If you increase the Ram should the extra MB match the one you have already

[Almendros]

Hi, I have a Windows XP Home that I am now going to start using as have trouble with my other computer. The Ram is a Kingston 256 MB DDR. If I want to boost this do I have to match this or can I increase to what I want ?
This computer hasnt had a DVD before, I installed one and it plays tjhe sound but is asking for a decoder. What one do you suggest that doesnt ask too many questions when you install it, like K-lite for instance........Thanks for any help

[MarkRae]

You will need to check the motherboard manual (or on line) to find out what types of RAM it supports. This, plus the number of RAM slots, will determine how much you can install.

However, you might prefer to think about a brand new machine, as it sounds like the one you have is very old now. You might be surprised that it may cost not much more than the upgrades to your current one...

[Almendros]

Thanks Mark, My present computer is a shop made one. It did have a 80GB HD. but after a lot of freezing problems (BSOD etc) I took it in for repair and I ended up with
2 S/Hand ones (which I didnt ask for !) 12GB + 37GB, and the old one back. sound card C-Media AC97.
Despite various codecs Media playr 3.3.9.VLC 1.1.9 and K.lite 710 I am unable to get a clear DVD The C.media site does not recognise this model for an update, so I want to go with my other computer. This must have come from a similar make up. The CDs have the identical model no. and the sound card is a Realtek AC97 they are both 2004 vintage. This model works ok and I dont think it has hardly been used. It is absolutely squeaky clean inside.I had to put the DVD in the CD slot because the ribbon only supported one item and was too short to do anything else. The DVD plays good sound in there but it is asking for a Decoder, Hence my question above for just one good one. I am not in a rush for extra Ram, I am not a 'Games' man
But the Mobo is VIA...Chipset KM400 Southbridge VT8235 Revision 00
I now see there is a VIA.com so I suppose I put my query there. I would like your advice on the Decoder though. Thanks for your help

[fiesata]

''The Ram is a Kingston 256 MB DDR. If I want to boost this do I have to match this or can I increase to what I want''

It is likely there will be a limit of 1Gb RAM - if you go to crucial memory and download the memory checker it will tell you what the Motherboard will support

''This computer hasnt had a DVD before, I installed one and it plays the sound but is asking for a decoder''

What are you using to play the DVD - try VLC player from http://www.videolan.org/
It will play most things without worrying you for CODECS

[Almendros]

Thanks Mark I will try it out