Memory help with Inspiron 600m

Question

Hi all! Several months ago my Inspiron 600m started to become extremely slow. The slowdown was most notable during boot-up and during application loading. My system is configured with 128MB of "System Ram" whatever that means and a 256MB SDIMM (both factory install). I suspected memory and purchased some new memory (Patriot DDR 512MB SO-DIMM PC2100 266MHz 200 Pin).

The computer will not work with this memory installed in either slot. I have tried every combination including leaving the old 256MB stick in there, and with it out, and have tried every premuation of memory and slots. Here is what I know:

* Before installing the new memory, I noticed the computer no longer self reports 384MB - it only lists the 256MB (what happened to the "System memory")
* The computer will not boot without the 256MB (factory) stick in slot 1 or 2.
* If the new memory is installed, and powered on, the power light comes on and the CAPS LOCK flashes for a few seconds before everything goes off (the drive is never accessed).

So I have two problems:
1) What happened to the 128MB of sys memory?
2) Why won't the computer boot with the new memory?

I have a couple theories:

a) something is wrong with my MOBO memory controller
b) I bought incompatable memory
c) New memory is defective

I'd appreciate any help that anyone can provide! Thanks!

Scott

Aetas Lupus · Answer

OK, looking over it again, yes, you bought incompatable memory. I would have looked at my manual before even attempting to buy a memory upgrade. If you don't have or can't find the paper copy then look for the pdf file here on the dell site. As far as the 128/256 issue goes, remove the 128 and then you're most likely going to have to get another 256 to top out at 512. Message Edited by Aetas Lupus on 07-31-200608:21 AM

keebler71 · Answer

I don't see how... the memory specs exactly match the manual and the sales rep looked it up in his book as well and verified it was the right type of memory.

From the memory I bought:
DDR 512MB PC2100 SO-DIMM
266MHz 200PIN PATRIOT

From the manual: Exactly the same except it also adds 2.5V (I verified at the patriot website that the memory has that voltage).

What am I missing here?

As for the 128 "Standard Memory". I was under the impression that it is on the MOBO as it isn't in either of the DIMM slots.

Aetas Lupus · Answer

with laptops any and all memory would be in the sodimm slots, it would be on the mobo if it was a desktop.

keebler71 · Answer

well, my laptop used to self-report 384MB - now only 256. I popped it open and sure enough, there is only one 256MB SDIMM. Manual mentions 128MB standard mem - was assuming that was on mobo.

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Memory help with Inspiron 600m

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