Dude...where's my RAM?

A

Annieonline

New Member
Hi everyone, please help,

Ok so I'm trying to upgrade the RAM in the following system:

IBM Netvista A20i
System Model: 627656u
Intel Coppermine Pentium III 800MHz (256KB), 128MB, 20GB IDE HDD, Microtower (3x4), Intel 810e, 12X DVD-ROM, CD-RW, 56K modem,
Windows XP
Maximum Memory 512MB
Standard Memory 64 or 128MB removable
Slots/Banks 2 (2 banks of 1)

On crucial.com it says that my system is compatible with this upgrade:
SDRAM, PC133 • CL=3 • Unbuffered • Non-parity • 133MHz • 3.3V • 32Meg x 64, 168-pin DIMM

So I purchased this:
Azenram 256MB 168-Pin PC133 SDRAM Memory

and when I try installing it into the empty slot, the computer won't boot properly. It goes to the screen prompting for the start-up mode (ie: Normal, Safe Mode, etc...) then if I push Normal, it freezes at the Windows screen, or if I push last know good configuration, it keeps restarting. I read that it might be because of an outdated BIOS so I downloaded the newest version from the IBM site, and it didn't help.

Does anyone know what the problem is, or how I can fix it?
 
your computer does not like the new ram (obviously), maybe it is damaged or the wrong sort for your computer, do you know exacly what type or ram it already has?
 
I'm not sure what you mean by what type of RAM, but it is the original 128MB that came with the computer. How can I find that out?

I also read that some IBM systems automatically have the second DIMM slot disabled and when adding in RAM, I would have to manually go into the settings and enable it, could that be the problem?
 
I haven't tried switching the slots yet but I adjusted the POST to enhanced and when I boot without the new memory the top of the screen says:

DIMM0=No memory
DIMM1=128MB

but when I add the new memory it says:

DIMM0=0
DIMM1=0

So with the new memory installed it stops recognizing the old memory too. Should I switch the slots? Do you think that would help?
 
Annieonline said:
Azenram 256MB 168-Pin PC133 SDRAM Memory
Click to expand...

this is the type of ram you bought 168-pin PC133 SDRAM, do you know what the ram already in your system is, it should be the same if it's gonna work properly!
 
Have you tried switching slots? That worked for me when I was having detection problems with PC100/133.
 
Well, I tried switching slots, I also tried putting just the new 256 into the first slot...nothing. There must be some compatibility issue that I'm missing, so I'm going to return it and ask the tech guy if he knows what the problem is.
 
That's a possibility!! I don't know if this means anything but the original 128MB RAM is about an inch taller then the 256MB RAM. Does that matter?
 
have you tried booting with just this stick of ram in the slot were your old stick is. Remove old stick and try this. May help narrow down you problems.
 
jjsevdt said:
You should probably take the computer in with you so they may see the problem
Click to expand...

Would it help if I took in all the specs plus the 128MB RAM card? I'd hate to bring in the computer because then they'll try to convince me to pay them for the tech help.
 
I just phoned the tech guy, and he said that the Azenram brand of
RAM has compatibility problems with some systems, so I should exchange it for the Kingston brand. I'll try it and see what happens.

I appreciate everyone's help on this forum, and I'll be sure to update the computer status once I get the exchange.
 
where's your ram dude?
lol im sorry i dont have any helpful advice i just couldnt resist saying that
Click to expand...
true to form. Lets not let your post count cloud your judgement. Lets stay on topic.

Would it help if I took in all the specs plus the 128MB RAM card? I'd hate to bring in the computer because then they'll try to convince me to pay them for the tech help.
Click to expand...
agreed just replace the ram with some new ram, dont bother taking in the pc. If you have problems with the next stick then is the time to seak out more help.

Keep us informed of future problems
 
I thought I'd add in this little tip from the tech guy for anyone who doesn't know; he said to wrap the 128MB card in tinfoil for transporting, because it could damage the motherboard when I go to put it back in if I just carried it with no protection.
 
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