M17xR4 RAM Upgrade 8-->16 with different brand?

Hi,
I have a M17xR4 which I use for games as well as work. i do a bunch of virtualized stuff in Windows 8.x Hyper-V that is now forcing me into a RAM upgrade. I want to go from my current 8GB to 16GB.

I have a few questions on that:

1. The system currently has 2 x Samsung DDR3 PC3-12800* in Slots 1 & 3. Can I get any DDR3 PC3-12800 4GB x 2 DIMMS and plug them into Slots 2 & 4? Will this work?

2. If so, I'm looking at buying this one: Amazon.in: Buy Crucial Ballistix Sport 8GB Kit (4GBx2) DDR3 1600 MT/s (PC3-12800) CL9 @1.5V UDIMM 240-Pin Memory BLS2CP4G3D1609DS1S00 Online at Low Prices in India | Crucial Reviews & Ratings. Is this a good one to get?

3. How hard is it to access these slots on the R4? these slots are beneath the keyboard or something on the R4, right?

4. Bonus question Can I put 2 x 8GB into Slots 2 & 4 if they're also PC3-12800 and get 20GB RAM? For instance, this one: http://www.amazon.in/Crucial-Ballis...TF8&qid=1405577166&sr=1-12&keywords=ddr3+1600

* Screenshot from CPU-Z of RAM

 

The amazon links are memory for desktop computers. They wont fit your laptop.


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Just buy 2x 4GB DDR3 PC3-12800 and make sure they are sodimm.

I always try and keep RAM balanced, they you know you are running true dual channel. e.g. your 2x 4GB + new 2x 4GB = 16GB dual channel. Otherwise you will end up with asynchronous dual channel memory mix up module sizes, which is not preferable.

If you need more than 16GB for some reason, I would suggest replacing all the same brand and model of 4x 8GB DDR3 PC3-12800 sodimm. You could go with higher speeds but really not necessary.

Keyboard easy to get to. 2 screws on the back remove main back plate. There are a few screws holding the keyboard on, once these are out then keyboard slide back and out, put in modules. Search for R4 service manual for the real guide.

 

Thanks guys. I'll stick to 16GB and find the Laptop versions of these sticks.

 

Brand doesn't necessarily matter, just as long as the type is the same speed grade and timing, usually runs without an issue unless some rare circumstances.

 

hey guys, I got a 2x2gb on my r3 (the ones that came by default - made by Hynix, I think and runs at 1333MHz, no idea 'bout the timings, though) now I want to upgrade with a pair of 4gb sticks, will these work? and how should I place them? currently, the pair of 2gb are placed on the slots underneath.. so if I am going to add the 2x4gb, should I place them both on the slots underneath the keyboard?? will this "12gb" setup work? also, my brother asks if he can have one of my 2gb, so will a 10gb even work? how should I set it up?? quite a noob on how these ram modules work, or rather assymetrically work.. so thanks guys in advance..

 

It's better to match them all, in that case you would need to buy 4x 4GB sticks.