Member Avatar for JRosselet

I am currently attempting to upgrade my old computer in terms of RAM. It is running an Intel Brookdale i845E chipset with Single Channel DDR266 SDRAM (2 x 256MB at 133.3MHZ).

Even though my RAM is currently running at 133.3 MHz, is it possible to upgrade to PC3200 or PC4200? I was hoping to buy a relatively cheap stick (1024MB for somewhere around 100 CND).

If I cannot run the RAM at higher speeds (533MHz, for example), can my computer still accept the RAM (At a lower speed)? I am saying this, as I have found that 133.3MHz RAM is relatively unavailable, and expensive.

I would greatly appreciate any help!

Thank You
//JRosselet

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by logantrox

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A concise, practical follow-up to that builds on the helpful points from and . These notes focus on checks and steps that prevent buying the wrong stick and how to verify and troubleshoot after installation.

  • Confirm the board’s supported memory type and the maximum supported capacity per slot by checking the motherboard/spec sheet — some older boards have per‑slot limits or require specific module densities.
  • Identify the DIMM before buying: read the module label if possible, or use a tool such as CPU‑Z to read SPD (module type, voltage, timings, vendor). Look for modules that list standard voltages and JEDEC timings rather than modern overclock/XMP profiles.
  • Match voltage, timings and capacity when populating multiple slots; matched kits reduce headaches. Mixing manufacturers or mismatched densities can sometimes work but increases the chance of instability.
  • Prefer reputable brands or sellers with returns; used modules can be economical but test them thoroughly.

If the system won’t boot or is unstable after installation:

  1. Install one new stick by itself and boot to BIOS to confirm the size is recognized.
  2. Run Memtest86 (multiple passes) to check for errors.
  3. Reseat modules, try alternate slots, and clear CMOS if needed.
  4. Only consider changing BIOS memory timings or voltages within the module’s rated spec; update the BIOS only as a last resort and follow the board vendor’s instructions.

Final cautions: use basic ESD precautions when handling DIMMs, and be aware that very old motherboards may not accept some high‑density or “modern” sticks even if they physically fit. If uncertain, post the exact motherboard model and the markings from the RAM stick and someone can help identify a compatible part.

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Member Avatar for goldeagle2005

You can get a higher speed RAM stick of the same kind (DDR, DDR2) etc and run it in your system with absolutely no problems. However, the RAM will run at the highest possible speed supported by your board. So, if your board suppors 333MHz tops and you install a 400MHz stick, it'll run at 333MHz.

Member Avatar for JRosselet

You can get a higher speed RAM stick of the same kind (DDR, DDR2) etc and run it in your system with absolutely no problems

Does this mean that if I currently only have DDR, my motherboard will not support DDR2?

OR

Does this mean that both sticks must be of the same type?

Member Avatar for goldeagle2005

Generally, a board supports only one type of RAM -- DDR or DDr2. In such case, you have to use the type the board supports. The other type will not fit. However, some boards accept both DDR and DDR2. However, you can use only one type of RAM at a timee. Thats to say, you cant add one stick DDR RAM and another DDR2 stick with it. It should either be that all sticks are either DDR ror DDR2

Member Avatar for NY2LA

Wow you guys sure know this stuff! Can someone help me with the same question. I have a AMD Athlon XP-1700 1.46 Ghz currently with 256MB. It has 2 slots. I would like to get it up to 1 GB. 512 would even be nice. the Bios is ASUS-a7n266-VM ACPI-Bios (if that helps). I looked at the current RAM installed and it says DDR266 256MB, but looking at frys.com I dont see anything like that.

Please help.

Member Avatar for caperjack

Wow you guys sure know this stuff! Can someone help me with the same question. I have a AMD Athlon XP-1700 1.46 Ghz currently with 256MB. It has 2 slots. I would like to get it up to 1 GB. 512 would even be nice. the Bios is ASUS-a7n266-VM ACPI-Bios (if that helps). I looked at the current RAM installed and it says DDR266 256MB, but looking at frys.com I dont see anything like that.

Please help.

ddr266 is also called PC2100 ,check frys here .
http://shop4.outpost.com/%7BnOGK9nO6VyIY6HLJTN6P+w**.node1%7D/search?search_type=regular&sqxts=1&query_string=pc2100&cat=&submit.x=8&submit.y=11

info on this site shows that the boards max is 1 gig ram ,so you have 2 slots ,that means 2x512 , so don't buy a 1 gig stick ,you need to buy 2 512 sticks to get to 1 gig ,

Member Avatar for NY2LA

CaperJack - Thank you, thank all of you. Im up and running at warp speed! (Compared to where it was). Thank all of you again~!

Member Avatar for caperjack

Your welcome,now slow down.lol

Member Avatar for computerguy321

So that means that there are no compatibility problems with the MHS?

Member Avatar for caperjack

So that means that there are no compatibility problems with the MHS?

MHS?
my info only pertains to the last few post ,not the earlier post in this thread .

Member Avatar for caperjack

hello, i own a compaq presario SR1900NX, which supports DDR ram, i am interested in upgrading the memory, i was wondering if this particular type works, any idea?

Kingston 2GB KIT 400MHZ DDR PC3200 ( KVR400X64C3AK2/2G )

here is a link to amazon http://www.amazon.com/Kingston-400MHZ-PC3200-KVR400X64C3AK2-2G/dp/B0000V1AE4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1206667676&sr=1-2

from the info on this site it looks like its the right ram for the computer ,

Member Avatar for logantrox

thank you guys, i didn't want to purchase it and figure out it isn't compatible.

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