Can you put a HP memory card in your Dell Dimension?

Answer 1

Possibly, possibly not. It depends on the memory chip. (Assuming you're talking about a memory module.)

Memory modules aren't so much keyed to a particular manufacturer. They come in a wide variety of types and configurations, so it's really a question of whether or not the two computers use the same types of memory.

For example, if your HP used a PC133 DIMM and your new Dell uses DDR2 memory, you would not be able to transfer the chips because they are of differing types.

Generally, the quickest way to tell is if the slot size and the notch in the chip line up on the computer you want to put it in. Computer memory slots usually have some sort of notch to help you align the chip correctly. If it doesn't go in and you have tried turning it around, it probably is not meant to fit in the slot you want to place it in.

Even if it does fit, it still may be incompatible. As computers advance, the memory technology also advances, and older computers may not be able to recognize memory types that were created after the computer was released, even if they use the same type of memory slot.

The simplest way to check is to just try putting it in. If it fits and the computer boots and recognizes it, you're good to go! Generally speaking, if it is incompatible memory the computer just won't start up and will probably sit there and beep at you...