Trying to upgrade my RAM...Looking for help

Hello bigmikedmb, The TigerDirect modules probably are not compatible with either the Dell system or the Dell installed memory. It is recommended to install modules of the same brand, type, size and speed, for the system to work optimally. Below is a link to the memory from the Dell site that would work in your system. I checked the Kingston module number and believe it or not the Dell Kingston memory is cheaper than the Kingston memory from Kingston. I would suggest ordering 2X512 MB modules of the same number and leaving the 256 MB module out. The reason for this is that the modules work as a pair, and actually may not improve, and may degrade, the performance with the other module installed.

http://search.dell.com/results.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=gen&cat=prod&k=Inspiron+5150&rpp=12&p=1&subcat=2999%2f4325&rf=all&nk=f&sort=K&ira=False&~srd=False&ipsys=False&advsrch=False&~ck=anav

Are you sure that the RAM that you installed is seated properly?

That is the most common problem when installing RAM modules.

ok well thank you for your help! what a pain!  I am getting a refund from tiger direct.

Now what do you mean its cheapers from Dell. The Kingston that is listed on the page you linked is more then the Dell by about a dollar. Do you think that site is my best choice?

I appreciate all your help in clearing this up.

yes positive.

Have you tried swapping the modules-changing the slots with the 1GB in the first slot?

Is the Centon RAM PC2700 333mhz?

Why did you get that instead of the Crucial or Kingston that they sell?

If you put your old RAM sticks back in, does it boot up?

Buy from www.crucial.com where they gaurantee their memory to work. Do you have the most current BIOS.

I have BIOS version A38

Yes it does boot up with the old RAM.

I tried it in all different slots.

Not sure why I got the cheap RAM...I guess I was talked into it.

It says DDR-333/266  I guess thats the mhz? Says its compatible with both.

Yes it does boot up with the old RAM. I tried it in all different slots. Not sure why I got the cheap RAM...I guess I was talked into it. It says DDR-333/266  I guess thats the mhz? Says its compatible with both.

That pretty much verifies the new memory is not compatible with your Dell system.

Many Dell systems require "special" memory while other Dell systems can use "generic" memory.

All DDR-333/266 memory are not the same. The memory timings are critical to certain systems.

Dell uses this approach to insure their systems have as little memory issues as possible.

Unless you are certain that a Brand of generic memory will work with your system, you should go to a name brand vendor and run their memory configurator and they will guarantee their suggested memory to work on your Dell system.

Hope this helps.

It appears that you do have the wrong RAM module. They both need to be PC2700, 333mhz,  non ECC.

As far as being the same manufacturer goes, it is not that big of deal as long as the modules are matched in specifications.

Dell installed two different manufacturers sticks in the machine that I am using now.

Don't mean ot keep bring this up, but I found what appears to be a Gig of the Kingston RAM I need on newegg. The list can be found here:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010260381%201052907864%201309221120%201309121113&name=1GB

It has this RAM here listed as $26...Will that work for mine. The Inspiron can take 2 Gig right? the $26 one is here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820172109

Again any help is greatly appreciated.

Hello,

Like many have said here, I suggest Crucial memory. It works the first time, costs less, and has a lifetime warranty.

If you like, you can read why Dell computers have problems with RAM upgrades that are not listed for specific model numbers at the memory pages on my web site linked below.

Never under any circumstances purchase VALUE RAM for a Dell Laptop.  The Kingston you mention is VALUE RAM.  While the Desktop Value Ram tends to be okay, the Laptop Value Ram tends not to work in Dell Laptops.  For $28.99 you can get a 1 gig stick of Crucial that will work in your laptop (I'm using a stick in my Inspiron 5160) and has a lifetime warranty and it comes with free shipping.  http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145068

There's a reason that so many people here recommend Crucial ram for Dell Laptops.  I would heed the recommendations.

OK sweet...might as well go with that one. Now should I get 2 GB or just that one? I have 140GB HD...what do you suggest?