How easy is it upgrade RAM

If I buy a Dell Precision M4400 with only 2GB of RAM (2 DIMMS), how easy is it for me (not incompetent, but certainly not a technical person) to a)figure out what RAM to buy; and b)install it properly?

Also, any idea how much a 2GB DIMM of RAM costs for the M4400? There are so many specs when I go to newegg.com, that i Have no idea what to select.

Thanks!

 

Its very easy.

Removing the DIMM B Module
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module retaining clips.

1. To remove the DIMM B module, spread away the retaining clips from the side edges of the memory module and lift the free edge of the module so that it sits at about a 30-degree angle to the system board.

2. Grasp the module at the side edges and pull it straight away from the connector. Place the module into anti-static packaging such as an anti- static bag.



1.


1: memory-module retaining clips (2)

2: memory module

3: DIMM B module

4: DIMM A module



In simple terms, pull the retaining clips apart, pull the memory out. Then put new memory in, close clips. And you are done.

 

Super easy! When you put it in, make sure you hear "click" sound. That way you know its in a secure position.

 

Easier than a desktop.

You are after DDR2-800 PC6400 200pin RAM.

I suggest you go for 2x2gb for 4gb. Keep in mind that a 32bit OS wont be able to read anymore than 3gb~ due to addressing limitations. Im still suggesting 4gb for futureproofing.

 

Just be sure to get SO-DIMM's (also called 200pin RAM). Of DDR2 sort.

And I agree that it's super easy to upgrade RAM on a notebook.

 

If I buy a computer with 1DIMM of 2GB, can I just buy 1 additional 2GB DIMM or must I buy 2 DIMMS of 2GB so that they match? Does this matter?

Also, are all of the brands pretty much the same or are some more reputable/quality than others? If I go to newegg.com, which brand should I be picking up (I have no clue what's different about any of them!).

Thanks again for the great help.

 

you can buy any other 2 GB as long as your laptop supports it. Generally all brands of RAM work, jsut make sure you have a lifetime warranty.

I personally like G.Skill, Mushkin, Kingston and they generally all are about the same price.

 

No, if you have a laptop with 1GB DIMM, other memory stick you buy doesn't need to be of a same amount. Concretely, if you buy a 2GB stick and put it next to 1GB you already have, you will have 3GB and they will work just fine.

Memory manufacturer is not important, just buy the cheapest memory you find. It is desirable to be one of reputable brands, but just in degree for not to be some kind of No-Name crap. Kingston Value RAM is cheap and will do the job. Just take care of it to be DDR2 stick, it is important.

 

Get the cheapest SO-DIMM DDR2 you can find with a few years warranty. Speed and timing don't matter.

 

Remember if you get two identical pieces of RAM it should be more compatible for Dual Channel to work! I don't know if that makes much difference for you though...and I am using Windows XP 32bit with 4Gb of RAM and it comes up with 3.5Gb so it's not far off. Maybe you have to make sure PAE is set to ON...

 

Thanks again! Does Cas Latency or Heat spreader matter at all?

 

I ended up buying the Latitude E6500 today. It has 2GB of RAM (1 DIMM). Can anyone tell me what type of RAM I need to buy for an upgrade to 4GB? I know it's SODIMM DDR2, but not sure on the other specs and can't seem to find the info online at Dell.com.

 

Well to be exact DDR2 800mhz PC2-6400 200pin SO-DIMM RAM 1.8v CL5

 

Based on my experiences with building desktops, CAS latency does matter a little, but only in specific instances that you probably wouldn't notice unless you used a stopwatch. That said, I always like to go for the lowest latency that's still reasonably priced.

I wouldn't worry about heat spreaders. I don't think I've ever seen them on SO-DIMMs ( okay, this is the first time I've ever seen them) and your laptop chassis doesn't have an acrylic glass window to the memory banks anyway.

 

Thanks everyone. I ended up buying this one (hopefully it's fine):

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820208407

 

Heat spreaders arent important. But the lower Cas Latency, the better.

The one you picked out has a high Cas Latency, but you will be happy with it anyway. It doenst make a huge difference.

 

no matter who makes the ram sticks, chances are the memory chips on it are from one of these two companies:

samsung
hynix

oh, kingston ram has a lifetime warranty

hmm i wonder if those ram sticks with heat spreaders would help with lowering the temps....the E6500/M4400 have vents for the ram!

 

Theres also other IC manufacturers like Micron, Elpida, Nanya

 

true, but samsung and hynix are huge. they own most of the market no?

 

its as easy as an apple pie