Is 667MHz memory compatible with a 533MHz PC

Jas

New Member
Hi

I'm looking for a little help. I would like to upgrade the memory in an old DELL Dimension 5150 desktop PC which I have.

I believe the PC memory runs at 533MHz. The memory which I'm looking to buy is the correct spec apart from it being rated at 667MHz.

Could I use memory rated at 667MHz in a PC running at 533MHz?
 
As stated above, it should just downclock.
Most sticks have a table of frequencies and timings that they'll run at based on JEDEC.
 
Rule of thumb is faster memory works OK in a slower computer but you don't want to put slow memory in a faster computer.
 
Rule of thumb is faster memory works OK in a slower computer but you don't want to put slow memory in a faster computer.

That's not really the case, many modern computers can utilize speeds upwards of DDR3-3000, but lots of people run it with DDR3-1600, 1800, 2133, etc.
 
That's not really the case, many modern computers can utilize speeds upwards of DDR3-3000, but lots of people run it with DDR3-1600, 1800, 2133, etc.
It's not a question of whether it will work or not, they take a performance hit for running with slower memory which is why you don't really want to put slower memory in a faster computer.

Putting fast memory in a slow computer doesn't buy you anything but it will work.
 
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