Connectors

Another important issue with regard to memory installation is with the metal used on the memory modules. You need to purchase memory modules that use pins plated with the same metal used in the memory socket on the motherboard. Memory modules use silver or gold plated pins. If the SIMM socket, for example, uses silver-plated connectors, the memory module you purchase must use silver-plated pins. If you mix metal types, you'll eventually have an unstable system.

Today's preferred memory modules are gold-plated DIMM modules. It is best not to assume you are using gold plated DIMMs, but to ensure you are installing the correct type of memory by checking the documentation for your system.

Parity versus non-parity

The final issue with regard to memory upgrades is whether the system uses parity or non-parity memory. This information can be determined by checking the documentation that came with the system or by checking the system summary in CMOS. If you can't find the information in CMOS or have misplaced the documentation, you can try to find the information on the Internet at the vendor's Web site. When you locate the information, use Table below to record the type of memory your system has so that you may refer to this when you perform a memory upgrade.

Memory Type (SDRAM, DDR)
Memory Speed (60 ns, 100MHz)
Gold or Silver pins
SIMM or DIMM