Memory upgrade query

nlgbbbblth

My computer (Dell Dimension 2200 - purchased in 2002) has 128MB and can be upgraded to 512MB.

It is running quite slowly despite having broadband. If I get up and do something else for say 30 minutes leaving site(s) open and then return it gets even slower.

According to www.komplett.ie this would cost €53 x 2 for two 256MB slots. I presume I would have to remove the existing 128MB of RAM as I have only two slots.

Is additional memory difficult to install? Any pitfalls like losing stuff or am I ok as it's all on the hard drive?

Creamy Goodness

you won't loose any data, unless you place a big magnet on your hard drive.

of course you'll lose whatever was on the RAM but once you shut down you lose it anyways.

make sure you're getting the correct ram for your computer, ie. pc133/DDR/DDR2/Rambus although i doubt it's DDR2.

Ruu_Old

Nope its fairly easy to install additional ram. You are correct in saying you will need to remove the existing ram. You probably want to backup just incase as a precaution. Remember the biggest danger is ESD, so earth yourself by touching (a few times) the metal part of the case when you remove the cover. The ram you are looking for is PC133 SD RAM 168pin.

Locate the memory slots. Remove the old memory by pressing down on the little ejector clips on each end of the memory socket until the memory stick pops out of the socket, then you just lift it out.

You want to install the new ram now to do this, first locate the little notches on the pin-side of the module. These notches (usually two) will line up with keys on the memory socket itself, to ensure proper alignment. With the ejector clips in the open position, position the module over the slot and begin pressing the module down into the slot. You will need to press down pretty hard. As you press down, the module will sink into place and the ejector clips will close themselves to lock the module into place.

NUTLEY BOY

Did that same job about two years ago. Very easy.

When removing old chip(s) and inserting new ones use firm but gentle pressure. Don't force anything.

Be sure to keep touching your fingers off earthed metal to drain any static you may be generating. You would be surprised at what nylon in your socks could do if you have been sliding around on the carpet with no shoes !!

Read the relevant DELL knowledge base article on how to do the procedure for your machine before you operate on the patient. You should find it on their website.

Do the procedure by the numbers and you cannot go wrong.

nlgbbbblth

Thanks for the info, guys.