Laptop memory query

[mesarectifier]

I've been offered (another) Apple PowerBook 12" at a very reasonable price. Only issue is that it has 512mb of RAM. I'm looking to upgrade it to the maximum 1.256gb (as on my current PowerBook), but I don't know which memory is 'okay' as mine was factory fitted.

I've found this: http://www.dabs.com/productview.asp...ationKey=11150,43190000,4294960195,4294957152 which is a 'Brand Name' SO-DIMM so it should be okay, right?

An official Apple reseller stocks only Kingston memory, but that's quite expensive (£100+) so I was wondering, will cheaper 'brand name' memory work and would even 'generic' memory work?

Thanks very much for all your help in advance

 

[mesarectifier]

Your computer comes with 512 megabytes (MB) of Double Data Rate (DDR) Synchronous Dynamic Random-Access Memory (SDRAM), with 256 MB of memory installed on the logic board and 256 MB of memory installed in the memory slot. The memory slot can accept an
SDRAM module that meets the following specifications:

- Double Data Rate Small Outline Dual Inline Memory Module (DDR SO-DIMM) format
- 1.25 inch or smaller
- 256 MB, 512 MB, or 1 gigabyte (GB)
- 200-pin
- PC2700 DDR 333 Type RAM

Just found that in the Apple PDF manual, so I guess that answers my question about 95%, I just need to know how I can find out the size of the memory modules.

 

[mesarectifier]

Right, I've solved that problem as well. I've found a PC2700 DDR333 200pin 1gb SO-DIMM that's less than 1.25 inches.

I guess now I just need to know, is there anything other than size of DIMM/speed/pin count that can affect what memory you need to use? I only ask because there is so much memory out there which is, for example, specific to a certain model of Toshiba Satellite Pro or something, so I just want to make sure. Any other input on that?

 

[mesarectifier]

Ritey, thankyou wusy for another excellent slice of help

 

[kamel5547]

Brand specific memory is a rip-off. Basically it is the standard memory the manufacturer produces that undergoes a specific certification process approved by Vendor X (say HP). Thanks to the certification process the memory usually runs double market price from what I have seen.

Example:
Kingston Charges $206 for 1GB DDR2 533 SoDIMM HP branded
The non HP branded part is $124
or a savings of $82 for the same performance.

Personally I just buy PC's with a low memory config and upgrade them myself ( I.E. I buy a laptop and separetly I buy DDR2 memory modules which I add to or switch with the existing memory, usually saves $50-$200 depending on the amount I am adding, for about 60 seconds of work).