3 gig ram single channel vs 2 or 4 gig dbl channel ??

Not being too informed regarding single ch vs dbl ch, I do understand
that dbl ch is "better/faster"; BUT also that winxp doesn't use
all 4 gigs as it is a 32-bit OS & about 1 gig isn't recognized.

I've tried google to check whether putting 3 gig in a current MB
for single ch use would be better than 2 gig as dbl ch or even
4 gig ram for less than a 4 gig ram dbl ch usage. Just an idea
for what to get next month as had thought 2 gig "would be sufficient".

Havn't found anything regarding the odd number 3 gig ram usage for
32-bit windows & definitely NOT interested in vista.

Would like some info on this if possible; even if it is "in theory".

thank you.

"student" <guest@csus_.edu> wrote in message
news:slrnf7jnid.398.guest@crane.li-po.edu...
> Not being too informed regarding single ch vs dbl ch, I do understand
> that dbl ch is "better/faster"; BUT also that winxp doesn't use
> all 4 gigs as it is a 32-bit OS & about 1 gig isn't recognized.
>
> I've tried google to check whether putting 3 gig in a current MB
> for single ch use would be better than 2 gig as dbl ch or even
> 4 gig ram for less than a 4 gig ram dbl ch usage. Just an idea
> for what to get next month as had thought 2 gig "would be sufficient".
>
> Havn't found anything regarding the odd number 3 gig ram usage for
> 32-bit windows & definitely NOT interested in vista.
>
> Would like some info on this if possible; even if it is "in theory".
>
> thank you.

2gigs is all you need with XP. I do a lot of A/V work, CAD and photo work
and 2gigs is all that my particular programs will use anyway. If you run in
dual channel you will see a slight increase but nothing earth shaking. You
do need two 1gig sticks with the same specs for it to work. Don't fall into
that trap of "matched" memory for dual channel. I usually just make sure I
get two sticks of the same part# and have never had any problems. Vista will
use a lot of memory, but having beta tested it for over a year and using the
retail Vista 32 Ultimate I have shelved it for awhile and am back to XP Pro.
Overall, it worked ok, but there are just too many little quirks for me to
use it daily at this time. Maybe after the first SP I will give it another
go.

Ed

student <guest@csus_.edu> wrote:

> I do understand that dbl ch is "better/faster";

It is, especially if you use more modules and end up with your memory
running at a slower clock speed.

I agree with the first reply. Use two of the same part number 1 GB
memory modules, placed in the correct dual channel slots according to
your mainboard manual.