Help with understanding laptop RAM

[Seraj]

Hi,

Before I start, this [http://uk.computers.toshiba-europe.com/innovation/jsp/SUPPORTSECTION/discontinuedProductPage.do?service=UK&toshibaShop=false&com.broadvision.session.new=Yes&PRODUCT_ID=1096013] is the laptop I currently have.

I want to upgrade the memory to 8gb, and then allocate 1 gb of it to graphics card (using turbocache).

My question is, are all laptop RAM chips compatible with all laptops?
Can I buy any old 4gb laptop RAM chip with no compatibility problems?
If not, what variables should I keep my eye out for?

I noticed that the RAM in my laptop both run at 1066MHz, is it alright if I buy, say, a 1600MHz chip?

Thanks in advance,

Hardware nub.

 

[Seraj]

If you buy a faster chip it will just run at the lower speed.

Make sure it is DDR3 RAM.

Well, yes,going to DDR2 from DDR3 would be a step down

 

[Erana]

If you buy a faster chip it will just run at the lower speed.

Make sure it is DDR3 RAM.

Well, yes,going to DDR2 from DDR3 would be a step down

He's saying that not because DDR3 is better, but because that is the hardware your computer is designed for. You can't plug DDR3 into a computer with slots for DDR2.

And a general rule of thumb is that, for best performance, buy RAM in same type pairs. (Eg: two 4GB sticks)
Also, be absolutely certain that what your getting is laptop RAM.

Go ahead and browse around on the internet, but immediately after I went and upgraded my RAM, I saw the same capacity RAM for $25 cheaper than the best deals at a random Radioshack, so keep that in mind.