Upgrade my PC - Would you advise??

daz69kay

Hi. Is it easy to follow instructions on how to add more RAM etc in your desktop. I know nothing about Hardware but i want to buy RAM and maybe CPU.

I have the following installed:256mb DDR momory (pc3200)
and CPU Intel Celeron 2.80 GHz.

I have one more slot to add one more memory. I was thinking a 512mb on top of. If i did this would it burn out my CPU?

Does anyone know of any easy install hardware websites for begginers? Do i need an updated CPU?

Thank you;)

alanwjones

Try this, Hope it helps http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHAe5_FD-3o also you can do a crucial scan to determine what your PC will take
http://www.crucial.com/uk/?gclid=CMLewp3sjpICFQlBMAodwywh7Q
Alan.

scheming_gypsy

how easy is it to install memory.. VERY!

When the lid is on the computer it might seem hard, when the lid is off and you see where the memory is and how it looks you'll realise just how easy it is.

webdude_2

You say that you currently have 256Mb of RAM, and you appear to be suggesting that you want to install 512Mb in the second slot. All memory modules must be the same size on the motherboard i.e. both 256 or both 512 - you can’t mix different sizes. Neither should you mix memory types - make sure you get exactly the same type when you buy the additional piece.

Make sure you observe anti-static procedures when working inside your PC http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=32142

unrich

webdude wrote: »

You say that you currently have 256Mb of RAM, and you appear to be suggesting that you want to install 512Mb in the second slot. All memory modules must be the same size on the motherboard i.e. both 256 or both 512 - you can’t mix different sizes.

Most motherboards DO allow different size modules. You CAN have 256M and 512MB. If you get the scan of your hardware and find out what your motherboard type is you can get online help.

A minority of boards like the same modules and these are often high end dual channel memory ones, servers.

If you find out the motherboard model post here and somebody will tell you, if you can't find out.

GoodRiddance

You CAN add different sized memory modules.

Daz, post the make / model of your motherboard. It should be written on it somewhere

You need to get the right type, speed (mhz), etc. Your motherboard manual will tell you what memory it takes. Post the make and model and me or someone else will look for you and find some that is compatible.

Adding / swapping sticks over is easy

CHR15

@ webdude, I would just delete your post. You are leaving yourself open to flaming due to copletely incorrect advice.

the Anti static part is okay though, but there is no need to go buying wrist straps unless you frequently dive into the machines guts.

weegie.geek

webdude wrote: »

...All memory modules must be the same size on the motherboard...

Perhaps if it was simms he was using, or rimms. Your advice is flawed at best.

OP: You've got 256MB of pc3200 just now, and one slot free. Since dual channel gives negligible benefits I'd just fling 1GB in the other slot, or 512MB if money's tight.

You won't damage anything as long as you make sure you're careful. You're looking at about £30 for a 1GB stick.


Having said that, for £100 you can upgrade that system to dual core with a new motherboard/cpu/ram and it'll fly in comparison. Depends what you do with the machine I guess, but £30 for new ram, or £100 for a very significant upgrade...

Donnie

I have no idea why people are suggesting to run Crucial's ActiveX scan on your computer, nor why they are suggesting you post the make of your Motherboard, when you have clearly indicated what RAM you already have onboard.

So I'll go further and tell you what you need and where to get it;

ATA 512MB DDR PC3200 DDR400 400MHz Memory RAM £14.49 inc postage. This is the more compatible low density memory, so no need to pay more elsewhere.

Adding RAM will not put your CPU at risk. It will serve to allow you to run more programs at once and help Windows to run more efficiently.

If someone knows where to get it cheaper, I'm sure they'll post.

sangupt

Hi

Adding RAM to your motherboard will not damage it or the CPU. 256MB is quite low to run XP but these days memory is very, very cheap. Replacing it also takes less than 5 minutes after opening the box, but you better disconnect all the power supplies and earth yourself (rubber slippers might be all you need) before doing it.

Here's a link to 1 GB RAM for < 10 quid:-)
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/142447

and you can get it cheaper on ebay!.

Make sure you buy only the RAM that is compatible with your motherboard. Get your motherboard's make and model and maybe we can help you further.

Of course you could not spend a penny and make your PC run like a champion, but then you'd have to be willing to experiment with linux. Search for posts with my name for further hints.

Regards

weegie.geek

sangupt wrote: »

Hi

Adding RAM to your motherboard will not damage it or the CPU. 256MB is quite low to run XP but these days memory is very, very cheap. Replacing it also takes less than 5 minutes after opening the box, but you better disconnect all the power supplies and earth yourself (rubber slippers might be all you need) before doing it.

Here's a link to 1 GB RAM for < 10 quid:-)
http://www.ebuyer.com/product/142447

and you can get it cheaper on ebay!.

Make sure you buy only the RAM that is compatible with your motherboard. Get your motherboard's make and model and maybe we can help you further.

Of course you could not spend a penny and make your PC run like a champion, but then you'd have to be willing to experiment with linux. Search for posts with my name for further hints.

Regards

!!!!!! read his post. 2.8ghz celeron, pc3200 ram. Linking to DDR2 is just silly.