Ram upgrade simple help needed

[lodica1967]

Hi all,

I know next to nothing about computers so please keep that in mind.

I have a 600x 500 mghz with 192 of ram.

There was one ram slot open so I ordered another stick that is compatible with this model.

I figured out how to stick it in, I think! You just angle it and pop it into the clips, correct? It seems to be in right but the computer doesn't recognize it.

I tried taking out the old one and putting in the new one and it still says i have 192.

Do I have to do something to the computer to make it rocognize the new stick?

Thanks for your help and patience.

Julia

[rkawakami]

Welcome to the forums at thinkpads.com!

The 600X was designed to take what is called PC100 memory modules. In some cases, PC133 modules will also work. However, there is a "gotcha". You have to use what are commonly called "low density" versions. How do you know what you have is low density? If you are putting in a 128MB module, there should be 8 memory chips on the board (4 per side). If you are installing a 256MB module, there should be 16.

Since you indicated that you have a problem installing the new module and you removed the old one and the laptop still reported 192MB, then I assume you are trying to install a second 128MB module. There is 64MB already "on-board" inside the 600X. So, 64+128=192. You may have a problem with the second slot or you may not have firmly inserted the module. You are correct to say that it angles in and then you press it down until the side clips snap into place. You also have to be sure that the contacts at the edge of the module are inserted all of the way into the socket before you press it down.

To double-check what you have ordered, can you provide any part number or FRU number that is marked on the module? That should help identify it and let us know if it should work. In the meantime, if the new module is now installed and the laptop still reporting 192MB, put the original 128MB into the empty slot and see if you then get a total of 320MB.

And to answer your last question, no, you shouldn't have to do anything to make the laptop recognize the new memory. When it's turned on, the system will go out and check to see what's installed.

You did have the laptop turned off when you tried installing the new module I hope?

(edit: Corrected a couple of typos.. Geezz.. that's what I get for typing so fast and not proffreading (sic) <--- That's a joke, see! )

[lodica1967]

I did have it turned off!

Your assesment is spot on. I did take out the old 128 that I new was working and then I put in the new one. It still shows 192 with the new one in the old slot, so I know the new one works.

I did some research on here before I bought the RAM so I am pretty sure I bought the right one.

I'll try it one more time and see if maybe just wasn't in right?

Thanks for the help!

Julia

[lodica1967]

It works now! Thanks.

A couple of other things. I actuallt bought 2 128 sticks, anyone need one? I only had one slot open.

I took all 20 screws out of the back before I realized where the ram went. I can't get them all back in, will it hurt anything?

Thanks!

[pianowizard]

A couple of other things. I actuallt bought 2 128 sticks, anyone need one?

You can post a for-sale ad on The Marketplace.

[rkawakami]

I took all 20 screws out of the back before I realized where the ram went. I can't get them all back in, will it hurt anything?

To guide you on which screw goes where, the 600X has arrows next to each screw hole that indicates the relative length of screw that goes into that hole. The "->" is the shortest screw, barely 1/4" long, the "-->" about 5/8" long and the ones marked "----->" are 7/8" long.

You should make sure that all of the screws are back in the bottom of the case as some of them secure the motherboard or other important pieces of gear inside the laptop.