z63a internal component questions

Hey guys,
This post could just as well go in the "aftermarket components" forum, but I'm hoping someone with this specific system can give me some help.

I'm getting ready to pick up an Asus z63a, and I have a couple of questions regarding the components. I'm on a tight budget, so I'm trying to scrimp anywhere I can.
One place that this looks possible is on the memory. It looks like the notebook takes DDR2 memory, and 2x512 of this from the reseller runs about $120.
I can pick up a 1GB stick of DDR2 from NewEgg for $80, or two 512s for $50 each. My question is: is there any downside to going with the 1GB stick? It will leave more room for expansion later, right?
I plan on running linux on this machine, so 1 GB of memory might be overkill anyhow.
Here are the links to the memory I'm looking at:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820145593
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16820145554

My second question is about the HDD. I can pick up a SATA Hitachi drive from The Egg for $90 ( http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16822146049)
I just wanted to check and make sure that this drive would be compatible with this system. I'm having a hard time verifying the HDD interface, and I'm also worried about the physical fit of the drive

Thanks for the help!

 

Yes you can add the memory yourself if you want. As for the SATA HD- you can't, since it's a PATA connection.

 

PATA? Is that the same as an ATA-6?

Also, to reinforce my initial post: What is the benefit of 2x512 MB vs 1x1 GB?

 

Not much benefit - although it technically will be in "dual channel"... the real-world benefits of dual channel are negligible. If you can, stick with 1x1GB.

 

Thanks Aurora, that's what I was thinking. I have a 1 GB dual-channel kit in my gaming rig, but I think that for an office notebook running Linux, it's not going to do much for me.

Any input on the HDD interface?

 

I agree. I went with 2x512, and now I wish I had gone 1 stick of 1 gig. It would have been cheaper and upgradeable. However, I do have dual channel!!! My mouse pointer can move crazy-fast!

Sorry I can't help w/ the HD. But yes, it is PATA you need...