Question
I have an unmodified, just as it came in the box, ThinkPad Z61m now running Windows 7 Home Premium and I want to max out the memory. How many modules of what GB capacity can I install? Also, what memory supplier might be recommended if I wasn't planning to purchase them as Options from Lenovo?
Answer
The Z61m has two memory sockets which can be populated with 1Gb or 2GB modules in combination to a maximum of 4 GB RAM, however only 3 GB of RAM will be used (regardless of the OS). The 3 GB limit is due to the limit of the Intel chipset used in this generation of system.
Here is a link to the training videos on Z60m which is mechanically similar. Click FRU components from the first index on the left, and then the memory dimm module video from the index on the left for installation details. Detailed memory specifications for module type:
- PC2-5300 Non-Parity (NP) Double Data Rate Two (DDR2) Technology
- The use of 667 MHz SO DIMM memory is recommended for this system.
- 256 MB, 512 MB, 1 GB, or 2 GB of standard memory
- Supports maximum memory up to 3GB
- To achieve the maximum 3 GB, you need to replace the existing memory modules ( if less than 1GB capacity) with a 1 GB module and add another 2 GB module in the extra slot.
Many customers have reported success with Crucial brand memory in the forum. Hynix has also been frequently used.
