I have a PC-FXA49, and sony says that it can only handle 512MB RAM. Has anyone installed 1GB, and if not is it possible anyway? What would be the major issue? It says that it uses PC133 CL3 144-pin Low Profile SODIMM, they come in 128, 256 and 512 varieties. Would my motherboard really not be able to handle 1GB? Also I want to put a larger HD in, 30 GB is tiny, now. I found a 120GB that will work, but the computers never came with one that big.

raphenry

Hi. Very good question.

The only way to upgrade your memory capabilities on that motherboard is to flash the BIOS. If a BIOS upgrade for your motherboard is not available, then you cannot upgrade.

By the way, is your model PCG-FXA49 (below, you have it listed as "PC-FXA49") This is very important. I checked Sony for your model (Sony eSupport - PCG-FXA49) and didn't see any BIOS updates that will resolve the issues you need. Under the "Sort By Type" look for BIOS. However, check them again (two sets of eyes are better than one). There, you may also find other driver updates that are needed.

Are you are familiar with flashing the BIOS? In the BIOS upgrade description, it usually states what revisions have been made (for example, to increase memory, or hard drive size compatibility). You can go to the Sony website and look for your PC's support > software/drivers. Usually they will have a list of the newest BIOS upgrades available, for your machine. You need YOUR machine, and not anything else. This is very important.

A word of caution. When checking for motherboard BIOS upgrades, compare the model very closely with yours and those listed on the website. You need an EXACT match for your PC to the ones listed.

Here are a few things to look for, and avoid

• The BIOS must be an exact match, for your motherboard (PC make & model).
• You cannot flash a BIOS that belongs to another motherboard.
• Follow the BIOS installion instructions EXACTLY. Don't try and use shortcuts, or methods not described in the instructions.
• Understand the risk of flashing a BIOS, with the wrong BIOS.

There may be other issues if you install Windows XP with SP-1/SP-2 on this laptop. See the link I've provided.

Hope this has been helpful.

I flashed the Bios YEARS ago, but dont know what upgrade it was, can i tell if i go into the bios?

raphenry

Yes, usually at the top of the screen (depending upon your BIOS type) it will show your BIOS version. Enter BIOS during startup and look for it. Also, in Windows, your system info may display it (but not sure about this, I'm currently using Linux).

For Windows I use SiSoftware SANDRA for my system configuration and details/benchmarking. It shows it there.