memory RAM issues

[sandeepmur]

Hello,

I need to upgrade the memory of both my desktop and my laptop. Since I began searching for
the right memory, I have come across so many different types (DDR, DIMM, SDR etc...), I am
now thoroughly confused.

Can anyone please provide some suggestions on How I can detect my machine´s memory specs, its
compatability with the one I want to purchase??

thnx in adv,
sg

 

[Blujacket]

You can plug in the make and model of both at

http://www.crucial.com

or

http://www.kingston.com

and get information on what the computers/motherboards will accept. Notebooks usually use a smaller-sized module called SODRAM/SODIMM.

 

[cdogg]

I agree that

http://www.crucial.com

is an excellent place to start. Also if you post the speed and type of CPU in each system, we can narrow it down for you.

Don't forget to try going to Start->Run, type dxdiag and hit OK. This will quickly give you some of that info.

~cdogg
[tab]"All paid jobs absorb and degrade the mind"
[tab][tab]- Aristotle

 

[sandeepmur]

Hi guys,

Thnx for the znswers. I have solved the problem with my laptop but with the desktop still having trouble.

My desktop is a P II 333 MHz machine. any suggestions on the kind of RAM I should use ??

thnx a bunch,
sg

 

[franky77]

I would figure your RAM would be PC 100Mhz or PC 133Mhz sdram, depends on what your FSB is (Front side bus)
If it is PC 100, you can run either PC 100Mhz or PC 133Mhz memory in it, but if it is PC 133Mhz you will need PC 133Mhz memory. So, you need to find out your FSB, Now you can find this out by going into your BIOS and it should tell you there. Need any more help just reply someone will help you!

 

[cdogg]

sg,
First of all, FSB stands for "frontside bus" which is the connection between the CPU and motherboard chipset.

The early PII's still used a 66MHz FSB, thus requiring PC66 SDRAM memory. PII's did eventually upgrade to 100MHz FSB, so you'll want definitely go into your BIOS to see if you can find a reading.

The next step is choosing memory. PC100 and PC133 chips are "technically" backwards compatible to run at lower speeds like 66MHz. However you need to be careful about their density. Double-sided chips (modules on both sides of the memory stick) are typically less dense than single-sided ones and are more compatible on older PII motherboards. Almost all PC133 chips being sold today are single-sided, so for this system avoid them like the plague.

Only buy from a vendor that guarantees compatibility backing it with a refund. Also be sure to stay away from "generic" and "house" brands, going with top-name suppliers like Micron (Crucial), Kingston, or Corsair.

http://www.pricewatch.com

may be a good place for you to check out prices.

~cdogg
[tab]"All paid jobs absorb and degrade the mind"
[tab][tab]- Aristotle