A memory upgrade is usually a good, cheap and easy 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 Toshiba NB255 and NB250 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 Toshiba NB255 and NB250’s memory.
Purchase the right memory.
Intel Atom N455 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 Toshiba NB255 and NB250 you need a standard 200 pin DDR2 SODIMM laptop memory module (not desktop memory). While the processor can use DDR3, the specific motherboard of the NB255 and NB250 can not. It only has a single DDR2 memory slot and A DDR3 SODIMM will not fit into DDR2 or DDR memory sockets. Select a 2GB SODIMM memory module of 800MHz or 667MHz. These may be referenced as PC2-5400 or PC2-6400. Recommended brands include, but are not limited to, Crucial, Corsair, Kingston, Patriot, Hynix and Viking. You can compare prices and specs here:
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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 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.
Note: From time to time, Windows will display a pop-up that says, “Do you want to allow the following program to make changes to this computer?” This is a security feature to prevent programs or people from doing things on your computer without your permission. If you were trying to perform the action, click Continue; otherwise, click Cancel. If unsure, cancel and try again.
1. Shut down the computer completely.
2. Power off your NB255 and NB250 if it’s on. Also, unplug the AC power adapter.
3. Prepare your netbook 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 is secured in a dedicated compartment. Remove the Memory compartment cover.
a. Use an Electronics Repair Screwdriver Set
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to remove the screw that secures the compartment cover.
b. Remove the compartment cover.
8. Press outwards on the latches on both edges of the socket at the same time, remove the SODIMM; The memory module pops up slightly. Gently lift the memory module to a 30-degree angle and slide it out of the slot. 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. It’s impossible to put the memory module in backwards thanks to the notches which “key” it with the slot. Position the module toward the socket, aligning the connector’s notch with the matching key in the socket. This is important; you want to stick in the new memory module at a 30 degree angle. Firmly press the memory module into the memory slot’s socket. The module should be seated so that you don’t see any of the gold contacts.
11. Once the module’s connector is fully inserted into the socket, press downward on the top edge of the module to seat the module into the latches at the sides of the socket. These latches should “snap” into place securely with the corresponding cutouts in the side of the module. Make sure that it is firmly fixed in the slot and does not move easily. If the memory does not fit easily or if the latches and cutouts do not line up correctly, repeat step 8 and 10, take it out and try again.
12. Before you close your case, replace the battery. When the battery pack is inserted, it will automatically lock.
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 startup screens or in the properties for “My Computer”. Right click on the “My computer” icon and select “properties”. ”. The screen which appears should show approximately 2GB of RAM (usually 1.99GB). 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.
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.
16. Close the Hard Disk Drive/Memory compartment cover.
Enjoy!
