RAM for G4 Power Mac, which kind?

[ChrisA]

If seems that I have a choice. A couple kinds of RAM are listed as "working". The machine is a G4 Power Mac "Digital Audio" that has had a processor upgrade to a G4 1.2Ghz. "About this Mac" shows two RAM parts 256MB and 128MB both listed as "PC133 333".

OWC (macsales.com) list two parts they say will fit

• PC133 CL3 322
• PC133 CL2 222

Will the faster part really make any difference? I want to pull the 128MB SIMM and put in two 512MB parts.

 

[deadpixels]

you're talking about the difference in latency speed? if yes and you don't mind reading a bit, see here --> Does RAM Latency Matter? i didn't read the whole thing but it seems really detailled

 

[Sweetfeld28]

You can use any stick that is PC133 compatible, 128, 256, or 512MB. You could even use PC133/PC100 sticks, these are backwards compatible sticks. Hope that helps.

 

[CanadaRAM]

You can use any stick that is PC133 compatible, 128, 256, or 512MB. You could even use PC133/PC100 sticks, these are backwards compatible sticks. Hope that helps.

ummm...no. Not any PC133 will work.

The module has to be correctly programmed (SPD settings) to be recognized by the Mac. If not it will kernel panic or just not be recognized. Remember all the fuss caused by Firmware Upgrade 1.2 when improperly programmed modules stopped working?
It also cannot be a high density 512 Mb module.

The earliest "Yikes" (PCI) G4's and the B&W G3's have more stringent requirements yet.

Your best bet is to go with a reputable seller who teats and guarantees compatibility with your specific model Mac, offers a lifetime warranty and a no cost return or exchange if it doesn't work.

Thanks
Trevor
CanadaRAM.com