How to upgrade memory and hard drive in Dell XPS M1530 laptop

This video has step by step instructions for upgrading memory and hard drive in a Dell XPS M1530 laptop.

Instead of upgrading memory to 2GB (two 1GB modules), I would suggest upgrading it to 4GB (two 2GB modules), it’s the maximum amount of memory you can install into a Dell XPS M1530 laptop.

Both memory slots can be accessed if you remove one cover on the bottom. Dell recommends using DDR2 667MHz PC2-5300 SODIMM memory modules.

Alternatively, you can use faster memory modules, for example DDR2 PC2-6400 but they will clock down and run at PC2-5300 speed.

The author is installing a Seagate Momentus 160GB 7200RPM SATA hard drive. That’s a good one. You’ll see the difference in the laptop performance if upgrading from a 5400RPM hard drive.

If you need more space, you can upgrade to a Seagate Momentus 320GB 7200RPM SATA hard drive.

After upgrading the hard drive you’ll have to run the installation CDs in order to install the operating system.

Here are some other guides for a Dell XPS M1530 laptop:

1. How to replace LCD screen and inverter board.

2. How to clean or replace the cooling fan.