Latitude CPx with a Memory Slot problem.. How feasible is it to repair?

Question

I started having memory troubles with an older CPx that is out of warranty. I did several memory tests with mem86 program and determined that both memory cards were working (128MB PC100 144Pin SODIMM's) but the 2nd memory slot was having trouble. Basically it'll sometimes show the memory in Slot 2, and sometimes not, it's very intermittent and it'll even happen while the computer is running (which causes all kinds of weird issues when Windows loses half it's memory, usually a blue screen). The laptop is never moved, and I've already tried wedging some stuff near the 2nd slot to make sure the chip stays put. My best guess is that it suffered some a static charge or some pins are having issues (they all look okay to me although they are pretty tiny to look at). Does this sound like a problem that is worth fixing for a couple of hundred dollars through Dell and/or getting an independent shop to come take a look at it? Are the memory slots something that are field serviceable or does the entire motherboard need replacement for this type of issue? Thanks much in advance for any advice on the feasibility of this repair. -Crispin

DELL-Donald K · Answer

Lat CPx isn't worth investing money in.   Especially with New Lats starting at $569

leduke30 · Answer

Bad RAM slots are a common occurence on the CPt/CPx boards and require a replacment MB. If you can live with 256mb, get one Module of that size and install it in the good slot. You may be able to find a used board on EBAY for substantially less, but unless you can install it yourself, it is not worth the expenditure for that model

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