RAM configuration

[kmo19]

I just ordered the base model 8-core Pro with 2GB RAM. I'm going to upgrade the RAM myself. Do I need to stay in powers of 2? (2,4,8,16 GB, etc.)

For example, if I ordered a pair of 4GB modules, that would give me 10GB total in 3 slots, assuming it comes with a single 2GB module. Is that not advisable? Do you need to keep an even number of slots filled? 10GB in 3 slots would still be faster than 8GB in two slots right?

Or does it come installed with 2 1GB modules, and thus ordering a another pair would keep an even number of slots filled?

 

[astroboi]

RAM in the Mac Pro must be in matched pairs. The 2gb you get from Apple will be 2x1gb chips. Any more you add must also be in pairs. Adding two 4gb chips will be fine. There's info in the manual about which slots you should place the new RAM in.

 

[~Shard~]

You might find this guide useful.

 

[kmo19]

I guess I'm going to get 6 x 2GB more. That will give me a total of 14GB, and from the tests I found they all said you need to have the 8 slots full to maximize performance. Kinda stinks that you can't just fill them up as you need them.