Dimension 4300 Memory Upgrade

Question

Hi,

I own a Dimension 4300.
1.5 ghz
512 Mb Ram

I am wondering if it is possible to upgrade to 1gb. I have searched around and there seems to be different information. Some say that It is possible to upgrade but the computer will only recognize 512. Others say it is fine.

Thanks

ja

jkander · Answer

xp pro. so if i have two slots what would my best bet be. could i use 1 1gb strip and keep one of my 256 in? or 2 512's? thanks

jkander · Answer

also, im dont know all too much about memory. I know its SDRAM but do i need low or high density and whats the difference? just want to make sure before I make the purchase, thanks again.

NS_MaNiAc · Answer

What Operating System are you using? Windows 98 only supports 512mb while WindowsXP can support 4 GB

NS_MaNiAc · Answer

Wow, your system may only support  512mb... To be honest I think it's a waste of money to upgrade your memory. It's not even using DDR. Check www.newegg.com if your really hard up for cash. You can probably snag a new cpu, motherboard, memory (512 DDR) case and 350 watt powersupply for around $200... still though you will need a video card most likely, if your 4300 has one you can use that as well as all your CD drives and FDD, and your HDD. If you do this though you have to back up all your information and format the drive and reinstall everything. Norton makes a program called 'Ghost' which will capture an image of your drive so you can reload the stuff onto another system. But I don't know how well that will work in your case.... Are you gaming off that tower?   Might want to skip that whole process and just save up and buy a new Dell. It sure is easier but it sure is alot more money. There's really a million ways to go man.

NS_MaNiAc · Answer

Not sure i'll have to check your system specs. Im pretty sure your motherboards max is 1GB or 2GB though...

Denny Denham · Answer

jkander, According to the Memory section here 512MB is the maximum RAM supported by the 4300, although each of the two memory connectors has a 512MB capacity.

100mph · Answer

Unless you are a hardcore gamer (UT, HL, Q, etc.) or doing a lot of video/audio/large image editing, 512MB of RAM should be sufficient.

On the other hand, if you are into any of these processor-intense activities, extra 512 MB of memory will not give your current system a sufficient performance boots. :(

Good Luck!

jkander · Answer

Hey thanks for quick response all. First off i'd say im quite the avid gamer. As of now im on a WOW stint. I was hoping it was possible for that extra little bump. Guess 512 will have to do for now.

I am familiar with Ghost, I have used it at a College i previously worked at for setting up classrooms. I have the resources for a new motherboard, probably, though im in the dust with that whole process too. You say 200$ i could get a new setup? I have been thinking about it.

100mph · Answer

The following link will help you to find a good hardware (forums, reviews) for a good price (scans, stores, etc.):
http://www.fixyourwindows.com/shopping.htm

Also, check Dell PowerEdge SC1420 and Dell PowerEdge SC420.
(very nice bare metal with no junk).

Hope this helps!

jkander · Answer

thats np, got it right here

Denny Denham · Answer

jkander, If you elect to get a new motherboard remember to factor in the cost of a new copy of Windows XP which will not install on a system with a non-Dell BIOS.

NS_MaNiAc · Answer

You sure about that Denny ?? He has WindowsXP I was pretty sure Dell always gave you a full OEM copy of WindowsXP and not a Restore CD (Like eMachines).

Denny Denham · Answer

@NS_MaNiAc wrote:
You sure about that Denny ?? He has WindowsXP I was pretty sure Dell always gave you a full OEM copy of WindowsXP and not a Restore CD (Like eMachines).

Correct. Dell gives you a full OEM copy of Windows which can be installed only on a system with a Dell BIOS.

NS_MaNiAc · Answer

Just curious because I had  a Gateway awhile ago and I was able to use that disk with another system after that P0S died.

Windows General

Dimension 4300 Memory Upgrade

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