8600 Inspiron Port Replicator/Docking Station

Question

To anyone interested in responding.    If this is an old inquiry then I apologize.  However, I bought my daughter an 8600 for college and also a Port Replicator (DP/N 02T219) at the same time.  Up until now the Port Replicator has never been used.  Now that she is being relocated there is a need for this accessory.  First, let me ask this question, is a Port Replicator and a Docking Station the same?  I have recently read where these devices, if they are the same, has been presenting significant problems to the 8600 when used.  Is this correct?  Other than heat issues this notebook, a little on the heavy side for a female, has been reliable.  I wouldn't want to introduce anything damaging like a Port Replicator to her notebook if it can be avoided.   The next item I would like to address is memory upgrade.  Since I do not have the unit in front of me, I need to know in advance if the access door to the memory slots are on the bottom of the unit or is access under the keyboard?        Thanks

ejn63 · Answer

Port replicators are effectively limited-function docking stations.  They work just fine.   Both memory modules are under a door at the bottom of the system.

Eddy65 · Answer

Thank you for your quick response. However, one question and answer always leads to another.

Since access to the memory modules are easy enough, I would like to upgrade this area of her 8600 Inspiron Notebook before she leaves. I am reasonably sure that she has (2) 256MB modules installed. Should I remove (1) 256MB module and install (1) 1024 MB module? Or, should I upgrade to 2GB of memory? Since she uses her system for the internet, music downloads, images, email, word processing, and other educational needs in the medical profession what would be the right mix or amount of memory needed. The operating system is XP Home Edition. Next, are there brand preferences, and area's to stay away from? Crucial says I am to use, DDR PC2700 * CL=2.5 * Unbuffered * Non-ECC * DDR 333 * 2.5V * 128 Meg x 64. There are some less expensive modules on eBay but I don't know enough to pickout the correct memory for her Dell. Maybe you could offer some suggest or guidelines to use when selecting memory?

Thanks again

malik999 · Answer

FWIW - If it was me i would buy 2Gb and buy it from crucial for the peace of mind.

Eddy65 · Answer

Thanks for your response.  I went with 2GB Micron.

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