Category: Memory Upgrade Tutorials

A memory upgrade is often the best and easiest way of increasing the performance of a Netbook and the cost to upgrade the RAM actually amounts to a relatively trivial amount of cash.  The HP Mini 5101 Netbook has 1 RAM slot and supports up to 2GB of RAM. The netbook ships with either 1GB (XP) or 2GB (Vista). The 1GB Models can be upgraded to 2GB; the 2GB models however can NOT be upgraded, due to hardware limitations. Upgrading a 10.1-inch HP Mini 5101 Netbook is very easy, even when you’ve never done something like this before. It will only take a couple of minutes. Upping the RAM will speed up opening new applications, running multiple applications at once, and switching between software applications (multi-tasking). Here’s a complete guide on how to upgrade your HP Mini 5101 Netbook’s memory.

Purchase the right memory. For your HP Mini 5101 Netbook you need a standard 200 pin DDR2 SODIMM laptop memory module (not desktop memory). Select a 2GB DDR2 SODIMM memory module of 800 MHz or 667MHz. These may be referenced as PC2-6400 or PC2-5400. HP recommends an 800MHz module and a faster module is backwards compatible, so an 800 MHz SODIMM will definitely work, even when the original one is a 667MHz or 533MHz module. All memory modules operate at the maximum system supported speed of 533 MHz. Recommended brands include, but are not limited to, Crucial, Corsair, Kingston, Patriot, and Viking.

(#ad or paid links)

• Crucial 2GB Single DDR2 667MHz (PC2-5300) CL5 SODIMM 200-Pin Notebook Memory Module CT25664AC667
  This is by far the most popular Netbook memory replacement at the moment.
• Crucial 2GB Single DDR2 800MHz (PC2-6400) CL6 SODIMM 200-Pin Notebook Memory Module CT25664AC800
• Corsair VS2GSDS667D2 2GB (1x2GB) DDR2 667 MHz (PC2 5300) Laptop Memory

A 1GB memory module is installed in the memory slot at the bottom of your computer. There is, however, only one memory slot on the motherboard so this means that you’ll have to remove the current RAM module in order to insert a new one. The procedure to replace the memory is described below.

1. Shut down your Netbook completely.

2. Disconnect all external devices connected to your HP Mini 5101.

3. Power off your Mini 5101 if it’s on. Also, unplug the AC power adapter.

4. Prepare your Mini 5101 by placing it upside-down on a flat surface with some form of soft padding. Static electricity can damage your module and other computer parts. Make sure that you are working in a static-safe environment. Remove any plastic bags or papers from your work space.

5. Remove the battery. This will prevent you from accidentally shorting anything on the system board during this process.
a) Slide the battery release latches (1) to release the battery.
b) Remove the battery (2) from the computer.



6. Discharge residual power by pressing the power button.

7. If your device has WWAN capability, remove the SIM.
a) Press in on the SIM (1). The module is partially ejected from the SIM slot.
b) Remove the SIM (2) from the SIM slot.



8. Be sure to ground yourself. Touch a grounded piece of metal (like a tap) for a couple of seconds and you should be fine.

9.
a) Slide the battery latch again (1), and the memory module compartment cover pops open.
b) Remove the memory module compartment cover (2).



10.
a) Pull away the retention clips (1) on each side of the memory module. The memory module tilts up.
b) Grasp the edge of the memory module (2), and gently pull the module out of the memory module slot at an angle.



11. Most memory will be sold in a piece of hard, clear plastic. Gently remove the new module from the packaging by pressing on it from the plastic side. Avoid bending the module or applying too much force to the packaging. When you remove the SODIMM memory module from its packaging hold it by the edges, try not to touch the gold colored contacts as this can damage the memory.

12. Insert a new memory module:
a) Align the notched edge (1) of the memory module with the tab in the memory module slot.
b) With the memory module at a 45-degree angle from the surface of the memory module
compartment, press the module (2) into the memory module slot until it is seated.
c) Gently press the memory module (3) down, applying pressure to the left and right edges of
the memory module, until the retention clips snap into place. Make sure the memory module is completely fixed. If the memory does not fit easily, push the memory module down while puling the memory module latches outward. The module should be seated so that you don’t see any of the gold contacts.



13. Insert the tabs of the memory module compartment cover (1) into the notches of the compartment. Press the cover down until it snaps into place (2).



14. Insert your 3G SIM card if you have one.

15. Test it. To install the battery again, slide the battery into the system. Turn your computer back on. The BIOS automatically detects the amount of memory in the system and configures CMOS accordingly during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) process. There is no hardware or software (including BIOS) setup required after the memory is installed. You should see the new amount of memory displayed on your start-up screens or in the properties for “My Computer”. You can also Hold F10 during start-up. The BIOS Setup Utility screen will open and the System Memory item shows the total amount of memory installed in your netbook. If you have any problems, go to step 16 for troubleshooting tips.

16. Troubleshooting. If you have trouble with your new RAM, check these things first. Check the power cords. Is everything plugged in properly? Check the module. Did both side clips snap to hold the module firmly in place? Try removing the module and replacing it to make sure it is seated properly in the slot. If you’re still having difficulties with your RAM, check the Crucial FAQ section. You may find an easy solution for your problem.

Enjoy!

A computer memory upgrade is often the best value for increasing overall computer performance. Do you want some more power out of your MSI Wind U123 Netbook? Replace that 1GB memory module with a 2GB SODIMM. The MSI Wind U123 has no memory bay door, however it’s quite easy to replace the original SODIMM. It will speed up opening new applications, running multiple applications at once, and switching between software applications (multi-tasking). Here’s a complete guide on how to upgrade your MSI Wind U123s memory.

First, you have to select the right memory replacement. A 200-pin 1GB DDR2 533 MHz SODIMM is already installed in a slot. The user can upgrade the memory by replacing the 1GB module with a 2GB PC4200 533MHz module. A PC2-5300 667MHz is the most popular netbook memory upgrade at the moment and a faster module is backwards compatible, so a 667MHz SODIM will work too.

(#ad or paid links)

• Crucial 2GB Single DDR2 667MHz (PC2-5300) CL5 SODIMM 200-Pin Notebook Memory Module CT25664AC667
  This is by far the most popular Netbook memory replacement at the moment.
• Corsair VS2GSDS667D2 2GB (1x2GB) DDR2 667 MHz (PC2 5300) Laptop Memory

Now follow the general steps below and the steps explained in the detailed instructional video below:

1. Shut down the computer completely.

2. Power off your MSI Wind U123 if it’s on. Also, unplug the AC power adapter.

3. Prepare your MSI Wind U123 by placing it upside-down on a flat surface with some form of soft padding. Static electricity can damage your module and other computer parts. Make sure that you are working in a static-safe environment. Remove any plastic bags or papers from your work space.

4. Remove the battery. This will prevent you from accidentally shorting anything on the system board during this process.

5. Discharge residual power by pressing the power button.

6. Be sure to ground yourself. Touch something metal (like a tap), for a couple of seconds and you should be fine.

7. Remove the bottom half of the chassis. The bottom half is quite easily removable after unscrewing 10 or so screws. There’s a “void if tampered with” warranty sticker on top of one screw. You can remove that sticker; MSI Tech support has confirmed that the warranty will not be voided if the memory is upgraded.

8. You can find the original SODIMM at the front/right side of the computer (see video). Press outwards on the latches on both edges of the socket at the same time, remove the SODIMM. Be sure to save the old SODIMM for future use.

9. Most memory will be sold in a piece of hard, clear plastic. Gently remove the new module from the packaging by pressing on it from the plastic side. Avoid bending the module or applying too much force to the packaging. When you remove the SODIMM memory module from its packaging hold it by the edges, try not to touch the gold colored contacts as this can damage the memory.

10. Turn the module so the teeth are facing the SODIMM slot and the sticker is face down. It’s impossible to put the memory module in backwards thanks to the notches which “key” it with the slot. Insert the notched end of the SODIMM into the socket. This is important; you want to stick in the new memory module at a 45 degree angle. Press the SODIMM firmly, and pivot it until it snaps into place and the metal retaining clips clasp into the grooves on either side of the module.

11. Make sure that it is firmly fixed in the slot and does not move easily. If the memory does not fit easily, take it out and try again.

12. Put everything back together. Snap the bottom of the chassis back into place. Getting the bottom back on might be more difficult than taking it off. Take your time, don’t force anything

13. Test it. Turn your computer back on. The BIOS automatically detects the amount of memory in the system and configures CMOS accordingly during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) process. There is no hardware or software (including BIOS) setup required after the memory is installed. You should see the new amount of memory displayed on your start-up screens or in the properties for “My Computer”.

14. Troubleshooting. If you have trouble with your new RAM, check these things first. Check the power cords. Is everything plugged in properly? Check the module. Try removing the module and replacing it to make sure it is seated properly in the slot. If you’re still having difficulties with your RAM, check the Crucial FAQ section. You may find an easy solution for your problem.

MSI Wind U123 Memory (RAM) Upgrade Instructional Video

Enjoy!

A computer memory upgrade is often the best way of increasing overall computer performance. Do you want some more power out of your MSI Wind U100 Netbook? Add more memory to your netbook. The MSI Wind U100 has no memory bay door, but it’s quite easy to put an extra SODIMM module into this netbook. It will speed up opening new applications, running multiple applications at once, and switching between software applications (multi-tasking). Here’s a complete guide on how to upgrade your MSI Wind U100s memory.

First, you have to select the right memory module. For your Wind U100 you need a standard 200 pin DDR2 SODIMM laptop memory module (not desktop memory). The system cannot accommodate more than 2GB in total and it has already 1GB (or 512MB) soldered onto the motherboard. The user can upgrade the memory by putting a 1GB PC2-4200 533MHz or 1GB PC2-5300 667MHz SODIMM into the free slot. The PC2-5300 667MHz SODIMM is the most popular netbook memory upgrade and a faster module is backwards compatible, so a 667MHz SODIM will definitely work. Recommended brands include, but are not limited to, Crucial, Corsair, Kingston, Patriot, and Viking.

(#ad or paid links)

• Crucial 2GB Single DDR2 667MHz (PC2-5300) CL5 SODIMM 200-Pin Notebook Memory Module CT25664AC667
  This is by far the most popular Netbook memory replacement at the moment.
• Corsair VS2GSDS667D2 2GB (1x2GB) DDR2 667 MHz (PC2 5300) Laptop Memory

Now follow the steps below and the steps explained in the detailed instructional video at the bottom of this article:

1. Shut down the computer completely.

2. Power off your MSI Wind U100 if it’s on. Also, unplug the AC power adapter.

3. Prepare your MSI Wind U100 by placing it upside-down on a flat surface with some form of soft padding. Static electricity can damage your module and other computer parts. Make sure that you are working in a static-safe environment. Remove any plastic bags or papers from your work space.

4. Remove the battery. This will prevent you from accidentally shorting anything on the system board during this process.

5. Discharge residual power by pressing the power button.

6. Be sure to ground yourself. Touch something metal, like a tap, for a couple of seconds and you should be fine.

7. The bottom half is quite easily removable after unscrewing 9 screws. There’s a “void if tampered with” warranty sticker on top of one screw. You can remove that sticker; MSI Tech support has confirmed that the warranty will not be voided if the memory is upgraded. There’s no need to remove them. As long as they are completely unscrewed, you can leave them sitting in the plastic

8. Remove the back panel of the chassis. When pulling the back panel; you start from the right hand site (the site where the USB ports are). You should hear some light pops as each corner unsnaps from the base.

9. Locate the free memory slot. You can find the RAM slot next to the ventilator. The slot might be covered with a piece of black tape. In that case, you’ll need to lift the tape.

10. Most memory will be sold in a piece of hard, clear plastic. Gently remove the new module from the packaging by pressing on it from the plastic side. Avoid bending the module or applying too much force to the packaging. When you remove the SODIMM memory module from its packaging hold it by the edges, try not to touch the gold colored contacts as this can damage the memory.

11. Turn the module so the teeth are facing the SODIMM slot and the sticker is face down. It’s impossible to put the memory module in backwards thanks to the notches which “key” it with the slot. Insert the notched end of the SODIMM into the socket. This is important; you want to stick in the new memory module at a 45 degree angle. Press the SODIMM firmly, and pivot it until it snaps into place and the metal retaining clips clasp into the grooves on either side of the module.

12. Make sure that it is firmly fixed in the slot and does not move easily. If the memory does not fit easily, take it out and try again.

13. Put the cover back on. Snap the bottom of the chassis back into place. Getting the bottom back on might be more difficult than taking it off. Take your time, don’t force anything, and make sure all of the ports stick through the holes properly. Start at the left hand site (where the audio jacks and VGA port are), then go to the right site, push and snap the cover into place. Tighten all screws, without too much force.

14. Test it. Before you close your case, replace the battery. When the battery pack is inserted, it will automatically lock. Turn your computer back on. The BIOS automatically detects the amount of memory in the system and configures CMOS accordingly during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) process. There is no hardware or software (including BIOS) setup required after the memory is installed. You should see the new amount of memory displayed on your start-up screens or in the properties for “My Computer”. Note that the system will say it has 1.99GB rather than 2GB of RAM.

15. Troubleshooting. If you have trouble with your new RAM, check these things first. Check the power cords. Is everything plugged in properly? Check the module. Try removing the module and replacing it to make sure it is seated properly in the slot. If you’re still having difficulties with your RAM, check the Crucial FAQ section. You may find an easy solution for your problem.

Good luck!

Do you want to get a little more out of your Lenovo Ideapad? Upgrade that 512 MB or 1GB memory module with a 2GB module. Here’s a complete and easy guide on how to upgrade the memory inside your Ideapad S9/S10.

Purchase the right memory.
Lenovo’s IdeaPad S10 netbook is easy to upgrade. The S10 has 512MB soldered onto the motherboard and only one SODIMM slot. If your S10 comes with more than 512MB preinstalled, than there’s already a SODIMM in the slot and you will have to remove it first. The motherboard also cannot recognize more than 2GB in total, including the built-in 512 MB. A 2 GB DIMM will give you 2 GB, not 2.5 GB, because the last 512 MB will be ignored.

For your Lenovo S9/S10 you need a standard 200 pin DDR2 SODIMM laptop memory module (not desktop memory). Select a 2GB DDR2 SODIMM memory module of 667MHz (or 533MHz). These may be referenced as PC-5300 (or PC-4200). A SODIMM, or small outline dual in-line memory module, is a smaller alternative to a DIMM, being roughly half the size of regular DIMMs. SODIMMS are often used in systems which have space restrictions such as notebooks and netbooks. Recommended brands include, but are not limited to, Crucial, Corsair, Kingston, Patriot, and Viking.

(#ad or paid links)

• Crucial 2GB Single DDR2 667MHz (PC2-5300) CL5 SODIMM 200-Pin Notebook Memory Module CT25664AC667
  This is by far the most popular Netbook memory replacement at the moment.
• Corsair VS2GSDS667D2 2GB (1x2GB) DDR2 667 MHz (PC2 5300) Laptop Memory

The procedure to replace the memory is described below.

1. Shut down the computer completely.

2. Power off your Ideapad if it’s on. Also, unplug the AC power adapter.

3. Prepare your Ideapad by placing it upside-down on a flat surface with some form of soft padding. Static electricity can damage your module and other computer parts. Make sure that you are working in a static-safe environment. Remove any plastic bags or papers from your work space.

4. Remove the battery. This will prevent you from accidentally shorting anything on the system board during this process.

5. Discharge residual power by pressing the power button.

6. Be sure to ground yourself. Touch something metal for a couple of seconds and you should be fine.

7. Open Hard Disk Drive/Memory compartment cover at the bottom.

8. Remove original DIMM.

9. Most memory will be sold in a piece of hard, clear plastic. Gently remove the new module from the packaging by pressing on it from the plastic side. Avoid bending the module or applying too much force to the packaging. When you remove the SODIMM memory module from its packaging hold it by the edges, try not to touch the gold colored contacts as this can damage the memory.

10. Insert a new memory module into the memory slot. Insert the notched end of the DIMM into the socket. Press the DIMM firmly, and pivot it until it snaps into the place.

11. Make sure that it is firmly fixed in the slot and does not move easily. If the memory does not fit easily, take it out and try again.

12. Test it. Before you close your case, turn your computer back on. The BIOS automatically detects the amount of memory in the system and configures CMOS accordingly during the Power-On Self-Test (POST) process. There is no hardware or
software (including BIOS) setup required after the memory is installed. You should see the new amount of memory displayed on your startup screens or in the properties for “My Computer”.

13. If everything works correctly, you are done and you can close your case. If you have any problems, go to step 14 for troubleshooting tips.

14. Troubleshooting. If you have trouble with your new RAM, check these things first. Check the power cords. Is everything plugged in properly? Check the module. Try removing the module and replacing it to make sure it is seated properly in the slot. If you’re still having difficulties with your RAM, check the Crucial FAQ section. You may find an easy solution for your problem.

15. Close the Hard Disk Drive/Memory compartment cover.

Enjoy!