DDR3 Memory: Dual Channel vs Triple Channel

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iznobe -  
-ZORG- Posted messages 413 Status Member -
Hello,

I have a question that may seem a bit strange, but it's about "scalability"....

So here's the thing: I want to change my DDR2 memory for DDR3; my motherboard (Asus P5QC) supports both types, so that's not an issue.

It only supports DDR3 in dual channel, so my question was whether I can install only two triple channel DDR3 memory modules on my motherboard.

Physically, I believe there won't be any issues, but will it work?

Otherwise, is it possible to buy just one additional stick of the same type and brand later on, and will it run in triple channel or not? Basically, are dual channel and triple channel sticks identical or not?

I hope my question is clear; if not, feel free to ask me further questions.
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7 answers

  1. -ZORG- Posted messages 413 Status Member 17
     
    Well, I think we misunderstood each other,

    Imagine you put 6GB of DDR3 on a motherboard,

    a single channel = 1 stick of 6GB
    dual channel = 2 sticks of 3GB
    tri channel = 3 sticks of 2GB

    YOU can only do single channel, that is, 1 stick, or dual channel, 2 sticks in DDR3

    P.S. tri channel is only supported by DDR3, so the only option you have is to change to a motherboard that has at least 3 DDR3 slots

    or invest in 4 DDR2 sticks with a maximum total capacity of 16GB in PC 9600 max.

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    1. epango Posted messages 37195 Registration date   Status Member Last intervention   4 270
       
      It's simple: not all motherboards support triple-channel. Only motherboards for core i7, socket 1366, driven by an Intel X58 chipset, support triple-channel. In your case, you'll have to settle for dual channel.

      --
      If you don't know, you ask, and you feel ashamed once.
      If you don't ask, you'll be ashamed your whole life. Chinese proverb.
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  2. -ZORG- Posted messages 413 Status Member 17
     
    Sorry, by the time I wrote and validated, I was in discussions and so I'm responding to your previous message (n°2)

    Yes, you can buy 2 DDR3 sticks for your setup, and you just need to buy the same stick when you get a new motherboard compatible with the frequencies of those you’ve already bought and have at least 3 DDR3 slots, and then you'll be in tri-channel ;) for an Intel i7 or one that supports tri-channel because I don't think AMD manages that

    ------------------------------------------------------------­------------------------------
    We can never say it enough....
    When it's "Resolved," we activate the status as "Resolved" ;)
    For a "GUEST," it's here https://www.commentcamarche.net/infos/25917-marquer-un-fil-de-discussion-comme-etant-resolu/
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  3. -ZORG- Posted messages 413 Status Member 17
     
    Hi,

    I don't see what the problem is?
    If you want to buy 3 sticks and only be able to use 2, that's up to you.

    All you have to do is install no more than 8GB (2x4GB max) and not exceeding 1333MHz

    PS: you only have 2 DDR3 slots and no more. ;)

    ------------------------------------------------------------­------------------------------
    We can never say it enough....
    When it's marked "Resolved," we change the status to "Resolved" ;)
    For a "GUEST," it's here https://www.commentcamarche.net/infos/25917-marquer-un-fil-de-discussion-comme-etant-resolu/
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  4. iznobe Posted messages 5 Status Member
     
    apparently I can't edit my first message, sorry.

    I just came across an article that apparently answers my question: http://ww1.jmax-hardware.com

    but if someone else could confirm for me before I buy something unnecessary.

    thank you in advance.
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  5. iznobe Posted messages 5 Status Member
     
    The goal is to have the third stick when I change my setup and not to have to buy anything, but given the speed at which things and prices are evolving, I think I will rather go for a dual channel and then buy a third stick when the time comes.

    Thanks anyway, if you could clarify whether there is a difference between dual channel and triple channel architecture sticks.

    I know the specifications of my motherboard, the real problem I'm facing is whether adding an identical stick on a motherboard that supports triple channel will work, so I don't end up wasting the one I might buy very soon, which leads me to another question:

    I am currently equipped with DDR2 sticks at 800 MHz, Corsair CL5 I believe, if I switch to DDR3 dual channel 1333, will I really see a difference in performance? Is the current price of around €80 worth the performance gain, or would it be better to wait for a complete setup change?
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  6. iznobe Posted messages 5 Status Member
     
    Thank you very much -ZORG-!!! And epango, that's exactly what I wanted to know.
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