MSI Prestige PS42 8RA-042CZ Modern RAM upgrade specifications
The MSI Prestige PS42 8RA-042CZ Modern laptop features DDR4-SDRAM memory with one SO-DIMM slot for RAM upgrades. The memory specifications support a maximum capacity of 16 GB, operating at 2400 MHz frequency. Compatible upgrades utilize the SO-DIMM form factor, enabling users to expand the system's memory capacity through the single available slot. The upgrade specifications provide the technical parameters required for memory module selection and installation on the MSI PS series platform.
Memory Upgrade Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Memory slots | 1x SO-DIMM |
| Form factor | SO-DIMM |
| Memory type | DDR4-SDRAM |
| Frequency | 2400 MHz |
| Maximum RAM | 16 GB |
| Voltage | 1.2V |
| Number of pins | 260-pin |
| Interface | PC4 |
| PC Speed Rating | PC4-2400 (PC4-19200) |
| Bandwidth | 19.2 GB/s |
| Laptop Release date | 25 May 2019 |
Additional Notes
- The MSI Prestige PS42 8RA-042CZ Modern contains a soldered memory module paired with a single upgradeable SO-DIMM slot, meaning maximum addressable RAM reaches 16 GB only if the soldered portion is 8 GB; if soldered memory is 4 GB, practical ceiling becomes 12 GB.
- DDR4-2400 MHz specification indicates the system lacks support for faster DDR4 variants (3200, 3600 MHz), preventing performance gains from newer memory modules regardless of their rated speed; installed modules will downclock to 2400 MHz or potentially cause boot failures if the BIOS lacks fallback timings.
- Single SO-DIMM slot eliminates dual-channel architecture benefits, forcing single-channel memory operation; bandwidth limitation to approximately 19 GB/s constrains performance in memory-intensive workloads compared to dual-channel configurations delivering 38 GB/s.
- SO-DIMM form factor restriction requires laptop-specific memory modules; desktop DDR4 UDIMM modules are physically incompatible and cannot be adapted without voiding warranty and risking hardware damage.
- 8 GB total system RAM configuration (1 soldered plus 1 upgradeable slot) represents a bandwidth bottleneck for multitasking and virtualization; upgrading to 16 GB alleviates resource constraints but does not address the inherent single-channel memory throughput limitation.
- Warranty coverage typically remains valid for SO-DIMM replacement using manufacturer-approved modules; non-standard memory brands or frequencies outside 2400 MHz specifications may trigger warranty exclusions if hardware failure occurs.