Resolved Installing new memory modules, upgrading graphics card.

What is the correct procedure to instal 2x2Gb memory modules? Checking both sides of the Memory DDR2 module, one side has a manufacturer adhesive label (original installed memory DDR2 modules, have the adhesive labels facing forward). Is it correct to instal new memry DDR2 modules, showing adhesive labels facing front, as in the memory DDR2 modules already installed (though now same manufacturer ie. 2xKingston 2xCrucial).

 

You can only install it one way. You line up the notch on the memory stick with the notch on the memory slot.

 

Crucial DDR2 memory modules have notch at both ends. Notches engage into either side white levers that clips into the module notches. Confusing as there no instruction with module, gold plated segments are in two parts separated by a cut out in centre of module.

 

Yes, you are quite correct, and looking closer find after inserting the modules, that the fixed labels all face the one way - to the front of the computer. Good practise to test installation before replacing the side metal plate of the computer casing.

 

All DDR2 memory modules have the end and middle notches in the exact same place, not just Crucial.

And note those middle notches (or "keys ") are in a different location on DDR3 RAM to ensure they are are not mixed up.

Finally, there is no standard as to which side the RAM makers attach the labels, or if labels are even used at all. There could be heat-shields, or not. Chips on both sides, or not.

 

Mr Bill, your last thread is worth noting. I installed 2x2Gb DDR2 Crucial memory modules in my Compac Presario CQ5115uk computer, however, my first attempt ended with a black screen. Switched off computer and removed each new Crucial module, turning module round and re-inserted, powered up and monitor displayed power up signs. On checking System, showed 8Gb memory as installed. It is possible in my case, to insert modules two ways, but only one way as correct. As the module has a centre notch, in theory module can be inserted as you say with label showing either side of the module. Computer is working satisfactory.

 

It is not possible to insert the modules incorrectly without using excessive force breaking the module, or more likely, the slot.

Really surprising to me is your comment the modules worked after being powered up inserted incorrectly. The modules are typically fried.

Also, the notches are NOT in the exact center purposely just to prevent being inserted the wrong way. This is easily seen here: http://www.deerawan.com/cool-review/computer-memory-ddr2-ddr/. I suspect you are able to insert them backwards because the alignment keys in the slots were previously broken during an improper installation.

 

Take two DDR2's, reverse one, butt them together and note how the notches do not line up.

 

I am very pleased that I purchased 2x2Gb DDR2 Memory Modules, certainly my slowing down computer is now more responsive to keyboard/mouse presses. BBCi no longer requires to load several times during a session. Well worth the money procuring modules from Crucial.

 

Good. I am glad you are happy. Typically (depending on your starting point) adding RAM provides the most bang for your money - by far. Not only does it give your OS and CPU more (and very fast) room to play in, but because of that fact, the OS does not have to bang on the very slow (relatively speaking) hard drive accessing the Page File near as often for data. A very good thing. And if using integrated graphics, depending on your board, some of the new RAM may be stolen... err, I mean "shared" and added to the already "shared" RAM. A good thing (short of a card).

If you currently are using integrated graphics, upgrading to a card (even a relatively budget card) is your next best upgrade for the money. Typically the GPU is more powerful, the card will have its own dedicated RAM tweaked for graphics, and the previously "shared" system RAM will be released back to the OS and CPU - in effect, giving you a little RAM boost in the process. A very good thing.

The downside is graphics solutions are often the most power hungry devices in our systems. So upgrading graphics often requires a bigger quality power supply first.

 

Bill, you mention Graphic Card. HP Presario CQ5115uk appears to use part of the mother board for graphic facilities.

Video card chip card : Intel GMO 3100 256 Mb.
Driver : c:\Windows\System32\drivers\igd15m64.sys
Intel G33/G31
Express Chipset Family 8.15.10.1912. 8.11.2009

Compac appears not to have a separate Video card point on the mother board.

 

I know, but that does not matter. As seen on the motherboard specs page your motherboard has a PCIe x 16 slot (and a PCI slot too) that supports a graphics card. Installing a card disables the on-board (and frees up that shared RAM), and provides a nice, overall performance boost (assuming an adequate power supply is being used).

 

Bill, your suggestions please, what would you advise be a reliable graphics card? I am not a fan of games, rather films on DVD's and a better quality monitor picture. HP Compac Presario CQ5115uk power unit burnt itself out last year and was replaced with a SATA 300W power unit from Maplins.

 

Since you are not a gamer, you don't need to invest a lot of money in a card. And watching movies does not take much in graphics horsepower either. And your 300W supply is a limiting factor too.

That said, generally, the more you can afford, the better the performance, when it comes to graphics solutions. Pretty much any from here will do, but do check their specs page to ensure your PSU is big enough.

 

Bill, thank you for list of available graphics cards, shape appear to have changed from years ago when last I bought one. The only card similar to my last purchase is the EVGA 002 G-P3 Geforce ....... I am not clear on terms Low Profile ready, low profile bracket included. I am not too sure on Wattage size of power unit, except it is much higher than the original CPU fitted in the Compac Presario CQ5115uk computer.

 

Bill, thank you for list of graphic cards available. My local PCWorld, has an AMD Radeon HD6670 PCI-E 2Gb memory priced at £65 ($80). My Compac Presario CQ5115uk CPU burnt out and was replaced with a 750Watt from Maplins. I would appreciate your views.

 

You don't go by shape you go by interface. And yours is PCIe.

Low profile is for slim cases. According to these specs, you have a standard mid tower case, so you can use a full card, or a low profile.

Did you mean the CPU burnt out? Note you said in post #14 it was a 300W Maplin. Which is it?

 

Bill, the PSU did not go up in flames, it just stopped working. Replacement was obtained from Maplins, "750Watt ". After you queried capacity of original PSU, I then checked and found I had made an error with size of old PSU.
PSU at present installed, Compac Presario CQ5115uk is "750Watt" and not as original installed by HP at "300Watt ".

 

A CPU and PSU are two entirely different things.

CPU = Central Processing Unit

PSU = Power Supply Unit