CF-M34 RAM Problem

**wasp61** · October 30th, 2009, 04:23 PM

I have three Panasonic Toughbook CF-M34 laptops. All have 933mhz processors, 256 mg RAM and 100G+ HDD. I bought them as parts or repair machines and after a few problems were worked out, they all run great.
The one problem that I can't seem to solve is how to add additional RAM. I have tried adding 256 mg using the directed chip (256mg pc133 3.3v sodimm sdram) but once installed all the machines wil do is beep at me and not boot up. I don't have a clue as to what is wrong.
Anybody got any ideas?

**TrekCaptainUSA** · October 30th, 2009, 07:09 PM

You checked the beep codes to see what the problem was (as in what the beeps mean)?

**EDIT: The beeps that wasp61 heard are called "beep codes", and different patterns and lengths relate to different problems. Usually when you hear these, it's a good idea to google what they mean, because they are important.**

**wasp61** · October 30th, 2009, 09:02 PM

Beep codes? Never heard of them.

**wasp61** · October 30th, 2009, 09:27 PM

OK, Beeps relate incompatiable or defective new memory module. Thanks TC!

**TrekCaptainUSA** · October 30th, 2009, 10:24 PM

No problem.

Oh, and if you hear any beeps in the future during boot, assume that its a beep code, and google what it means.

**TrekCaptainUSA** · October 30th, 2009, 10:26 PM

Sorry for the post spam, but one last thought:

If you want to check and see what RAM is compatible with your computer, you can always try and use this: http://www.corsair.com/configurator/default.aspx

If your computer isn't listed there, then google it.

**CCT** · October 31st, 2009, 05:09 AM

Link to a Service Manual; http://www.telcodata.us/~myself/CF-M...E%20MANUAL.pdf

edit: and this interesting tidbit from Wiki;

"Q: Can you upgrade the RAM past 192mb?

A: Yes, but not very efficiently.. 128mb in the slot gives you 192mb total, 256mb in the slot gives you 192mb again but a 512mb gives you 256mb in total. So if you have a spare 512mb SODIMM going to waste its worth doing. (Update: See memory module density for a possible explanation!) (Update 2: the 256/512mb upgrade was with this SO-DIMM)"

http://toughbook.wikispaces.com/cf-m34

**petebarchetta** · June 16th, 2010, 05:37 PM

hello,

recently got hold of a m34 toughbook, i'm intruiged how the m34 can be a 900mhz unit as i thought it was a p3 400mhz, i know there is someone who has upgradede the motherboard to a 700mhz M/B, i'm curious which unit the 700mhz board comes out from?
also has anyone got the usb to boot properly from a usb pendrive?
i wanted to install / run live a linux distro to check compatibility.
any info would be great

thanks