Member Avatar for Violet_82

HI there, I have 2 spare sticks of RAM of 2 gb each that I would like to put in a dell studio 1535. Now the problem is that according to the crucial website this dell laptop takes this memory:

Part Number: CT867777
Module Size: 4GB kit (2GBx2)
Package: 200-pin SODIMM
Feature: DDR2 PC2-6400
Specs: DDR2 PC2-6400 • CL=6 • Unbuffered • NON-ECC • DDR2-800 • 1.8V • 256Meg x 64 •

whereas I have two spares which are slightly different from what it should go in the dell
Part Number: CT2180957
Module Size: 4GB kit (2GBx2)
Package: 204-pin SODIMM
Feature: DDR3 PC3-10600
Specs: DDR3 PC3-10600 • CL=9 • Unbuffered • NON-ECC • DDR3-1333 • 1.5V • 256Meg x 64 •

My question is, is it still ok to do it or do I risk some problem?
thanks

  • 2 Contributors
  • 2 Replies
  • 291 Views
  • 8 Hours Discussion Span
  • Latest Post Latest Post by Violet_82

Dani AI

Generated

Short expert note for (and thanks to for the quick correct call): different memory generations are not interchangeable. Modules for one generation will either not physically fit or, if forced, will not be recognised by the laptop’s memory controller. The result is a machine that won’t boot or unstable behaviour — mixing the two types is not a safe option.

Steps to confirm and proceed safely:

  • Check the Studio 1535 service/spec page or the BIOS/System Information to see which memory generation and maximum capacity the machine accepts. Tools such as CPU-Z (run on the existing system) or reading the label on the installed module will identify the installed type.
  • If the spare sticks are the other generation, keep them for a different machine or sell/trade them; adapters are unreliable and not recommended.
  • For upgrades, use modules that match the laptop’s supported generation, and ideally match each other (same size/speed/timings) for best stability and dual-channel operation.

Safe installation checklist:

  • Power off, unplug and remove the battery.
  • Ground against static (wrist strap or touch metal).
  • Open the memory access cover, seat the SODIMM at the correct angle and snap it down into the retention clips.
  • Reinstall battery/power and check BIOS for total RAM.

Troubleshooting if new RAM is not recognised: reseat modules; try each module in each slot one at a time; update BIOS; run a memory tester from boot media. This keeps the laptop safe and avoids trying incompatible RAM.

Recommended Answers

All 2 Replies

Member Avatar for jbennet

More than slightly different! - You can mix speeds but not types....

DDR2 and DDR3 are totally incompatible, i dont even know if they will fit...

Edited by jbennet because: n/a
Member Avatar for Violet_82

ah ok fair enough thanks for that I won't even try then : - )
cheers

Be a part of the DaniWeb community

We're a friendly, industry-focused community of developers, IT pros, digital marketers, and technology enthusiasts meeting, networking, learning, and sharing knowledge.