want to upgrade ram

[Sweiner13]

. i have two slots and the hp page says 4g ddr3system memory (1dimm)..  I purchased ram on line and the bios read the memory but I could not get windows 7 to start up. I returned it and want to make sure i get the correct ram now.  The max is 8 GB.  Can I install one slot of 8GB as I only have one slot of 4GB currently? How do I know which ram is the best very complicated descriptions.

[old_geekster · Accepted solution]

@Sweiner13 , welcome to the forum.

According to the Maintenance and Service Guide you will have to install 2x4 GB:  http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c02834058

This information is on Page 54.  The maximum memory is 8 GB.  I suggest that you use CPU-Z to find the manufacturer and timings of the current memory: https://download.cnet.com/CPU-Z/3000-2086_4-10050423.html

This information is in the tab titled "SPD".

Here is the memory that is recommended by Crucial Memory:  https://www.crucial.com/compatible-upgrade-for/hP---Compaq/pavilion-g7-1150us

Crucial makes very good memory for OEM laptops.  If they recommend their product it is guaranteed to work.

If you need more information about their products you can contact their Tech Support.  They will be able to tell you if your current memory will be compatible with theirs or if you will have to replace it, as well.

Please click the Thumbs up + button if I have helped you and click Accept as Solution if your problem is solved.

[Sweiner13]

i AM curious as to why if I have a 4gb slot in there now I can not replace it with an 8 gb memory.  I would still be using only one memory slot.  Also can I just add one 4gb or do I have to replace the original and purchase two?  thank you

[old_geekster]

You are welcome, @Sweiner13!

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@Sweiner13 wrote:

i AM curious as to why if I have a 4gb slot in there now I can not replace it with an 8 gb memory.   I would still be using only one memory slot.  Also can I just add one 4gb or do I have to replace the original and purchase two?  thank you

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Please read my original post again and, especially, the links that I provided.  HP has their motherboards and other components made to their specifications.  They use the motherboards in many different models with many different configurations.  This allows them to set different price points.  Your motherboard is setup to only use 1 GB, 2 GB and 4 GB memory modules.  An 8 GB module would not be recognized.  As I stated in my original post, you should use CPU-Z to find the manufacturer and timings for the current memory.  If you install a different brand with different timings from the one that is installed, it may not work properly and you would be back with more questions.  Once you know the brand and timings you can contact the manufacturer of your choice to assure their memory will be compatible.  If not, you will have to replace the current 4 GB.  This information is on Page 54 of the link that I provided in my original post.