11-01-2007, 04:25 PM
Quote:Gimmick! The spec on the MB says it supports 533/667/800/1200MHz memory. 1200MHz isn't an official spec for DDR2 that I'm seeing, 800MHz is the fastest I can find. So you want DDR2 800 memory for the official speed, and go for a higher rating to have a better chance of success at overclocking. To take full advantage of the speed (dual channel), you need to have 2 physical sticks of memory. I'd recommend 2x1GB at the minimum, and 2x2GB if possible at this point. Prices on DDR2 are dropping like a rock. My preferred brands are Corsair and Mushkin.I actually have some DDR2 that is spec'd for 1066MHz (and can supposedly go faster via overclock). I saw some 1200MHz sticks available, as well, but it was outrageously expensive so I didn't go for it.
As for brands, I use some Ballistix RAM. It is awesome. :)
I would also echo Quark's point that you should invest in a good-ish power supply. I opted for a good Thermaltake supply for my girlfriend's computer (it's nice and quiet) and I use a PC Power and Cooling supply for my computer. Both get rave reviews on a number of websites (like Tom's Hardware or Newegg) and I have had no problems so far.
-TheDragoon