Which DIMM Slots for Dual Channel?

Dual channel memory is a technology that allows your computer to run two separate channels of memory at the same time. This can double your memory bandwidth and potentially improve your system’s performance.

When you add a second memory module to a dual-channeled motherboard, you’ll need to decide which slots to use. The most common configuration is to put the modules in slots 1 and 3 or 2 and 4.

But there are other options as well.

If you have two identical modules, it doesn’t matter which slot you use for each one. However, if your modules are different sizes, you’ll need to put the larger module in the lower-numbered slot.

For example, if you have a 4 GB module and an 8 GB module, put the 4 GB module in slot 1 and the 8 GB module in slot 3.

Some motherboards have four slots for dual-channel memory, but not all of them will be enabled if you only have two modules installed. In that case, you’ll need to consult your motherboard’s documentation to figure out which slots will work together.

In general, it’s best to populate all available slots when adding RAM, even if you’re not using dual-channel mode. That way, you’ll be able to take advantage of any future improvements in memory technology without having to buy new modules.

The bottom line is that there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of which DIMM slots to use for dual-channel memory. It depends on your motherboard and your specific modules.

However, as long as you match the modules correctly and populate all available slots when possible, you should be able to take advantage of this performance-enhancing technology.