What RAM can I install in a Compaq?

Hi , I am new to laptops and new to PC’s so this may be a dumb question.
I just purchased a Compaq Presario Notebook (C554TU) it has two memory slots and 1 stick of 512 installed. I would like to up the RAM by installing another stick of 512. (or even 2x 1GB) But when I went to purchase the RAM (512MB DDR2 667 Sodimm Laptop Ram) I was told that I would have to purchase HP/Compaq Ram specific to my model from HP/Compaq. Is this true or should I go to another Computer dealer? Thanks in advance Tim

 

Ram is ram. You don't have to use a specific manufacturer, you just have to match the specs. Like DDR or DDR2, that works for the computer. I use crucial's memory advisor tool on http://www.crucial.com/. Then once you know what fits and the gb limitation, check the ram deals thread for some good prices.

 

You can buy ram from any company, and it will work. Just make sure that it is the type of ram that your computer will take. You can find out this information by looking at HP's website or talking to their tech support. Alternatively, check out this website.

http://www.corsairmemory.com/configurator/default.aspx

There are also others like this. They will tell you what you need. I recommend checking several of the websites if you decide to use them instead of HP. Once, I had 2 websites that disagreed (told me I needed different types).

 

Thanks for the feedback, I have ordered RAM and look forward to a happier Notebook.