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.

 

[CC_333]

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!

Indeed! It makes sense that prices for the newest RAM are being blown into outer space, but it would make no sense whatever for AI farms to demand vintage RAM! Especially as old as PC66/100/133!

@Unknown_K's assessment makes more sense.

c