RAM support for hp 15 n209tx

[simeon15]

I am interested to upgrade my RAM from 8gb (4gb*2) to the max capacity. Below I have listed the instruction manual suggestions for RAM configurations.

Manual, page 2-3
http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c04438537

Two SODIMM customer-accessible/upgradable memory module slots
DDR3L-1600-MHz dual channel support
DDR3L-1600-MHz single channel support
Supports
up to 12 GB max system memory (DDR3L-1600MHz module), (select models only)
Supports the following system RAM configurations:
● 12288 MB (8192 MB×1+ 4096 MB×1)
● 8192 MB (8192 MB×1 or 4096 MB×2); not supported on computer models equipped
● 6144 MB (4096 MB×1 + 2048 MB×1); not supported on computer models equipped with a 32-bit operating system
● 4096 MB (4096 MB×1 or 2048 MB×2)
● 2048 MB (2048 MB×1)

It states that the max is 12gb i.e 1*8gb + 1*4gb. What i would like to know id about dual channel and speeds. With my current setup I have 2*4gb so it is running in dual channel. If I upgrade to 12gb there are 2 possible senarios:

1. If memory required is less than 8gb. Then  is 2*4gb  faster than 1*8gb ? What happens to 1*8gb in terms of dual vs single channel?

2. If memory required is greater than 8gb. How does dual channel work and what is impact on speed?

My processor i5 4200u supports 16gb RAM so in that case can't I install 2*8gb? Will my laptop support 16gb even though max is 12gb?

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

Yes, you can install 2 x 8 GB of memory.

The max of 12 GB set forth in the service manual is incorrect.

You want 2 x 8 GB so the notebook's memory runs in dual channel mode.

With an 8 GB + a 4 GB chip, the notebook's memory would run in single channel mode, as it would with an empty slot.

[simeon15]

You are 100% sure about manual being incorrect? 

[Paul_Tikkanen]

I am 200% sure.  😊

Even the Crucial memory report indicates that 2 x 8 GB is supported in your model.

https://www.crucial.com/compatible-upgrade-for/hP---Compaq/pavilion-15-n209tx