RAM slot(s) failing in some PowerBooks (#3)

We continue coverage [4-06, 4-07] of an issue where the lower (or less frequently, upper) memory slots in some PowerBooks fail, leaving users with less available RAM than is actually installed. As previously noted, some users are not aware of the issue until they check the "About This Mac" pane accessible via the Apple menu or experience significant slow-down in a particular application.

We've received additional reports of users having success with quick turnaround on repairs from Apple.

Riccardo Cassinis writes:

"I had the same problem on my 1-week old 15" 1.67 GHz PowerBook. Apple directed me to an authorized repair center here in Italy, where I was told it would take one to two weeks to get the replacement logic board. However, since the PB could be used putting the RAM in the upper, working slot, they were kind enough to leave it in my possession until they got the replacement (it took less than one week). Then they called me, and the actual repair took less than five hours. Free of charge, of course. A very good example of efficiency and true ?customer care."

Unfortunately, as also reported yesterday, we're receiving notes from some users whose logic boards are failing again after being replaced by yesterday.

David Burk writes:

"I am having a similar problem with my 15" 1.25 GHz Powerbook. After working flawlessly for over a year, my Powerbook recently stopped recognizing the DIMM in its lower memory slot. I took the machine in to my authorized service centre and the logic board was declared faulty and replaced under AppleCare. Unfortunately, within days, the problem returned. The technician now suspects that one of my memory modules is to blame for the problems. I am now waiting for the replacement memory to arrive so I can test this theory. I remain skeptical, since in my informal testing, the laptop worked fine with either DIMM in the upper memory slot."

We've also received word from some readers who have regained inaccessible RAM by re-seating the modules, as suggested yesterday.

Walt Sellers writes: "A client of mine had the same problem with their PowerBook several weeks ago. She sent it to Apple for repairs and was told that it was a motherboard problem. Since it was out of warrantee, the repair would cost US$999.00. After she declined the repair, I re-seated the RAM and it worked for a week before having problems again. Moving the RAM to the other slot has worked so far."

Purchasing a logic board for self-install Some readers whose machines are out of warranty are attempting a self-install of a new logic board. The part is available from a number of retailers, including PowerBook Medic and PBParts.com.

MacFixIt reader James Cheek, for instance, writes:

"I have a early Ti book 400 which I had the logic board replaced two years ago (#3) and about one year later the upper ram slot died. I have been working with 512 MB since that time, since I do not want to invest more money in this slow machine. I tried switching ram, purchasing original Apple Ram but nothing works. I will have to purchase a new (#4) logic board I suppose. I at least have learned how to switch out my logic board and will purchase a used logic board from PB Parts or one of the other suppliers. Hopefully both slots will work."

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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