Compatible RAM Upgrade for Z60t

[Replytoken]

Hi everybody,

While I have followed the forums here since before I bought my Z60t (2511HAU) last year, I have finally decided to join. I need some good advice. I plan on upgrading the RAM in my machine from 1GB (2x512MB) to 2GB (2x1GB). Unfortunately, Lenovo has been out of 1GB RAM for this machine for some time, and my local computer store is also out of the specified RAM.

So, I have spent some time researching RAM requirements, perhaps more than I care for. I know that the machine is supposed to take DDR2 PC2-4200 533MHz SODIMMs with a CAS-4 latency. And I know that the price on these "sticks" varies widely ($20 - $100+).

Now, to my question. I happened to be at Office Depot today and they had a reasonable price on memory they thought might work on my machine. The memory is from Kingston's Value RAM, but the chips are from Qimonda, a brand that few people object to. The modules, KVR667D2S0/1GR, are listed as PC2-5300 533/667 MHz. The interesting thing is that the memory matching programs for Best Buy and Circuit City list this memory as compatible with the Z60t, stating that it will run at 533MHz in a 4200 slot.

When I called Kingston, who by the way had great technical support on the phone, the technician stated that this module has a CAS-5 latency (4200 memory has a CAS-4 latency), and that while the module may work, he suggested an alternate product that had been specifically tested with the Z60t.

Will the memory that I picked up work in the Z60t? Will the latency difference cause me any problems? Is it a less than optimal solution? I would like to buy my memory locally if possible in case I have problems, but it has not been easy trying to find what I need at a reasonable price. Any information or advice would be greatly appreciated.

Also, and most important, are there any tips to removing the palmrest without breaking any parts? I watched the IBM video several times, but they do not give any hints for unhooking the palmrest. I am not the most handy of people (although I am detail oriented), so I want to proceed with caution, and hopefully with minimal hassle.

Thanks,

--Ken

[Harryc]

The thing with RAM compatibility is that you just have to try it yourself to see what happens...unless you can find someone who has tried that exact RAM in that exact machine (not likely). Traditionally, Kingston Value RAM is not a brand that is widely regarded as being Thinkpad friendly. If it does not work, here is my recommendation -

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.a ... 6820145097

[Replytoken]

Thanks for the recommendation. Any advice on removing the palm rest without breaking it?

[Harryc]

Download the z60T maint manual and follow the steps. It's just a few screws, not much chance of breaking it. Just be careful with removing the cable underneath it. Once unscrewed, lift the palm rest up slowly and look for the cable.

http://www-307.ibm.com/pc/support/site. ... 61365.html