Dell

[Mithradates]

I was wondering how easy is it to modify a Dell. Are there compatibility problems or does it just depend on the hard ware in the computer. The reason is im thinking of updating my ram is there anything that I should know?

[lars573]

I don't think so. Although cracking open your case may (I repeat may) void your warranty. If you have one. But speaking as someone who is typing this message on a Compaq Presario S5200CL. Your left hand case side (looking at the PC from the front) could be riveted on like mine is (). But other than that you should just have a standard Intel mobo chipset, more than likely a 9 series (915, 945, 955). So no the only problem with ram upgrades would be related to your mobo chipset.

[Beirut]

I've read that some parts in brand name rigs, like Dell, are "welded" together so that upgrades are difficult if not impossible.

[orangat]

I've read that some parts in brand name rigs, like Dell, are "welded" together so that upgrades are difficult if not impossible.

Not actually welded but even if all components are off the shelf parts, the design of the case is usually so small and cramped with proprietary fasteners/clips/screws as to make self upgrades difficult.

[Beirut]

You know, I used quotations marks around the word welded just to avoid a technological kick in the behind from you and...

I'm going back to my cave.

............trudge-trudge-whimper-moan

[lars573]

Not actually welded but even if all components are off the shelf parts, the design of the case is usually so small and cramped with proprietary fasteners/clips/screws as to make self upgrades difficult.

From what I've seen of Dell cases they are much roomier than Compaq.

[orangat]

Yep Dells are ok except probably for the proprietary psu a few years ago which has since changed also. I think Packard Bell or e-machines are very small, cramped and used oddball components which made it hard to upgrade.

[lars573]

These are cramped. I know I've put all of them together. Nearly went blind doing it.

Aopen X-cube. Uses all desktop components is a case 1/4 of the size of a mid tower.

Aopen X-cube mini. Uses a laptop CPU and optical drive. Desktop HDD, and ram.

Aopen Mini-PC. The most bastardly thing ever, you need jewelers srew drivers to work with it. Uses all laptop components, and it's demention are just bigger than the optical drive. It's small enough to carry in the waist band of your pants though.

[Mithradates]

Than you all your help is much appreciated.

[Papewaio]

Dell (and most brands) uses Corsair RAM, pop open your machine and see if there is any free slots for starters. If not you will have to swap them out. As long as you have your system disk you will be fine... if it is on a hidden partition you may have some issues.

[sunsmountain]

One problem is, amongst others, getting drivers to work. Uninstalling the old ones can lead to unwanted side effect. Plus, why upgrade something that's crap to begin with? Installing better memory on a crappy motherboard is not something i would recommend.

[rory_20_uk]

Surely that depends on the Dell. The lower ones are budget city, but the most expensive ones are pretty decent (and of course pricey).

[Gregoshi]

My Dell is a snap to upgrade. The case is easily opened. Installing or replacing new cards and/or drives is very easy - no screws needed for the drives. For memory, you will need to see if you have an open slot. Your Dell owner's manual should have a section on how to upgrade memory and where to find the slots. If you have an open slot it will just be a matter of inserting the new memory in the open slot. If there are no open slots, then you will have to replace one of the memory modules with one of greater capacity. Again, refer to the Dell manual.

As far as what type of memory to get, you can go to a memory module manufacturer and they usually have a configurator utility wherein you tell them your computer's make and model number. Here are two examples:

Kingston
(Dell is already selected as the PC manufacturer in this link)

PNY

I hope this helps Mithradates.

[Geezer57]

Crucial has two utilities on their website ( http://www.crucial.com/ ) - the Crucial Memory Advisor™ Tool, where you answer questions about your system, or (if you don't know those answers) they have their Crucial System Scanner tool.

Corsair also has similar options ( http://www.corsairmemory.com/ ) at their website.

Both companies make first-rate products.

[Mithradates]

Once again grade A advice thnk you all.