Upgrading memory in a Dell 9100

I have a Dell 9100 with 512MB ram installed (2x256MB @ 266MHz). My wife is getting very active with Photoshop and I would like to increase the amount of ram in the machine. I would appreciate any suggestions regarding amount, brand and type of new ram to install to make the computer faster for processing the pictures. Thanks.

 

Hi. Here you go:

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim9100/en/SM/specs.htm#wp1053343

 

It looks like you may be able to go to a max of 1GB of DDR2 RAM depending on your machine.

 

Any recommendations as far as brand of memory is concerned?

 

dell 9100 supports PC2-4200 DDR DIMM of up to 4x1G modules, effectively giving you a maximum capacity of 4 gigs of DDR2 in dual channel configuration!

Some recommendations to look at.... http://www.edgetechcorp.com/memory/upgrade.asp?cid=29709

Regards...

 

My best suggestion is to look at the make and model of the current ram module and then buy the identical same one. In your case, I note that your ram consists of 2x256Mb modules.

Mixing memory brands is never a good idea and I would say that this dictum applies more so to Dell. However, the broader issue is that even if you replace the existing ram modules in favour of new ones ie 2x512Mb, some mobos can be picky as to what ram they 'like'.

In my opinion, upgrading your ram to 1Gb should be more than adequate.

Good Luck

 

I simply wanted to state your systems maximum RAM capabilities, but i too, agree with risk reversal that this would probably be a case of severe overkill.

1gig of DDR2 PC2-4200 will run most programs you care to take on, however if your a serious gamer or video editor, 2gigs will not go astray!

And yes, never mix RAM manufactures and capacities (keep them identical) for optimal performance and compatibilities!

Regards....

 

Depends on your wife's photoshop work, if it's for print, i.e. very large photography, 2gig would be better. I remember I wasted 10 sec - 1 min on every filter I applied on a 6x4 photo on an old iMac. And you can't get a perfect photo with one try.

As for brand & model, Corsair, Crucial, Kingston are good ones. Speed? Something in the middle or lower end.

 

Thanks. the advice is much appreciated.