Adding RAM - compatibility issues?

I have 1GB 533Mhz DDR2 memory and I'd like to buy a second. Sadly, the store doesn't sell that brand anymore. I'd like to buy another one but I've heard nasty things about compatibility issues between different memories inside the same computer. I know it would have to be 533Mhz just like my current one. But there are other specifications such as latency etc. which I am not familiar with. Do I have to watch out for those aswell? If so, what are they?

 

Just check your motherboard manual and check to see the maximum amount of memory your computer can have. Also check to see what the maximum MHz it can take.

As far as I can tell you should be fine putting up to another 1GB into your computer at long as its the same stats.

 

Run the on-line RAM scanner at www.crucial.com

It will give you all the details of RAM installed on your PC.
It will give you expansion options and suggested pricing. Bazza

PS: Unless you are a heavy user, or serious gamer, or something is recommending that you install more RAM, I wouldn't bother.
I have 2 gigs in my laptop and all of the time the extra gig just sits there un-used.:cry

Install FreeRam XP Pro first, before buying more RAM and keep an eye on the Free Ram figure shown down by the time (bottom right of screen)

http://www.majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=1670

You will probably find that even with 1 gig of RAM, 300-400 megs of RAM is un-used most of the time. 2 gigs is great for Vista, but overkill for XP, IMO.

Bazza

 

On the subject of how much RAM I need, my comp can't keep up when I have my 6 messengers on, WoW in the background, and winamp open.

EDIT: Btw I AM running Vista. XP