exxos's Atari, Amiga & retro forum

Planning on adding 512MB RAM to a 520STFM which uses 16 pin DIL RAM chips.

Question is whether to use sockets or not?

Opinions welcome before I proceed.

I'd use sockets as ram chips can go bad sometimes, easier to swap out. But honestly if I was going to that kind of effort in an STfm I'd prefer to fit this 4mb board: https://www.exxosforum.co.uk/atari/store2/#0020

But yeah, you'll need a lot of sockets for 512MB of ram! :lol:

I always fit sockets. As RAM is prone to fail, it makes life easier to fix later on.

Thanks for the advice chaps.

Given that I wasn't aware that RAM chips can often go bad and I already have sufficient sockets in my spares box, I'll use sockets. I've checked that there is enough clearance under the PSU (board is a C070789)

The 4MB upgrade looked interesting but I'm loath to unsolder the existing RAM or use one of these piggyback boards. It also looks quite intrusive re cutting the shield etc.

I also think that 1MB should be enough for my needs.

@Slartibartfast Yeah if you mainly wanting to play old games 1mb is generally enough, as long as you use floppy disks or a Gotek. If you go down the hard disk route, like an ultrasatan or something, then you'll be better with 2mb+ since hard disk adapted games need more memory.

Aside from adding sockets, which is always a good idea when adding or replacing ICs, don't forget to add decoupling capacitors and the extra resistors needed too.

rubber_jonnie wrote: 14 May 2023 21:36 Aside from adding sockets, which is always a good idea when adding or replacing ICs, don't forget to add decoupling capacitors and the extra resistors needed too.

I ordered the capacitors when I ordered the RAM from EXXOS (fast delivery thanks), and have suitable resistors in my junk box.

I have a Gotek drive already so don't plan on going down the hard drive route but thanks for the 'heads up'.

Slartibartfast wrote: 15 May 2023 10:47
I ordered the capacitors when I ordered the RAM from EXXOS (fast delivery thanks), and have suitable resistors in my junk box.

Good stuff.