i want to upgrade my memory?

Question

My compaq laptop has 512 memory with vista. i want to upgrade and according to the crucial.com scan i need DDR2 PC2-4100. I can't find any for sale. can i use DDR2 PC2-4200 instead?

Answer 1

You need 4200

Answer 2

The 4200 memory module will be a faster memory module. If you get the 4200 and match it in the laptop with the 4100 (if that is currently what’s in your system) the 4200 will slow down to match the slower module.

I do recommend however you inspect you laptop first to make sure you have an available memory slot. In the past people have purchase a 512 stick to go from the original 512 to 1024 only to find that instead of having a 512 in the machine they got stuck with two 256 modules.

So the numbers don't confuse you:
Laptop may only have two memory slots and read a total of 512 memory. Both slots can be in use by two 256 (256 + 256 = 512) modules or one 512 module. If the prior is the case then just purchasing a 512 stick will not get you the 1024 you need because to free up a slot you will have to remove one of the older modules (256 + 256 = 512 - 256 + 512 = 768 still short).

if you do not have an extra slot ready to accept additional memory then you need to just get yourself a 1024 stick and that will resolve your issue. As for your motherboard supporting 4200 most main boards that don't will clock the memory speed down to a level it will work at (in your case possibly 4100).

Below is a 1gb module at my favorite online shop.
http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-2373921-10440897?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.newegg.com%2FProduct%2FProduct.asp%3FItem%3DN82E16820144183%26ATT%3D20-144-183%26CMP%3DAFC-C8Junction&cjsku=N82E16820144183

Answer 3

Well it all depends on whether or not your motherboard supports 4200. Find that out then go for it.

Answer 4

It will work. it will match the speed of the other memory sticks. Good luck. If did not work simply return it .

Answer 5

It may or may not work . . .