[B Gallagher]

Hello all,

I bought a gig of RAM from Crucial about two weeks ago, and it just arrived today.

I have a 15" 1.67GHz PB which supports DDR2 RAM.

The crucial ram (link) says that it's fully compatible with my PB (see attached image).



I've just taken apart the PB, and tried to install the RAM three times. Each time I've pushed the RAM in on a 45-ish degree angle as far as it seems it will go, then pushed it down until it's lying flat.

However, when I start up my PB, it won't recognise the new RAM. It's still only showing up the original 512MB which came with the machine.



Any suggestions on what to do to get the new Crucial RAM to work? Thanks!

[B Gallagher]

Update: I've swapped over the two RAM modules, so that now the 1GB stick is in slot 0, and the 512MB stick is in slot 1. It's now recognising the RAM in slot 0, but still not the RAM in slot 1. Anyone got any ideas? Thank you!!

[JKT]

You are suffering from a failed RAM slot which is a relatively common occurrence for some models of Powerbook - you need to get it fixed by Apple.

See here for more info: About the PowerBook G4 (15-inch 1.67/1.5GHz) Memory Slot Repair Extension Program

[JKT]

Note, even if your PB serial no. doesn't' fall within the range specified I would really push Apple to fix it for free as it is very obviously the same fault.

[B Gallagher]

Thanks for the prompt reply! I guess I'll give the local Apple store here a ring on Monday when they open. There's no harm in leaving the 512 RAM in slot number 1 for the time being, is there?

On a more positive note, the new RAM from Crucial is working fantastically!

Will keep you posted on how I get on.

[B Gallagher]

Just a thought - has anyone else had success with getting Apple to repair the failed RAM slot, even though their PB isn't in the serial range for the program?

Thanks.

[D3k61]

My 15" Powerbook had a ram slot go bad as well... Apple told me that my laptop isn't within the serial number range they will fix for free. They did agree that it's the exact same problem that the Powerbooks they are fixing has, but essentially I'm out of luck.

They estimated it would cost approximately $1100~1200 to fix. I decided to pass and gave the Powerbook to my wife.

I now have a 17" MBP and quite like it but am not happy about how I was treated.

[B Gallagher]

Talked to someone on the phone - they said, and I quote "your serial number and the fault sounds right for that program." Looks like I'm in luck!!

Will take it down tomorrow morning, and will keep you posted! Thanks!!!