Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop

Subject: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: oldfogie
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 07:05 AM

Hi
I have a HP desktop computer and an Advent laptop - the query is - can I plug the desk top tower into the laptop and access its memory and use it as back up memory (in a 'simple' way)is it just a case of male to male usb lead or is this just wishful thinking.
thanks

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: The Fooles Troupe
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 08:27 AM

Well, you can't directly access the tower RAM from the laptop.

As far as the HD goes, you can network the 2 machines with a crossover cable, and access the HD on the tower from the laptop.

Now as to HOW you do that, if you want to know, that's another question, another $20.... :-P

:-)

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: oldfogie
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 08:47 AM

bugger bang goes another idea
thanks for the info

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: GUEST,highlandman at work
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 09:50 AM

As FT said, you can't access the RAM directly.
But is that what you want to do? Or are you looking for extra storage? Two different things.
Networking your laptop to a desktop and sharing the drives is a (relatively) simple thing to do. That would allow you to backup files from the laptop on the desktop, or store things you don't need frequently on the desktop.
I suggest you consider picking up a USB external hard drive, which adds lots of storage capacity, can be had for under $200, and won't require mucking around with network settings.
Or, for much less $$ (but much smaller storage) you could get a memory stick or two.
But if you're after more RAM (say, to increase the performance of the laptop on certain programs) then it has to be installed into the laptop itself.
-Glenn

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: Mr Red
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 10:02 AM

You can get a Laplink USB to USB. It has what amounts to a cross over in the middle (with a chip probably) and the 5v's do not feed each other. A simple USB to USB will cause damsge and you still don't have the resident software.

You have load software on each PC and then the other PC looks like another HD on the system - just the HD mind.

External HD cases and HDD are usually USB 2.x. If one of the USB sockets is 1.1 it doesn't work. I have that situation with my various PC's. I have to remover the HDD and use the IDE connection. Your laptop HDD has a different connector, surely. Even if you were brave enough to remove it.

Laplink have made serial and parallel port cables do what is wanted. I bet you could find them cheap now. And if the PC's are old what OS 's are involved? There are cheapo versions of Laplink products but one slip and you load the wrong driver and - they are useles. I should know. Go with Laplink.

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: GUEST,highlandman at work
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 10:46 AM

I forgot about Laplink. Yes, that is a very good solution, extremely simple to use, but I haven't seen it around lately.
On the other hand I am using USB2.x external drives with USB1.1 ports on two computers and they work (although they complain every time I connect them). That may just be the luck of the draw there, your mileage may certainly vary.
-G

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: GUEST,Bob Ryszkiewicz
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 10:53 AM

Has anybody heard about portable RAM being developed? I have seen a patent application on the net, and have heard rumors at my local Mac store...But so far, that's about it...Sure fire way to become a Billionaire if you can do it...bob

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: open mike
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 11:23 AM

i have used a PC-Linq USB transfer device but i have hear that it can transfer virus, bugs, etc. without you knowing it...so make sure you have a protection planin place on both ends.

http://www.prolific.com.tw/eng/Products.asp?ID=20

http://www.bafo.com/products_bf-7312_F.asp


the google ad below shows this one

http://www.sfcable.com/cable/p/UB30-21.html?gclid=CO3h9Jv6xJUCFQcfgwodiGuUhQ

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: oldfogie
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 01:12 PM

thanks everyone, food for thought

Subject: RE: Tech: using tower as extra memory for a laptop
From: olddude
Date: 05 Sep 08 - 01:27 PM

Use the external USB hard drive. They are cheap.   Memory sticks are even cheaper and you can get several. I bought and 8 gig for under 20 dollars on sale