Non-certified RAM issues have always affected Apple computers. We will show that those problems could arise due to both the specific design of the RAM controller used by Apple and also by the poor quality of the memory chips often used for "no name" RAM modules .
The chronic RAM module compatibility issue is coupled to the usual habit of Apple to deliver desktop and laptop computers with a ridiculously low amount of memory installed by default . Originally, this was a way for Apple to allow Apple resellers to generate a larger profit margin by selling Cupertino-designed computers (hardware margins have also been really tiny). However, the launch of the physical Apple Store and the open war between Apple and its resellers have amplified the problem that there is not enough RAM installed by default, which is the main cause of slow OS responsiveness, GUI fluidity, and in general, the overall performance of Apple-branded computers. This is especially true since OSX and its Unix-based kernel are , by definition, RAM hungry , leading users to look for alternatives to the Apple-certified modules .


Full story in http://hardmac.com/articles/56/

if I am using iBook G4 1.33 with 512mb ram, is it necessary to add another 512mb?
will it make the machine faster in term of iLife app like iPhoto, iMovie, iDVD??

definitely. u will feel the difference. I've been holding myself to upgrade the RAM. Probably very soon i have to do so.

btw the intel mac using the same ram as pc right?

they still call it "Apple RAM" or "Apple certified RAM".

yeah, but there`s no need to buy the ram from an apple store , the prices there are scaryily high ..

I really dont have guts to install myself, i guess I need to buy from apple store. The last time I asked them is around RM380 for 512mb .. the early is around RM450 for 512mb..
also been holding me for upgrading the ram.. been struggle whether is necessary ..

the downside is no matter how many things u buy from Apple .. seem they also dont give u discount one ..sad nia ..

Plan to get the apple care for my ibook before end of sep, maybe ask for the discount for ram upgrade, guess the new intel mac book out ..they will need to clear old stock .. hope so ..hehe

I had the impression that Apple resellers can help customers to install a third party ram (presumably you're getting one yourself), it doesn't have to be their proprietary ram, but I'm not sure if they would charge any fee...

mana abang xaw....? he maybe able to confirm this....

Apple suggest u to install RAM urself
it's a very easy installation.

eh, dun call me 'abang' la...

well, I'll do it personally, but don't expect my colleagues to do it... and I'll probably do it when I'm off work.

its quite simple... I don't know why LowYat.net members are afraid to install RAM in a laptop

not everyone in IT forum are IT expert u see
some are just casual user like me

xaw

How about for mac mini , is it possible , could you install the RAM

off-work....?

what if installing ram on warranted macs....? I mean like my iMac, installing ram myself requires an amount of force to slot it in, but an overexerting force could damage the logic board, which is not covered by the Apple warranty. Should I go back to the Apple reseller then...?

Let's just say on your "off-work" capacity I let you install ram on my mac, and you screwed it up, would Apple cover that as well....?

No offence dude, just a scenario here....

I would suggest that for Mac Mini, you better send to Apple Centre in case you wanna install additional RAM. I tried to open mine, but it d**n hard, I guess you got to have special device to open it, Do check it here : http://www.ifixit.com/Guide/82.13.1.html.

But for Imac, its pretty easy to install same goes for PowerBook. (Note : for Powerbook user, please take out your battery first before you install any RAM, or else you PowerBook will act strangely after that- coz I have experienced myself)

mac mini = HELL NO!

iMac G5 = no problem.

worried about jeyadev aka xaw5126 breaking your mainboard = I don't install the RAM for you, no worries

I jst got my mac mini core duo recently frm macasia...want to knw wht is the ideal ram size for the mini to perform well...I use the mini for all stuff...even encoding music into itunes...I did asked ard but, I m still in doubt abt the ideal ram size needed...thanks...

heheh... ideal is a subjective word la. the best is to go to the maximum you can afford. I suggest you go to 2 GB la

ok..oredi got 2gb...

err...my fren using normal ram for his mac mini....seems no prob till now....

no prob is one thing...but, how is the performance?...