Office Computer Upgrade

[yowen]

This thing is starting to drive me nuts! I use it at work and I figure I can get them to let me spend a little money on it. It also helps that I do all purchasing here

Dell Optiplex GX620
P4 2.8Ghz HT
1Gb Ram
WD800JD-75msa1 (80gb harddrive)
Radeon X600

Now the clear path to increased happiness to me looks like 3 - 4 GB of ram.

I do not need a lot of harddrive space so I imagine the 80gb drive is fine. I figure more ram will keep shit out of the harddrive and make my computer much faster.

Now... Seeing as how I am stuck with 32bit windows XP, could I just throw 3 sticks of 1GB in? What would be the best path toward compatibility and cost effectiveness here?

3 x 1GB
2 x 2GB
1 x 1GB + 1 x 2GB
or even 2 x 512MB (already in the computer) + 2 x 1GB

Whats your guys's opinion? Are (dell) motherboards picky about any of the above?

I use Outlook, Google Chrome (6+ tabs), notepad, word, excel, autocad (very lightly) and Mas90 (like SAP).

 

[tiraides]

A 2x2GB set is the best way to go, but DDR RAM is considerably expensive nowadays. Despite the 32-bit 4GB memory cap, a balanced dual-channel setup will keep things running smooth.

If you can't find it new, you may want to consider just saving up another $300 or $400 for a more modern system (and a 64-bit operating system).

 

[plugwash]

umm according to crucial the GX620 takes DDR2 not DDR

Personally I'd drop in a 2x1GB kit along with the existing ram. That would give you a 3GB setup with balanced dual channel.

 

[yowen]

umm according to crucial the GX620 takes DDR2 not DDR

Personally I'd drop in a 2x1GB kit along with the existing ram. That would give you a 3GB setup with balanced dual channel.

Yeah its DDR2 (should have mentioned that)

2x1 and 2x512 will be ok?

tiraides: I can't go 64bit at work.

 

[Dangman]

2x1 and 2x512 will be ok?

Yes