Toshiba Satellite A85. How to remove laptop memory module.
I had to replace a failed memory module in this Toshiba Satellite A85 laptop. The memory failed the Memtest 86+ test and I ordered a replacement from Toshiba. I have never worked before on this laptop model, and I planed to spend not more then 5-10 minutes for such a simple operation as a memory module replacement. Toshiba doesn’t provide a disassembly guide for this laptop model yet and I didn’t know how memory slots are located. I found only one unpopulated memory slot on the bottom of the laptop, so the second memory slot should be somewhere under the keyboard. Under the keyboard one very ugly surprise was waiting for me. The second memory slot was located under the top cover assembly and there were no way to replace the memory without taking the whole thing apart! There was no opening or a hatch for easy memory access! What a nice design. I had to spend an extra 30-40 minutes to take the laptop apart only for replacing the failed memory module.
June 3rd, 2008 at 2:42 pm
All you do is open the memory panel and snap it in at step 3. The Toshiba guide comes with instructions. You don’t have to take everything apart. It took about five minutes.
March 23rd, 2008 at 11:47 am
BTW does anyone here know of a good third-party power adapter for these laptops (the A85 series). I’ve had issues with the power adapter that came with these laptops and looking for my second replacement. The first power adapter failed because I had accidentally bent it near where it plugs in; I replaced it with the same model of adapter, which (after a year or so of use) has the tendency to fall apart. (Like many adapters, the adapter comes in two parts: the middle part is where the boxy-thing meets the two-holed cord-thing. These parts loosen up from the slightest pull.) It’s quite annoying because it causes my laptop to frequently lose power during the slightest motion/readjustment of position. Since the battery is completely dead, I lose power (and all work if I haven’t recently saved). This adapter is now also bent near where it plugs into the laptop, just like my previous adapter. I’d like to find a good adapter, probably manufactered by a third party, one that is not so easily prone to bend nor fall apart. Thanks for any information you can provide!