To Add RAM or Trade Out?

[SeaWolfxix]

I read through the RAM sticky, but I still have some questions.

1.) I have 512mb dual channel running right now in my desktop, but I'd like to upgrade to 1024mb dual channel. After I buy the 1gb, should I completely take my old 512mb out? My MB has 4 slots, so would it work if I had the 2x512mb in the first corresponding slots and the 2x256mb in the remaining slots? I guess what I'm really asking is 'will two dual channel RAM systems work together on 1 motherboard?'.

2.) Where does one go to configure their RAM to 'overclock' and such?

3.) My desktop is a pre-built XPS. How do I know how much RAM my motherboard can support? I can physically see that it has 4 slots. Does this mean it can support up to 4gb of RAM? Or atleast the 1024 + 512 from the first question?

 

[Praetor]

i have 512mb dual channel running right now in my desktop, but i'd like to upgrade to 1024mb dual channel. after i buy the 1gb, should i completely take my old 512mb out ? my mb has 4 slots, so would it work if i had the 2x512mb in the first corresponding slots and the 2x256mb in the remaining slots ? i guess what i'm really asking is 'will two dual channel ram systems work together on 1 motherboard ?' .

if you buy 2x512 and install it, you can have dual channel 1.5gb but thats only on newer platforms

where does one go to configure their ram to 'overclock' and such ?

bios. you can do it in software too but its, imo, "not the same"

my desktop is a pre-built xps. how do i know how much ram my motherboard can support ?

im guessing 4gb

i can physically see that it has 4 slots. does this mean it can support up to 4gb of ram ? or atleast the 1024 + 512 from the first question ?

you'll be fine. the smallest memory ammount support on a reasonably new system is 2gb so you'll be fine. noting that you have a dell, you wont be overclocking much if any

have a look at the OC 101.