Inspiron 1520 memory update

For best results you should install the same module in both memory slots, thus maintaining dual channel capability for fastest performance.  Many forum "regulars" recommend memory upgrades from Crucial, with specifics for your model here:

http://crucial.com/store/listparts.aspx?model=Inspiron%201520

Memory is super cheap these days, so going with 2 X 1 GB or even 2 X 2 GB is an inexpensive upgrade.  Installations instructions are here:

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins1520/en/sm/memory.htm#wp1180190

Correct, neither XP nor Vista 32 bit recognizes the full 4 GB, but typically about 3.25GB.  But with memory as cheap as it is these days and if you run a bunch of memory intensive applications, then go for the full 2 X 2 GB, although that is certainly overkill for most casual users.

Thanks a lot for your reply europa303.

I started thinking of maximizing the memory to 2x2 but 32 bit Vista does not support 4 GB I suppose. At least Crucial says possibly it's not gonna recognize.

Is there any way of utilizing 4 GB without updating Windows to 64 bit? Since it goes out of warranty if I change the OS.

If this is Value Ram beginning with the part number KVR I prefer to avoid it as KVR memory is not guaranteed compatible by Kingston.  Their KTD line of modules is, as is the memory at Crucial.  Not saying it won't work, but there are many thousands of posts on this and other forums about problems with Value Ram in Dells.  As long as you have a good return policy then you can give the Kingston a try.

Thank you so much. I got all the answers for all the questions in my mind :)

The memory I'll buy is this : 2 X Kingston 2 GB 800 MHz DDR2 Notebook RAM CL6

Do you think it is all right?

Yes, it is KVR. But I couldn't find any of KTD, since I have to buy it from Turkey. I'm still looking though.

The Vista UPGRADE SP1 will correctly display the memory in the machine.

Do you think it's possible to have those KTDs in Turkey with another name? As I couldn't find any seller. Crucial is sending via free shipping, I'm not really into it, as some of my friends couldn't get what they've ordered before from some websites sending the product from the US.

I just purchased 2   2 gig memory chips to upgrade the 2  1 gig chips in my 1520.  I wish i could sell my two 1 gig chips as i have no use for them.  There are only 2 slots in the 1520 and you must replace the chips in pairs.

 just purchased 2   2 gig memory chips to upgrade the 2  1 gig chips in my 1520.  I wish i could sell my two 1 gig chips as i have no use for them.  There are only 2 slots in the 1520 and you must replace the chips in pairs.

I wish I could buy your 2x1 GB RAMs but I think it becomes more and more expensive to send them than I pay for the RAMs to you, as I am in Turkey. :)

Thanks anyway.

Vista withthe SP1 update will recognize and show all 4 gigs of ram... i just did it the other day