Memory configuration for best performance

Z

Zimbop

Registered
I have an iMac 1.8GHz 20 inch with 256MB Ram.

Crucial states that although I have 2 banks of 1 and can install modules one at a time, best performance comes from installing matched pairs.

I can't afford 2 x 1GB, but I can afford either 1 x 1GB or 2 x 512MB.

So which configuration is best.

1 x 256MB + 1 x 1GB = 1.25GB

or

2 x 512 MB = 1GB

Obviously, one option has the advantage of more memory, the other has the advantage of being a matched pair. I've no idea how to quantify one against the other! With the 2nd setup I end up with a spare 256MB stick which seems a bit of a waste, I don't know, that's probably what ebay is for!

Anyone have a view on this?
 
I would choose more memory over interlaced memory (what you get by installing in pairs, sort of -- I think they call it "dual-channel" these days).

I would go for the 1x1GB, then upgrade to another 1GB stick when you've got the funds. If you go with 2x512, then to get to 2GB of RAM, you'd have to replace both sticks instead of just replacing the 256MB stick with a 1GB stick.
 
I was in the same position as you, 1G interlaced versus 1.25 unmatched. I went the 1.25 route because it was more total RAM and exactly as indicated, any future upgrade is simpler (swap out the 256 for another gig).
 
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