Off-brand memory- bad idea?

[eggy99]

I need to upgrade memory in a Cisco 3660 router. I have actually already ordered Cisco brand memory, but it will take up to 2 weeks to arrive, and I need it ASAP! I can order off-brand memory online (

http://www.ciscomemoryupgrades.com/12sdmeforci32.html)

for a fraction of Cisco's price and much sooner. CiscoMemoryUpgrades claims the memory is from a Cisco-approved manufacturer. Has anybody bought off-brand memory for their Cisco gear, and if so, did it give you any problems? The price being so low compared to Cisco makes me a little nervous.

Thanks,
Jeff Eggenberger

 

[vipergg]

Well if you have a problem where you have to send the equipment back to cisco and they find that there memeory is not installed then they might tell you lots of luck pal . I agree cisco memory is way overpriced but there is not a lot you can do about it you have a cisco maintenance contract , they have you by the you know whats .

 

[MartinR82]

it will be a case of suck it and see.

If its any help, I have upgraded many PIXs with non cisco memory (crucial) and this has been fine. Its also worth noting that Cisco are using Crucial memory on supervisor engines for cats and NPEs for 7200s.

So as long as you buy the correct spec memory I cant see it being a problem

Try this..

http://www.crucial.com/uk/store/listProductLine.asp?cat=RAM&mfr=Cisco&submit=Go

and see if it can help

 

[KiscoKid]

Non-Cisco memory is so low simply because Cisco overcharge considerably. The non-Cisco memory I've bought previously (also Crucial - same as previous poster) has been rock solid for me.

Viper's point is a valid one. Just remember to take out your non-Cisco memory and replace with the original sticks before you send anything back via RMA, i.e. it's potentially a good idea to keep the original Cisco mem around

 

[tech1994]

I've also used "non-Cisco brand name" memory before and have never had a issue with it. I think I have even RMA'd a router before with non brand memory and didn't have a issue, but of course your mileage may vary.

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[MemGod1170]

Cisco Approved" means that the memory is made by one of Cisco's "Approved Manufacturers" (Smart, Viking, PNY, etc) as Cisco does not actually produce their own memory. If you use "Approved Memory" and have a warranty issue that was caused by the memory you installed, then you will be covered. If you are not under a maintenance contract or warranty then Third Party is completely fine. It is the same memory made by another manufacturer but can be different in design (utilizing a different board or chipset design) but will work the same in your system.

 

[lgarner]

The last time I replaced Cisco memory, the original RAM *was* from Crucial. I have no problem recommending their product. Warranty service might be an issue, so keep the original just in case, though I don't see how Cisco could tell- I couldn't find anything physically different in the labeling on the sticks.

Plus, you can buy a few sets of Crucial memory for the price of one Cisco-provided set.

 

[ncotton]

Crucial is the way to go...for anything, not just routers. I always try and use crucial. Cheaper than the high fliers, but probably made by the same guy in the same factory somewhere in asia as allthe other higher priced modules.

Neil J Cotton
njc Information Systems
Systems Consultant