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erockerboy

macrumors member
Original poster
Jul 25, 2002
92
0
SEA, WA, US
I am thinking about picking up a used 12" PowerBook for use while travelling, and had a few questions re: memory upgrades.

How difficult is it to install additional RAM on one of these machines? Can I do it myself or should I have a tech do it?

What's the best place to buy notebook RAM?

Thanks in advance for any advice.
 

WildCowboy

Administrator/Editor
Staff member
Jan 20, 2005
18,490
2,991
It's very simple to do...here is a PDF showing how to do it for 12" G4 PowerBooks.

PPC Macs can be picky about RAM, so it's good to go with a reputable vendor who guarantees compatibility and stands behind their products. Avoid generic PC RAM in these machines. Two of the more popular vendors around here are OWC and DMS.
 

CEAbiscuit

macrumors 6502a
Jun 28, 2006
534
0
The Kitchen
ifixit

You may already be aware, but I keep this link bookmarked:

iFixit

Always a good reference when upgrading. Is also helpful pre-purchase if you are thinking about upgrading anything yourself. Lets you know what you are getting into ahad of time.
 

erockerboy

macrumors member
Original poster
Jul 25, 2002
92
0
SEA, WA, US
One more quick question before I pull the trigger.....

Is there any reason to pay more for "name brand" RAM? (E.g., $180 for the Samsung branded memory vs. $140 for OWC's house brand?)
 

YS2003

macrumors 68020
Dec 24, 2004
2,138
0
Finally I have arrived.....
erockerboy said:
One more quick question before I pull the trigger.....

Is there any reason to pay more for "name brand" RAM? (E.g., $180 for the Samsung branded memory vs. $140 for OWC's house brand?)
As many other posters said on this forum in the simiar threads on Ram, I recommend buying Rams from the vendors who gaurantee the compatiblity and offer the life long warranty. I think OWC, Crucial and others. I would rather spend extra few dollars to get the good quality Ram for my machines.
When I upgraded my iBook's ram, I think I opted for Samsung Ram from OWC.
 
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