A computer memory upgrade is often the best way of increasing overall computer performance, and upgrading netbook memory is often one of the easiest computer upgrades. Do you want to get a little more power out of your Samsung N230 Pine Trail Netbook? Upgrade that 1GB memory module with a 2GB SODIMM. It will speed up opening new applications, running multiple applications at once, and switching between software applications (multi-tasking). Here’s a complete and easy guide on how to upgrade your Samsung N230’s memory.
Purchase the right memory.
Intel Atom N450 (Pineview) based machines can’t access more than 2GB of RAM in total. 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. For your Samsung N230 Netbook you need a standard 200 pin DDR2 SODIMM laptop memory module (not desktop memory). Select a 2GB DDR2 SODIMM memory module of 800MHz or 667MHz. These may be referenced as PC2-6400 or PC2-5300. The 800MHz stick will work, but it won’t make a difference in speed as it’s just throttled down to the motherboard bus speed of 667MHz. Samsung usually recommends an 800MHz SODIMM however. Recommended brands include, but are not limited to, Crucial, Corsair and Kingston.
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- 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 the computer completely.
2. Power off your Little Sammy if it’s on. Also, unplug the AC power adapter.
3. Prepare your Samsung N230 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. The spring battery lock keeps the battery pack secure. When removing the battery pack, this spring lock must be retained in the unlocked position.
5. Discharge residual power by pressing the power button.
6. Be sure to ground yourself. Touch a piece of grounded metal, like a tap or a large piece of metal for a couple of seconds and you should be fine.
7. The memory stick is secured in a dedicated compartment at the bottom side of your netbook.
a. Remove the screw that secures the compartment cover using an Electronics Repair Screwdriver Set
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b. Remove the compartment cover.
8. Press outwards on the latches on both edges of the socket at the same time, remove the SODIMM; it should pop right out. 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. Push the memory module down so that it is completely fixed and the metal retaining clips clasp into the grooves on either side of the module. If the memory does not fit easily, push the memory module down while pulling the memory module latches outward.
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. The module should be seated so that you don’t see any of the gold contacts.
12. Before you close your case, replace the battery. The manual battery lock is used to keep the battery pack secured. Move the manual lock to the unlocked position to insert or remove the battery pack. Move the manual lock to the locked position after inserting the battery.
Test it.
13. 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”.
The screen which appears should show approximately 2GB of RAM. The memory capacity reported in Windows might be less than the actual capacity of memory. This is because BIOS or the onboard graphics uses a portion of memory or claims it for further use.
You can also hold <F2> during the POST. When the booting screen (SAMSUNG logo) appears, press the <F2> key to enter the BIOS Setup. The BIOS Setup Utility screen will open and the System Memory item shows the total amount of memory installed in your netbook.
14. If everything works correctly, you are done and you can reinstall the memory compartment cover. If you have any problems, go to step 15 for troubleshooting tips.
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.
Enjoy!
