Question : Problem: DDR SDRAM Memory Upgrade: Memory Speed Options

I have a Dell Optrex GX260 1.9Ghz P4 with a 400/533(overclocked?) MHz FSB.*

 The Dell company specs for said model indicate PC2100 266MHz DDR for memory, but I'm wondering if the FSB speed means I could use PC3200 400 MHZ DDR instead. It is easier to get a module with the latter specs second hand, and it would presumably have some performance advantages, even if the 32-Bit CPU lags a bit with some tasks.

 Also, if I'm using the higher-spec memory, do any BIOS settings NEED changing?

  *There are two available memory slots which can each take up to 1GB DDR SDRAM. I am currently using one slot (Slot 0 or "a") with a 256MB PC2100 266Mhz DDR module. Other specs are available at :

 support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/opgx260/en/ug/specs.htm#1110653

 Regards TW

Answer : Problem: DDR SDRAM Memory Upgrade: Memory Speed Options

MOST systems will work fine if higher speed memory is installed (it's supposed to be backward compatible) -- but NOT all.  The best thing to do is to use the specified memory (PC2100), but a PC3200 stick will most likely work fine.   Note that if you mix memory modules, all modules will run at the speed of the slowest module (e.g. if you leave your PC2100 module installed, any other modules will also run at that speed).   You do not need to change any BIOS settings.