%META:TOPICINFO{author="ChrisBartram" date="1147830676" format="1.1" version="1.1"}%
%META:TOPICPARENT{name="Hp3000Hardware"}%
I want to add memory to my system. Are 3rd-party brokers OK? Is "used" memory OK? 

For the most part, yes. If you get HP boards, make sure they have been certified for HP maintenance; if you get 3rd party boards, check on their support options (typically FedEx overnight board swap). EMC, Kelley, and Datasys are (IMHO) reliable and easy to install (speaking first-hand, no sleight to the other vendors). But bear in mind if you have a suspected memory problem, you are best served by having adequate HP memory to be able to pull the "alien" boards and still be able to reproduce an error if you are calling HP for service, else you may get into "finger-pointing" relative to the cause of the problem. If the "alien" board is at fault, you're looking at time and materials billing. Likewise for any other 3rd party products you purchase. There are some good deals out there. There are also some questionable brokers.

 --[[JeffKell]]

Note that there are a few brokers out there that will actually let you try the new memory out before you make any committment to buy. You get the opportunity to verify that the memory will help your system without having to "stick your neck out" getting a purchase order approved.

Also note that even HP buys some memory from 3rd party brokers for their internal systems.

-- Main.ChrisBartram - 17 May 2006