Question : Problem: Exceed max RAM for Sony VAIO notebook? (384MB)

This Sony VAIO model (PCG-R505GL) may still have a lot of life if I can cram more memory into it.  I noticed on another forum (Am*z*n), a reviewer said:
"2) Maximum memory is listed at 384 MB. There are currently two 128 MB chips in with only one of them being user accessible. I put in a 512MB crucial chip and it worked fine (so far.. knock on wood). Not sure why Sony lists this limit if it works this way, but 384 max is just way too low (for the memory hog that Windows XP is). "
Another reviewer said:
"I plan on putting in a 512MB 144-pin 133MHz SoDIMM based on other reviewers' suggestions. That will bring the system up to 640MB. I read Intel's 830MG chipset documentation and it does look like it is supported."

I sure would like to have 640MB RAM which would give me a few more years of life for this slim portable notebook.  But before I plunk down about $81 for 512MB Crucial memory from that vendor for this computer, would anyone offer any comments on this?

rlah

Answer : Problem: Exceed max RAM for Sony VAIO notebook? (384MB)

Crucial's selector is USUALLY (but not always) correct ... and it shows a maximum memory for that system of "384MB or 512MB" => since there's only one user-accessible slot, I presume the difference depends on what the "other" slot is populated with (128MB or 256MB).

The ONLY "compatible" module Crucial offers is a 256MB module [http://www.crucial.com/store/listparts.aspx?model=VAIO%20PCG-R505G%20Series# ] -- which, in your case, would (as you know) bring you up to a total of 384MB.  That's all Crucial will "guarantee" -- since their selector does not show a 512MB module as compatible.

However, they have a good return policy, so if you want to purchase a 512MB module and give it a try, you can return it with no problem within 30 days [and you'll know within 30 minutes of receiving it if it's recognized :-) ]  => so the worst case is it would cost you a few $ to try it.