m1210 memory upgrade problem -- help!

I'm trying to add memory to our new XPS m1210. Got a pair of 1GB G.Skill sticks to replace the original two Samsung 512KBs.

The problem: Neither of the 1GB sticks will work in the memory slot that's beneath the keyboard. (The computer won't even begin to boot up -- nothing but a black screen.) But each of them works fine in the trap-door slot on the bottom of the computer.

So now I've got an original 512MB beneath the keyboard and a new 1GB in the trap door. Seems faster than before, but I'd really like to use both 1GB's.

Has anyone else run into this situation? Any ideas what's wrong?

The original Samsung memory:
512MB PC2-5300 DDR2-667 Non-ECC Unbuffered CL5 SoDimm

The new stuff:
G.SKILL 1GB 200-Pin DDR2 SO-DIMM DDR2 667 (PC2 5300)

Should I have bought a "2GB kit" instead of two matching 1GB sticks? I wouldn't think that would matter, but there's a lot I don't know.

 

Two modules of 1 GB density should run in the notebook, regardless of whether they are from a dual channel kit, or modules that were bought seperately. The problem may be to do with double and single sided modules. Do the new RAM modules have black memory chips, on both sides of the module?

Some notebooks have a problem, whereby they cannot use one single sided module in conjunction with a double sided one.

 

Yes, the 1GBs are double sided, as are the 512s.

This is so baffling. I've tried all possible combinations with these four sticks. The only time there's a problem is when a 1GB stick is in the beneath-the-keyboard slot. It seems to click into place normally, so I doubt that it's a seating problem.

 

I have heard of this before, It is mentioned somewhere, if I find it I will post the link or the info.

 

Thanks much!

The good thing to come out of this: Just a day ago I was intimidated by the mere thought of removing the keyboard. Now, after doing it half a dozen times, I feel like I could do it blindfolded.

 

weird, i use the exact same sticks in my m1210, no problems since day one

 

Even though I said "I doubt that it's a seating problem," I got to thinking: What else could it be? Given everything I've tried, it's just about GOT TO BE a seating problem.

So, off came the keyboard yet again. This time, I pushed the RAM stick in there extra firmly before clicking it down in place. Voila! Everything works.

In that DIMM A slot, these G.Skill sticks evidently require more elbow grease than the Samsungs. Simple as that -- and I'm sorry to have troubled you all. I just hope this thread will spare someone else a similar struggle.

 

Nice to hear you've got your RAM modules working, joeroyhud. I'm sure that someone else will find the thread informative.