2x256megs or 1x512megs of RAM?

[h0tai]

i got a question, why does everyone have 2 sticks of 256 megs of ram as opposed to just one stick of 512 megs of ram?
does it lead to better performance or what? i am planning on getting PC2700 ram and i want 512 megs.. what should i dO?

 

[zer0burn]

1*512 ppl usually have 2*256 cause they buy 256 then when they have more money buy another stick

 

[h0tai]

does having 2x256 megs of PC2700 ram have any benifit over 1 stick of 512 PC2700??...

 

[DaveSimmons]

no, just means you've run out of DIMM slots

People do buy 2 x 256 to save money if they have 3 slots or don't expect to add more memory to that system any time soon.

 

[mechBgon]

A single 512Mb DIMM also cuts the needed electrical power by 50% compared to two 256Mb modules. According to Micron's module documentation, a typical module of either size can put out ~16W max, which is not enormous, but that is 16 more watts that your fans would have to remove from your case.

 

[tenoc]

2x256 allows you to continue operating if you stick goes bad and has to be RMA'd.

1x512, under the same scenario, means you are SOL.

 

[Vette73]

I have also found that a lot of times 2X256 cost less than one 512mg slab.

2 256mg Reg. ECC slabs cost $110 shipped at crucial, 1 512mg slab cost I THINK around $150. Just ordered my 2 slabs today.