PC3200 RAM in 9100 only running at 333mhz!

[cheesehead]

My brand-new Dell 9100's RAM is only running at a poky 333mhz instead of the stated 400. Could I fix this by buying new RAM? (I was going to anyways.) If I were to buy new RAM, should I get PC2700 if that's the speed it's running at anyways?
Help would be REALLLY appreiceated here.

 

[manko]

It sounds like they sent you the wrong RAM. It should run at full speed. The 9100 and XPS needs PC3200 CL-3. I've heard of certain brands of PC3200 running slow on the 9100/XPS if you haven't got exactly the right type (like CAS 2.5 instead of 3). Or maybe they sent you 2700 by "mistake".

If they didn't send you what is on your invoice and order, then they should replace it. Or if you plan to upgrade anyway, you could ask for a credit.

 

[wjgollatz]

What did you use to determine the RAM speed? I never tested mine. Have you looked for any labels on your memory? I think there are some sites that can identify the the memory if you input certain numbers printed ont he chips.

 

[cheesehead]

To answere WJgollatz, you can just go into the BIOS-it's right there on the first page, a clearly-defined 333mhz. This stinks majorly, as I cannot do diddly about CAS latency-it's not supported in the BIOS. I'm calling dell ASAP. Maybe they'll let me return the memory included-at 60$ a stick, I have no use for it!
Out of curiousity, should I wipe the HD and reinstall all my programs? I've done my customary crap removal, but I crave speed....and I'm a cheapstake. I wish I had a DVD burner, though-backing up my files will be a PITA, and I've only owned it one week!
Also, can anyone reccomend a few accessories? Or do you know where to get replacement back plates? The plate that comes with the Dell is unpleasant-looking, and if I had a spare (which I could remove before shipping for maintence) I could paint it with a more appealing scheme.
Thanks,
Cheesehead.

 

[gryfon]

cheesehead what's the size of your memory ? i ordered an inspiron 9100 and also got a 333mhz dimm, i think it's related to the fact that i ordered only 256 ddr(2x128) i don't thing there's 128 mb sodimm ddr400 avail. infact on order confirmation it's stated clearly ddr333. The e-mail support is terrible when i asked about this problem, e-mailed them several times and got nothing .... Can't complain though, it's pretty cheap for bcos $500+$200rebate coupon. if i have some money maybe i'll buy a gig of ddr400.

cheers

 

[cheesehead]

I have 2x128 as well. I'm sort of peeved, though...my manual says otherwise.
For the record, you can get 2x512mb modules of Corsair Value Select for 190$ at NewEgg. Anyone know of a better price?
And does anyone think I should wipe my hard drive, or is it not worth the time?
Thanks,
Cheesehead.

 

[tyim]

Originally posted by: Cheesehead
My brand-new Dell 9100's RAM is only running at a poky 333mhz instead of the stated 400. Could I fix this by buying new RAM? (I was going to anyways.) If I were to buy new RAM, should I get PC2700 if that's the speed it's running at anyways?
Help would be REALLLY appreiceated here.

cpuz!

 

[Cherub]

When you select 256MB you will get PC2700. Upgrading to 512MB or more using sticks of PC3200 will bring you up to speed. You'd be crazy to pay Dell's prices for more memory anyway.

 

[gryfon]

where's that listed cherub ? Or it's from your personal expirience too ?
all i can find on dell website at the time i was buying 9100 is that 9100 is carrying ddr400 memory.

To cheesehead, what's the description on your service tag ? (goto dell.com and enter your service tag) On my system desciption based on service tag, the memory in my inspiron 9100 is ddr400 128mb x2.