I need laptop RAM - tell me what do you think?

Live forum: http://forum.freeipodguide.com/viewtopic.php?t=39942

crazyates

24-05-2006 18:31:21

I'm gonna be getting a laptop in college. It's a pretty nice laptop, but i'm looking at ubgrading. It comes w/ 1gb of RAM, but i want a lil more wink

here's some info on the laptop i'm getting.

http//www.gcc.edu/1240.php
http//shopping.comcast.net/search_techspecs_full.php/masterid=14947502
http//h10010.www1.hp.com/wwpc/us/en/sm/WF06a/321957-304452-306995-304455-306995-457948.html?jumpid=reg_R1002_USEN

I'm not all that comp savy, but here's what i've benn figuring out. It takes 533 mhz DDRII SDRAM. I'm looking at adding another gig, maybe just another 512, i dunno. that depends on funds wink.

here's some more info about upgrading w/ this specific laptop
http//forums1.itrc.hp.com/service/forums/bizsupport/questionanswer.do?threadId=918272

Now the only thing i can't figure out is if they use 2 x 512 in both slots, or if they use a full 1024 in the main slot and leave the easy to access slot open. The second one would be ideal, and that's why i'm leaning toward getting a 1 gig chip when i upgrade. Cuz if i replace a 512 w/ another 512 it won't do anything, but if i can at least up it to 1 1/2 gig, i'll be a lil ahead. lol

Now i'm a little confused cuz one place said it takes DDRII SDRAM, but another said it takes DDRII SODIMM. What's the difference, and which one do i need?

anyways, down to my final question. What would you guys suggust for a (cheap) 1gb 533mhz DDRII SDRAM? assuming this is what i need, I'd really like this for an upgrade. I checked TigerDirect, but to be honest i can't even look at prices till i know what i need. If you could help me out, that'd be great.

Thanks!

dmorris68

24-05-2006 18:44:31

SODIMM is the package/form-factor standard for laptops. It's still SDRAM. So both are correct terms.

Almost always, unless it's a custom build like from Dell where you can specify the RAM configuration you want, you will get both slots filled. Which is a waste if you intend to upgrade.

I would first ask, if as you say you aren't that "computer savy," why you think you need more than 1GB? Especially for a college laptop. With the exception of some heavy-duty games, or some specific type of software work, you really won't gain much if anything from going to 1.5GB. I wager you won't notice a bit of difference. I went from 1GB to 2GB in my gaming box, and while I can certainly tell a difference in BF2, Oblivion, and some of the development tools I use, for general Windows desktop work there is no difference at all.

JOSHBOX

24-05-2006 20:48:54

my question is, is there any specific reason for a tablet. Tablets have small hinges and tend to break under even normal wear and tear around the swivel hinge. Other than that it seems alright (steep for what it is but then again tablets are always high). I can almost garuntee your going to be looking at a 2x512 configuration so you will have to sell the old ram on ebay probably to recoup from buying 2x1GB. I would also consider why you need 2 gigs unless you are doing drafting/design, 3d work, or heavy gaming 1 gig will be sufficient.

Here is the memory you would need (not on sale but at least you get the idea)

http//www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820146517

crazyates

26-05-2006 20:27:15

[quote860d019817="JOSHBOX"]my question is, [b860d019817]is there any specific reason for a tablet.[/b860d019817] Tablets have small hinges and tend to break under even normal wear and tear around the swivel hinge. Other than that it seems alright (steep for what it is but then again tablets are always high). [b860d019817]I can almost garuntee your going to be looking at a 2x512 configuration[/b860d019817] so you will have to sell the old ram on ebay probably to recoup from buying 2x1GB. I would also consider why you need 2 gigs [b860d019817]unless you are doing drafting/design[/b860d019817], 3d work, or heavy gaming 1 gig will be sufficient.

Here is the memory you would need (not on sale but at least you get the idea)

http//www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820146517[/quote860d019817]

ok thanks. I'm gonna comment on the three bolds above

The college gives you a tablet. It prolly wouldn't be my first choise, but it looks descent and you can use the tablet function for taking notes, which is very handy.

I was afraid of the 2x512 configuration. That makes it harder for upgrading, so i guess i'll have to see when i actually get the laptop, and then descide what to do from there.

I'm looking at upping the RAM cuz of that exact reason. HeavyDuty graphic design.
I also want more cuz when i graduate 4 years from now, the computer will be much more useable w/ 2gig of ram than 1. Look at computers made 4 years ago, and at the very least they're outdated, if not obsolete. A little extra ram will help take the edge off

I wasn't looking at spending more than 125-150. If anything goes on sale, i'll be sure to keep my eyes open. thanks!

compuguru

26-05-2006 20:34:50

Eh, you're not going to be able to do much with that computer in 4 years. I'd advise you save your money for a new computer when you graduate. The way things are advancing, your Tablet may not be compatible with the latest and greatest Gaphics Design program 4 years from now.

EDIT Just re-read your post. Are you going to be doing the heavy duty stuff in college?

JOSHBOX

27-05-2006 00:24:18

i would plan on about 200 to upgrade the memory. But you wont be able to use that computer after 4 years. it will simply be outdated. But spend 200-240 on memory and sell the 1 gig for 80 on ebay.

crazyates

27-05-2006 08:46:39

so could i just get two of these?

http//www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/item-details.asp?EdpNo=1482949

it's 86, and one of them gets a $8 rebate.
so that's 164 shrug

is it better to go w/ more expensive RAM? like does it make a difference what comany makes it?

JOSHBOX

27-05-2006 12:11:52

Yes those would work, or you could look for faster speed memory for a good investment.

CougarKid

27-05-2006 13:00:35

http//www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820227110

Eh?

crazyates

27-05-2006 14:40:19

joshbox

dosn't the computer only handle up to 533? or are you talking about selling them when i'm done?

i like that new egg link. that looks better. thanks!