I recently purchased a DELL 9 Mini with the maximum specs running Windows XP as my vacation/couch PC. So far I am very happy with it but as with any geek I want to find a way to push its performance higher.
Memory Upgrade
The most obvious upgrade to this machine is a memory upgrade and is the simplest to do. After doing some research I determined that the following memory module (ordered from Crucial) should do the trick: 2GB, 200-pin SODIMM, DDR2 PC2-5300 memory module (Part #CT25664AC667).
I quickly ordered the memory for $33.99 + shipping and waited for it to arrive. And waited. Oh and I waited some more! My long wait was all thanks to UPS “Innovations” which ships using UPS to USPS locally facility which makes the final delivery. (yes im pissed, but whatever)
Finally the memory arrived and I quickly popped the two screws holding the panel on the bottom which revealed the one memory slot. I removed the existing 1 gig and installed the new SODIMM. The machine booted without issue and now shows 1.99 gigs of Ram inside of Windows XP.
Did I get the correct Ram?
Now that I have removed the existing DIMM I wonder, did I get the best RAM upgrade? Sure my new RAM boots but based on the sticker which is on the original 1gig DIMM (1GIG 2Rx16 PC – 6400S – 6666 – 12) I am starting to think I should have installed the OCZ 2GB 200-Pin DDR2 SO-DIMM DDR2 800 (PC2 6400) Laptop Memory – Retail upgrade instead. Something to consider if you are doing this yourself…
Conclusion: Performance?
I bet you are wondering, has this improved my performance? I don't know yet, I don't have anything installed to judge this scientifically and will need more time to give you my impressions. For about $35 bucks though its worth the risk in my opinion so give it a try yourself.
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