RAMs with different speeds...

[genericQ]

Hello. Kinda new to building PCs here so kindly enlighten newbie here :)

The RAM I bought from Newegg was a pack with 2 512MB DDR2 800 pc2-6400. One turned out to be DoA so now I have to get it replaced, problem is I'd have to send the whole pack and return the good one too. I'd like to buy memory from a retail store while I wait for the RMA but of course I don't want to buy another pc2-6400 since it'd be too expensive for me and I can get it online much cheaper.

so.

can I get something less prettier, like a pair of pc2-4200 or 3200 maybe, but still be able to use them alongside my pc2-6400s when I get the replacements? If I put 1 pair of pc2-3200 (or other ddr2 rams) in one channel and the pc2-6400s on another channel, would that work?

Thanks!

[blue60007]

I don't know why that would cause problems, BUT the faster RAM would run at the slower RAM's speed, which would defeat the purpose of the fast RAM and the $$$. And if you're running AM2 you definitely need DDR2-800.

[genericQ]

BUT the faster RAM would run at the slower RAM's speed

I see. Yup I'm on AM2. Thanks

[glc]

I would wait till you get your RMA return - buying retail ram would be a waste unless you bought the same speed.