Sony Vaio with RAM modules problem

I have a Sony Vaio PCG GRS700, P4M

No warranty anymore so Sony service out of question (the price just to check it is almost 100US here in Hong Kong, not talking about the parts!).

Originally, it had 256Mb of RAM and, after a visit to Sony Dealer for maintenance and some upgrade; it was upgrade to 512Mb…2 modules of 256Mb.

After a while, the notebook stoped recognizing the 512Mb, only showing 256Mb of RAM available.
Both modules are working and both slots are working (it was checked more than 1 time) but it doesn’t recongnize both at the same time (512Mb). A Sony technician told me usually Vaios have this kind of problems with “age”…and it is related with the motherboard…so it needs to be replaced…
The problem is…the motherboard alone is very pricey… better buy a new notebook…

Since is not that important, because I have two more notebooks (not Sony thanks God!), im not really rellying on this one anymore. Anyhow, i would like to know if anyone knows where I can find second hand parts (motherboard) for this Vaio Model.

 

You can be sure that it's the VAIO's fault if you throw the RAM chip in one of your two other laptops and it works. I would check that out just to be sure that it IS the Sony that is the problem here, b/c the techy's explanation sounded like a load of bull to me. After all, Sony would love if you bought another motherboard from them.

 

Thks...

I did that already and also had the modules checked by a friend who use to work to Sony. The modules are both ok. According to the former Sony technician the problem is with the slots on the motherboard (according to him a usual problem with Vaio models after some intensive use).

But since the price for new motherboard is too expensive and not worth it... i would like to know if anyone knows where to find second hand ones...

Otherwise is no use to fix the notebook...

Thks...
JG

 

^^ I used to have a GRX650 way back when....

Try this:
On the inside of the RAM slot cover (the piece of the case that you have to remove to get to the RAM)...try putting something between the cover and the RAM modules themselves. The goal is to push the RAM down towards the mobo. This fixed my issue when I upgraded the RAM in my machine. After a while mine stopped registering too...and occasionally I would get a blue screen because the RAM would come loose.

Anyway...give that a shot...I used some rubber feet (for some appliance) that I had extras of laying around.

good luck!