RAM problem with laptop

[amcluesent]

Need some advice on a RAM upgrade for a Compaq laptop. It already had a 256Mb SODIMM (100/CL2 speed rating), so I tried to add another 256Mb but using a 133/CL3 speed device. It didn't boot :( Took new memory out and all was OK again.

I thought a faster spec. RAM would always be OK as it's being 'underclocked'! Am I wrong, or is the RAM stick perhaps faulty?

[Kuddy]

I thought the 133 could go into 100 fine as well. Is it to do with the slower latency on the 133? Is your BIOS set to 2 for the latency and can you increase it to 3?

[Method0ne]

It's always been my experience that different forms of memory dont like to play together all too nicely.

Trying to match up pc100/133 memory always was a pain in the arse, and it looks like it's still the case for you at least.. Doubtful the ram is faulty, but you could test the new stick on a slot on its own, which should tell you one way or the other. Or you could just return it for a swap to something that will match your current setup (that is, if it's store-bought).

Also worth possibly testing, is if the new stick works fine solo, in the primary slot, try sticking the other alongside it in the other slot, possible it may work that way, doubtful, but I've seen stranger behaviour from computers in the past, so worth a check even if it is to no avail.

[Draven]

compaq's like many laptop manufacturers can be very picky and fussy about what RAM they will accept

best bet is to check on www.crucial.com/uk go through the memory selector and that will tell you the specs of ram that has been shown to work on said laptop

[SR20DET]

Yes, or try www.kingston.com theyve got a memory finder aswell.

Daniel