A new notebook and SDRAM??

[zaaxtilh]

I don't know too much about upgrading, but I wanted to buy a new laptop. I'm thinking about an hp pavilion zt1175 notebook pc but I would need to upgrade the RAM to 512, it comes with 256MB DDRAM (upgradable up to 1024MB), I heard buying addtional was rather expensive and was wondering if that was true and should I instead buy another computer (DELL?) that offers the additional 256 for $400 more?? Below is an excerpt from the reference guide for adding RAM to the computer. What do you recommend?? Or what other information do I need to know about upgrading before I buy??

Your notebook has no memory (RAM) built in, but has two slots for removable RAM modules: the system RAM slot beneath the keyboard (which contains a module installed at the factory), and an expansion slot on the bottom of the unit. You can use both of these slots to expand your unit’s RAM. Use DDR 266 SDRAM only.

[pentachris]

I've been scoping out notebooks recently, helping my sister find a good one. Most of what I've heard about HP's hasn't been good. Dell Latitudes have a good reputation. Good luck.

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Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once.

[zaaxtilh]

Okay I think I've talked to enough people to be convinced, I'm planning on purchasing a DELL Inspiron 8200
so the question is do I get 512MB,DDR,266M,2DIMM [add $400] or do I just stick with the 128MB,DDR,266M,1DIMM it comes with and upgrade to 512 after??


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LR

[pentachris]

If you'll be running 2000 or XP, 256 MB is about as low as I'd want. 512 might be overkill though, especially for that much money. What will you use it for?

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Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once.

[zaaxtilh]

I have to run and rectify some rather large aerial/orthophotos on ArcGIS; 256 is minimum, 512 recommended.

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LR

[pentachris]

Well, there's no question on how much MB, then. You'll just have to see how many dimms it'll hold, find the best price and assess your ability to install them - which may result in your having to pay fo that to be done. I know nothing about notebook insides, so I can't help you there. Then compare that to $400. I can't see why you couldn't do it cheaper after market. I'd expect if anyone but a Dell certified tech opens it up, your warranty will be void, though...

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Some mistakes are too much fun to make only once.

[saphalline]

There's another way to find out if you can upgrade it yourself, which is preferable. Just call a Dell service rep and casually ask about installing more RAM. Dell service reps are knowledgable about their systems (or their boss, either way) and should have the answer. If it turns out that you can upgrade the RAM by yourself without voiding the warranty (quite possible with Dell's products) then it would be cheaper to get less RAM at the start.

I searched on Crucial's website (same company as Micron) and got a link to their DDR RAM modules that will work with the Inspiron 8200 series notebooks. Here's the link, it's a monster:
http://www.crucial.com/store/listparts.asp?Mfr%2BProductline=Dell%2BInspiron&model=Inspiron+8200+Series&submit=Go

For two 256MB Crucial modules (best RAM in existence IMHO) it will cost you $199.64 (2-day shipping from them has been free for about 6 months now, LOL). That's $200 cheaper and you'll have an extra 128MB module left over that you'll be replacing. As you can see, you don't even have to sell it to come out ahead but perhaps a trip to eBay wouldn't hurt, either http://www.PCGuide.com/ubb/smile.gif.

Just an idea if you want to use it...

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Windows 95: A 32-bit extension of a 16-bit overlay for an 8-bit OS that was originally designed for a 4-bit processor by a 2-bit company that can't produce 1 bit of good software!