Solution given on 10-5-18 regarding RAM upgrade on 14Q-cs0009tu

[SonnyArora]

I got a hand me down notebook recently n want to upgrade its RAM

It also has Intel(R) Core(TM) i3-7020U CPU @ 2.30GHz 2.30 GHz, but the warranty is over

Specific Queries are :-

a) Does the 7th gen run the memory at 2133 mhz by default, or coz the fitted one is  2400mhz

b) Can it be upgraded to 3200 mhz for better performance as warranty is not there, BUT the risk of real damage due to processors limitations is ? Pl clarify

c) U said 2x8=16gigs is sufficient for most computing, so without wasting the 4 already there can I pair one 8/16 along with, without any compatibility issues, as both slots will have different size as well as speed.

d) If not what'll be the best combo, including the choice of discarding the old 4 gigs

e) If the answer to (c) is yes ,I have Crucial CT8G4SFRA32A in mind for 8 gigs. Ur advice is most welcome for this or 16 gigs

[Huffer · Accepted solution]

Here is the Service Manual:

Manual 

On 7th gen Intel Core processors, the motherboard is set up to run the RAM at -2133 speed. You can install -2400 or even -3200 but it runs at -2133 speed and that cannot be changed. Yes, you can mix an 8 and 4 gig module. Again, they will run at -2133 regardless of the nominal speed of the module. You will not have dual channel anyway so it would be OK to mix say a -2133 and a -2400 module. 

That Crucial you ask about is -3200 speed and you would be better off with -2400 speed. The more the module has to downclock the less reliable it is and the bigger chance it will just not work. 

Max is 32 gigs by the way or a pair of 16 gb modules but I agree with whoever said 16 gb is enough for almost all users. 

Post back with any more questions and please accept as solution if this is the info you needed. 

[SonnyArora]

That's the advantage of asking an expert

Thank you very much