RAM how much is enough and future compatability?

[bigslammer]

I am considering adding more RAM to my p2-350mhz. Currently I have 96mb and am considering getting an additional 128mb of RAM. But my friends say that having 224mb of RAM on my system won't really do much and that after 128mb there is diminishing returns with each mb added. Also I want to buy and need specs on RAM that will be compatable on my next PC(a p3-550mhz).

[Nathan]

Depending on your motherboard, P3 and P2 may not be compatiable. Is your motherboard supporting the 100 MHZ speed?

As to the memory issue, what are you using the computer for? Some games out there require 256 MB of total memory. Keep in mind, that's what it requires as a minimum. It'll run better with more ram. So if you had that much in ram, the game would run much easier and your system would cooler.

[This message has been edited by Nathan (edited 06-20-99).]

[KillerBug]

You don't need more than 128mb, once you do need more, memory prices will be down.

[a Bill]

I use 320 megs in my game machine, Unreal is s_m_o_k_i_n'_ http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif Some games can and will use more than 128 megs but most don't _yet_. I think the diminishing return theory occurs after 256 megs. I could probably pop the 64 meg stick out of the box and not see a real difference, but as long as I have it, it's used better in the computer than in the closet.

For your next RAM purchase that will be compatible for the PIII-550, any PC-100 RAM is fine. It's still too early to worry about PC-133 RAM.

[dawgtuff]

I agree with bringing your ram to 128.However,I'd wait on buying a P3-550(unless you have money to burn).The next wave of CPU's are gonna knock your socks off!That's when I'm gonna update.
If your into gaming,buy a 32mb video card of your choice for now,and then a very good "large monitor".Be patient,things change very quickly!...DawgTuff.