Upgrading RAM in Dell Laptop

Lord Snooty

Well-known member
UKGSer Subscriber
Joined
Jan 6, 2002
Messages
11,402
Reaction score
2,785
Location
Redditch, Worcs
I have a Dell Inspiron 1501 laptop which runs Vista. The problem is that the 512mb RAM is clearly inadequate as the performance is dredful; apparantly Vista needs 1gb due to the size.

I have found a website that sells 1gb upgrades, it is two 512mb chips.

Is it a diy job to insert them? anybody out there ever carried out this type of upgrade to a Dell or any type of laptop? If it is a fairly simple and straighforward procedure then I'll do it myself.

Also, is it reasonable just to purchase one 512mb card to add to the one that I already have or do I have to buy them in pairs?
 
My Lord,

Run the System Scanner tool located here, it will take all the guess work out of it on what memory, what configuration and whether paired or not is necessary.

What's more if you buy the very well priced stuff from them off the back of it they will guarantee its right or full money back.

Good people to deal with :thumb
 
You should be fine putting in any memory that you comes to hand. It doesn't seem to matter if the memory is a different speed, as long as it's compatible. There's a good website where you can enter the laptop details and it will tell you the type of memory that you need, and the maximum size of memory that you can fit in that machine - google for Crucial or Kingston for more info.

To add memory, it's easy provided that you take your time and do a little preparation.

Unplug the laptop and place it face down on a clean, level surface. The memory is generally found under the laptop, behind a little door, with a screw in it.

While doing the job, try and sit or stand still - rubbing your shoes on carpet or rubbing cloth can create static which can damage the components. Componentry is a lot better than it was, but you might as well play safe.

Undo the cover to gain access to the memory.

Take your time and have a look inside. You should take note of:
1) There is a little key in the socket, so you can only put the memory in one way round
2) There are clips at the end of each socket that you spring outwards to release the memory, should you need them.
3) Try and find an exposed piece of metal that looks like part of the laptop chassis, but NOT a connector.

Now look at the memory, which should be in an antistatic bag or container. You should be able to see the slot that matches the key - take note of this for later.

Open the packaging for the memory and then, with your fingers, touch the inside of the packaging and the metal area that you checked for above. You, the laptop and the memory are now at the same voltage, which minimises the risk of damage to laptop or memory.

Take hold of the memory by the short edges, and avoid touching the chips or the connector.

Slot the memory into the socket and then push it firmly in so that it's fully located. Finally, push down along the back edge of the memory stick and it should locate with a satisfying click. If it doesn't go in neatly, undo the clips, pull it back out, and try again.

Finally, pop the lid back on, power it up, check the memory in the BIOS and Robert's yer Mother's brother. :thumb2

Edit - I see Judge has good taste in memory too.

It's a simple DIY job really - I'm just trying to teach you the best practice. Last time I had a laptop in bits, it was at a conference and I had all the bits on the table in front of me - the PC equivalent of a roadside engine strip, but a lot cleaner and quicker!
And just in case you don't believe me, Crucial have an install guide with photos.
 
Andy, Tobermory,

thanks guys, great info and advice. I have checked the crucial website and I will go for a 2gb upgrade.

:thumb:thumb
 


Back
Top Bottom