asplund@alcor.usc.edu (Daryl) (02/07/90)
Hello all, I have a Compaq '386/16 and have some questions regarding the design and architecture of the 32-bit memory and how it interacts with 16-bit memory. My questions arise because I have completely filled the 32-bit 2 Megabyte memory board. It seems as though my options are limited in respect on how to add more memory to my system. Now the questions: 1. I was told that if I added a 16-bit memory expansion card (using a slot) that the memory would not be linked contiguously with the current 2Mb that is on the 32-bit board; thus not allowing me to use one memory manager/driver to access all the extended/expanded memory. The reason given for this is that 32-bit memory works completely differently that 16-bit, therefore it would not all be seen as one "chunk" of memory. IS THIS CORRECT? 2. As the Compaq 32-bit expansion card (connects to the current 32-bit card) is about $700.00, does anyone know of any other makers of expansion cards that connect DIRECTLY to the Compaq supplied 32-bit memory card? I have heard that Kingston (a company in California) makes such a product. Has anyone had experience with this company / product? Is it reliable? 3. If I could get a 16-bit card to work (i.e. all memory accessible contiguousness), would I have to use static column ram as is on the 32-bit card? Or would I be safe using DRAM, since the access speed is 16-bit as opposed to 32-bit? Thanks in advance for the time and effort to answer my questions. Responses to any, all (or combination there of), are welcomed and appreciated. Please send ALL responses directly to me at: asplund@alcor.usc.edu