Adding more RAM to an old HP desktop (HP8755C)

I have an HP 8755C desktop (PIII, 800 MHz) with 128MB of RAM. I have added additional RAM before to an IBM laptop (very easy) but have never done it for a desktop. I have opened up the box already though to clean it.


Since it's such an old system, would the shops in Wanchai Computer Center or Windsor House still carry the compatible RAM part? I guess I would like to add another 256MB stick or two 256MB sticks. If I brought the box to the shop, would the staff install it for me?


Thank you.

Hi, if you're planning on doing this stuff yourself, here's a good place to start in term of gathering information about your system and what can and can't be upgraded:

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/product?product=59776&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&lang=en&cc=us


I haven't looked at the documentation in those links, but I'd guess from the vintage that your system uses PC100 or PC133 SDRAM (ie not DDR or DDR2). If this is the case you may need to buy used RAM. The main questions to ask are:

How many RAM slots are there on your motherboard? And;

What is the maximum amount of RAM that your system can support? Once again, I'd guess the maximum to be 256-512MB. And;

Will the system accept ECC RAM? Some systems simply won't boot with ECC RAM.


Anyhoo, check that HP link out, especially any motherboard documentation that might be there. If you find it all too confusing, take it to Wanchai and see if they'll help. There's also the Golden computer centre at Sham Shui Po. If you have no luck there, there's also a used parts & computer centre one or two blocks away from the Golden Computer Centre. They should definitely be able to help you (ask the GCC security guards for directions), but try to source new RAM first for the obvious reasons of warranty support.


Sorry, I've ranted a bit in this response. I hope I haven't confused you. Good luck.