2 new Samsung Wallstreet 256MB memory modules, only showing 128MB each

[mkinn]

Just bought 2 new Samsung 256MB 3.3V PC133 144 pin non-ecc SDRAM SODIMM modules, installed them, and only got 256MB instead of 512MB. Working fine for 2 hours so far. I read something about needing low density memory modules, but I cannot find any. Is there anybody selling these? Anybody want to get rid of some? Need 2, but would buy 4 if available. 2 machines. I wish there was some way to modify the CPU module to use these, but can't find anything on that, either. I'm using a 233Mhz CPU module in a 300 PDQ, waiting on parts to fix the 300Mhz CPU module.

 

[croissantking]

You have a couple of options here:

- find low density 256MB RAM modules with 8 chips on each side (preferred). e.g. Crucial CT32M64S4W7E.16FGYU.

- get 512MB modules, which should be recognised as 256MB each.

 

[Byrd]

The most compatible SDRAM So-DIMM modules for these were the double-height, single sided modules - have a look around for second-hand modules that look the part. It was very common for random brands to not work in the Wallstreet which is known to be quite picky with RAM.

 

[croissantking]

I wish there was some way to modify the CPU module to use these, but can't find anything on that, either.

It’s a hard addressing limit of the memory controller, so no way to get around that.

 

[mkinn]

You have a couple of options here:

- find low density 256MB RAM modules with 8 chips on each side (preferred). e.g. Crucial CT32M64S4W7E.16FGYU.

- get 512MB modules, which should be recognised as 256MB each.

I only paid $8.70 each for mine (new) and can always use them elsewhere. I don't use this machine very often.
I did find two 256 MB modules with 8 IC's each for $50.00. Should work, but not a great deal.
But thanks for your great idea! I'll keep looking for a good deal on two 512 MB modules, which might just work!

 

[Unknown_K]

PC100 is what the Wallstreets used (66 or 83 FSB depending on the model). When I was actively collecting that era of laptops there were deals for low density Crucial 256MB PC100 CL2 DIMMs 8 small chips per side new (basically old stock being blown out) but that was ages ago.

A quick look on eBay shows $30+ a piece for them now. 512MB PC133 with small chips (can't tell if they are double sided or not) are $40+ a pair.

 

[CC_333]

Why is all RAM suddenly so expensive?

c

 

[croissantking]

I did find two 256 MB modules with 8 IC's each for $50.00. Should work, but not a great deal.

Not great, no, since I picked up a couple of compatible ones for around £10 only a few
months ago.

You’ll need 16 ICs on each module i.e. 8 on each side, so those don’t sound compatible.

Why is all RAM suddenly so expensive?

I didn’t realise it was, but it probably has something to do with AI data farms. Still, I don’t see how that would affect vintage RAM!

 

[Unknown_K]

Why is all RAM suddenly so expensive?

c

Nobody is making PC66/100/133 anymore so people are fighting over leftovers especially if they want unused.

I think DDR3 might still be made in Asia.