Memory expansion compatibility

[imactheknife]

I have some memory expansion modules from 145, 170, 180, 180c. Are they compatible with each other? All seem to fit into same slots etc. my 180c just started giving me sad mac chime. Put in different card and works fine.

 

[avadondragon]

Yes they're mostly inter-compatible. The 33MHz PowerBooks use faster RAM but there's a sense line to detect if it has one of the faster modules or not. The machine will add wait states to deal with slower memory. Also there are some funky shaped modules that only physically fit in certain models. I have a one such 10MB module in my 180c.

 

[3lectr1cPPC]

My 170 has an upgrade module that gets it up to the max 8MB, it’s labeled for the 160/180.
Siliconinsider’s ram says it’s not compatible with the color models though.

 

[imactheknife]

My 170 has an upgrade module that gets it up to the max 8MB, it’s labeled for the 160/180.
Siliconinsider’s ram says it’s not compatible with the color models though.

Hmm, interesting! Mine said 160/180 and worked fine. Now it doesnt lol… will try it in a 180 and see? 170 doesnt like it

 

[3lectr1cPPC]

It came to me from eBay with it installed, and I don’t think it came from a collector. I’m sure of it in fact. Stable as can be.