Memory module configuration

[marcerickson]

I have a Pavilion p6510f desktop with four RAM slots.  DIMM 1 and DIMM 2 are blue. DIMM 1 is closest to the processor, DIMM 2 is next, then DIMM 3 and DIMM 4 - both of which are black.  This computer has 4 GB of RAM in 2 sticks, installed in DIMM 3 and DIMM 4 slots.  This computer is behaving as if it needs more RAM.

Is this configuration correct for dual channel RAM to function?  If not, what is the correct configuration?  I have checked the User's Guide (2005250.pdf) and the Upgrading and Servicing Guide (c01859455.pdf) without enlightenment.  😉

[BeemerBiker]

I put in your model ID and there are 4 possible systems to choose from.

https://partsurfer.hp.com/partsurfer/?searchtext=P6510f

I picked the first one and look for memory and found the following

497157-D88

Memory - DIMM, 2GB, PC3-10600 NO LONGER SUPPLIED

Since you have an older system it is likely that used HP memory is best.  The part number above can be looked up on eBay , AliExpress, etc but I suggest you obtain memory matching what you already have.

Download CPUz and make a note of the model and look for a pair of the same memory sticks on the used market.

https://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html

for example the ":spd" dialog box.  where one can determine if the rank is dual or not and get the manufacture part#

Also the HP number.   You should put your product ID (not just the model number) here

https://partsurfer.hp.com/partsurfer/

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi:

Run the free utility that I zipped up and attached below and it will tell you if the memory is running in dual channel or not.

My guess is the matching capacities of memory go into the matching-colored slots for dual channel, as yours is now.

My PC's are different.  They are HP and Dell business class PC's.

There is only one black slot (which lets you know where the memory goes if you only have one chip), and the other 3 slots are white.

In order for the memory in my PC's to run in dual channel mode, the matching capacity memory has to be installed by installing one in the primary slot and the second one in the third slot from the black one.

In your PC, that would equate to the 2nd memory chip closest to the processor being placed in the blue slot furthest from the processor.

Here is a screenshot of the summary report from the utility, and you can see the memory in my PC is running in dual channel.

[marcerickson]

Thanks very much.

There was also a problem with the hard drive - it was in the process of failing.  I think that's part of the reason for the computer's slowness.

Thanks again.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.