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10295
May 4th, 2008 18:00
Inpsiron 4150 memory read/write failure upon startup
Hi,
I've a 5yr old laptop, which used to work absolutely fine. About a month back, it started giving a startup error "Memory write/read failure... Decreasing available memory...". I obviously tried reseating the RAM modules without luck. I also tried identifying whehter a particular RAM stick is faulty by trying out combinations. However, at the end of it, there was no conclusion as to whether a particular stick is bad. Hence, I thought of replacing the RAM. I got 2x(Crucial 512MB PC2700 333MHz 200-pin SODIMM DDR) modules. Unfortunately, even after inserting these properly the error sustains. I tried the diagnostic and all tests pass successfully.
I'm not sure whether this is a bad motherboard. My system is out of warranty. What's the most practical way of resolving this as I know that the laptop is good otherwise?
Thanks
ejn63
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87.5K Posts
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May 4th, 2008 20:00
It's a bad memory socket, which means a new board. Assuming you're otherwise happy with the system, you can buy a replacement board for about $150 from parts-people.com.
tekie2000
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May 5th, 2008 17:00
I checked on ebay it's available for approx. $80 + shipping. Had a few Qs, perhaps based on your experience you can suggest
- Is it worth buying motherboard? I noticed there are similar or better configuration laptops available for the same price on ebay.
- The laptop had an integrated WiFi card. Is that typically on motherboard or an add-on?
Thanks in advance for your advice.
ejn63
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87.5K Posts
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May 5th, 2008 22:00
Only you can answer the repair/replace question. I would be VERY hesitant buying a used notebook or board on EBay - if you do, get a guarantee that it won't come with a password.
WiFi is a mini-PCI card, not integrated onto the board.