Dv6 6123cl Memory Configuration

[mikeyp1464]

Have a Dv6 6123cl with Windows 7 64 bit.  I would like to boost the ram memory a bit. This computer has a 4 and a 2 gb chip in the two available slots totaling 6 gb as configured out of the factory. I admit to be a bit confused because I thought mixed chips was a strict no-no.  Guess not?  Hence I have a few questions since I do not need or want to pay to upgrade it to the full 16 gb set/kit and wonder if 8 gb if going to make any noticeable difference. I don't game but do use Indesign a lot and often have 3-4 very large programs open in use at the same time. 

1- do I have only the single option of going up to 8 gb? (if not the 16)

2- if I go to 8 gb can I keep the 4 gb chip in it and just buy and add a 4 with the same speed and rating or do I need to replace both with an 8gb kit?

3- If I wanted to be really creative - could I keep the 4 and add an 8 making for 12 - a bit much but a good compromise?

In other words, HP seems to have mixed and matched in a way I am not used to. Can I do it - or is there some strict proprietary thing about the Dv6 I need to know about? Thanks.

MikeyP

[Paul_Tikkanen · Accepted solution]

Hi, Mikey:

Below is the link to the service manual for your notebook.

http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c02842252.pdf

I believe the product specs page for your notebook is wrong.

According to chapter 1, page 6, notebooks with AMD processors such as yours, can only take a max of 2 x 4 GB of memory.  It is some of the Intel based DV6's covered under this manual that can take 16 GB of memory.

So, I wouldn't take a chance that a 8 GB module will work.

Now, to answer some of your other concerns:

1. Yes you can mix memory but it won't run in DDR mode.

So, now that we have discovered that your notebook can only take 8 GB of memory, the decision for you now becomes much easier...

Purchase a 4 GB module and now you get 8 GB and DDR mode.

You should notice a little improvement.

Cost of a compatible 4 GB chip is well worth it.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231341

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820145283

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820139190

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820148492

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820220476

Paul

[mikeyp1464]

Thank you so much Paul. That information is tremdously helpful.

Mike P.

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome, Mike.