My Acer Aspire 3680 has 512 MB, and I need to upgrade to 1GB. The current system configuration uses a DDR2 533MHz SDRAM module. While it is very easy to find DDR2 modules, I was having trouble finding a SDRAM at 533 MHz. Can I go for a DDR2 667Mhz SODIMM module instead? The FSB runs at 533MHz. Are the DDR2 667MHz backward compatible? PS: If a thread of similar nature already exists, could you please direct me to that one, cause I can't seem to find it. Thanks a lot.
Generally speaking quicker RAM will work at slower mobo speeds, it just wont work at its full potential. Its best to be a little cautious when buying RAM as it can be a mine field so double check what you're buying. You really need to check against any documentation you have for your machine or call the manufacturer but speed wise theres no problem. EDIT: I'm sure you'll find lots of threads on similar subjects but you'll probably need to use the advanced search to help narrow it down
here is some cheap prices i found: 1 GB module here: 1GB PC4200 DDR2 533 SODIMM LAPTOP MEMORY - eBay (item 140199244960 end time Jan-19-08 01:29:31 PST) 512 MB module here: Infineon 512MB 2Rx16 DDR2 533MHz PC4200 Laptop Memory - eBay (item 150206762797 end time Jan-23-08 13:45:21 PST) u need to see if these work with your laptop if more help is needed i can help
generally the easiest option is to remove the old RAM (if you can) and just buy a complete replacement cos putting almost any DDR2 RAM will work in any mobo you only get problems when you start trying to match DIMMs together, as you will probably see from this post