB +2GB Original.
If you're looking to upgrade your RAM I recommened www.MemoryAmerica.com. - last time I checked their 8GB kits were running at $346.
If you get 4 x 2GB (here are your 4 identical modules) thats 8GB +2GB Original.
If you're looking to upgrade your RAM I recommened www.MemoryAmerica.com. - last time I checked their 8GB kits were running at $346.
We have Guide on Understanding Intel Mac RAM under the Guides tab, Hardware.
The answer to the question depends on how you are using the RAM.
RAM in the 3 and 4 sockets on each riser is slower than RAM in the 1 and 2 sockets (higher latency, because the request goes to the 1 or 2 socket first, and is forwarded by the chip on that FB-DIMM to the 3 r 4 socket)
So if you gain more application performance by having the extra 2 GB total RAM, than you lose through additional latency, then you would have faster performance.
In the USA, check out Data Memory Systems - $356 for 8 GB, excellent reputation and service.
I don't know MemoryAmerica -- their domain has been in existence for 1 year. The WHOIS domain information is stealthed, which I never like.
The answer to the question depends on how you are using the RAM.
RAM in the 3 and 4 sockets on each riser is slower than RAM in the 1 and 2 sockets (higher latency, because the request goes to the 1 or 2 socket first, and is forwarded by the chip on that FB-DIMM to the 3 r 4 socket)
So if you gain more application performance by having the extra 2 GB total RAM, than you lose through additional latency, then you would have faster performance.
In the USA, check out Data Memory Systems - $356 for 8 GB, excellent reputation and service.
I don't know MemoryAmerica -- their domain has been in existence for 1 year. The WHOIS domain information is stealthed, which I never like.