[SOLVED] RAM upgrade: 2x512mb or 1x1gb?

[snowpine]

Hi there, a very simple question. I want to upgrade a friend's laptop from 512mb to 1gb of ram (the maximum). I am pretty sure it is currently 2x256mb. Is there any reason to choose 2x512mb over 1x1gb? It seems to be slightly cheaper to buy 1x1gb than 2x512, but I want to make sure than only using one socket won't hurt the computer.

The laptop is a Dell Inspiron 5100 that uses PC-2100 DDR SDRAM.

Thanks!

[phidia]

There are some memory sellers online that can check your system and tell you the ram type and max amount you can use. I did that and for your system it looks like you are correct 1GB is Max so do what's cheapest. (sometimes the maximum might change but that's only if the motherboard will recognized a larger max& a larger ram stick is released)

[snowpine]

There are some memory sellers online that can check your system and tell you the ram type and max amount you can use. I did that and for your system it looks like you are correct 1GB is Max so do what's cheapest. (sometimes the maximum might change but that's only if the motherboard will recognized a larger max& a larger ram stick is released)

Thank you... I will go with the cheaper 1gb option and keep one slot free.

[empty_spaces]

According to the crucial.com Memory Tool Advisor, I think your laptop supports a maximum of 512MB per slot, so buying a 1GB stick will not work.

[snowpine]

According to the crucial.com Memory Tool Advisor, I think your laptop supports a maximum of 512MB per slot, so buying a 1GB stick will not work.

Guess I should just play it safe and get the 2x512.....

[empty_spaces]

It would be the safer option.
You can always call up the Dell helpdesk or research in the Dell forums to see if someone has managed to get a 1GB stick to work for your model.