The RDRAM nightmare

[DrugCzarOfPortu]

Well, it's a nightmare for me anyway.

So I wanted to upgrade my computer. I ordered everything, and the first thing to arrive was RAM.

My original RDRAM was two sticks of 128 MB RDRAM (40ns) in rimms 1 and 2. Rimms 3 and 4 had continuity modules. As far as i can tell, the RAM is non ECC, unbuffered, PC800. I have a 533 MHz FSB.

I ordered two sticks of 256MB (made by Samsung, because that is who teh original RAM was made by). This is the specific RAM i got : http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=20-151-102&depa=1

I opened my case, popped out the continuity modules and put in my brand new RDRAM. I plugged it back in, fired it up and all I got were ten distinct beeps. So I thought to go to Dell's support forum. I am told there i need to put the larger RAM sticks in rimms 1 and 2. SO i popped out the older 128s, put them in RIMMS 3 and 4, and stuck teh new 256 sticks in rimms 1 and 2. Still, all I got were the beeps. So, lastly, I put the continuity modules back in RIMMS 3 and 4 and put my new sticks of RAM in 1 and 2. Still, all I got were the beeps, without a system boot up.

So, oh great members of the techspot forums, did I get faulty RAM? Or is it something more sinister. I was told on the Dell forums that this RAM should work, so I don't know what to do.

 

[RealBlackStuff]

Make sure that the new RDRAM has the required (by Dell) CL-type.
They come in CL=2, 2.5 or 3. Dell probably requires CL=2.
Any different type won't work (that is my experience at least when upgrading a customer's Dell memory of the SDRAM or DDRAM type).

 

[DrugCzarOfPortu]

how do i figure that out? Because as far as I can tell, this RAM should work. Dell tech support has been no help.

Their first reply told me to update the BIOS, which i did, and it didn't work. The next tech support e-mail told me this RAM wasn't compatible, but they somehow came to believe i had a Dimension 4300 instead of an 8200. So now I am completely stuck.

 

[RealBlackStuff]

Crucial says: Do I have to buy the same size upgrade as the memory module currently installed in my computer or can I mix different sizes?

In newer systems using SDRAM or DDR SDRAM memory, you can use modules of different densities with no problem. For example, if your computer came with a 128MB memory module, you can add a 256MB module for a total of 384MB of RAM. However, if you have a "dual-channel" system and want to take advantage of that technology, you will need to ensure that the modules in each memory slot are the same density.