Notebook computer memory upgrade

[kornermi]

Hi,

I am about to order inspiron 8200 laptop from dell, and it looks like they charge much more for additional 258MB or 128MB memory stick than Crucial.com does. So, is it ok to order this memory from Crucial and pay less? I mean, are they the same thing as the one Dell offers? And, is it easy to intall memory onto a laptop? I assembled desktop computers a few times, but never opened up notebook computer. Can I do that only with a screw driver? Thanks.

 

[Zim Hosein]

kornermi, Dell does charge a premium for laptop memory, I got lucky when I bought mine they doubled the memory for free As for ordering from Crucial, that's the way to go. As for installing the additional memory, all you need is a screwdriver, fast and easy. Also take note that the manual for your new laptop has complete instructions on how to add the extra RAM. Hope this helps

 

[VBboy]

www.Crucial.com - that's all you need to know Too bad Dell doesn't let you order a laptop without ANY memory... Dell doesn't "rip you off" on memory, like IBM does, but they do charge extra...

 

[SteelCityFan]

I agree. Go with Crucial.

When I ordered my 8100, Dell wanted too much for their RAM, and they also only sold CL3 PC133. I ordered the laptop with 2 64MB sticks (lowest cost I could). I replaced both of those with 1 256MB CL2 stick from crucial. I only wish I had purchased 2 - 256MB sticks back then when they were $45 each. I kick myself for that all the time. It is not worth it to me to spend $89 to go to 512 on it, but it is worth $45 to me.

Edit:

The hardest part about installing the RAM is getting the small cover off the back. It is just a couple screws, but the door can be tricky to get out... just use a small flat screwdriver to pry it up carefully if you need to. The Dell will have 2 slots both of which can be used (some laptops come with 1 soldered stick and one user accessable). Basically, the RAM gets put in the slot at an angle, and then snapped down against the PCB. Very easy.