I have not heard that one (about the 1GB being a MS imposed limit)
although it might be true. But I'm more inclined to believe it's just a
cost issue. 512MB gives MUCH worse performance but, for XP, going up
from 1GB doesn't provide that much of a benefit.

Upgrading the memory isn't that easy. On quite a number of the popular
netbooks, there is no "door" in the case; if you want to change a memory
module, you have to do a TOTAL disassembly, and actually remove the
motherboard from the case. I know that is the case with my Acer Aspire
One and also with some models (but not all models) of the Asus Eee.
[Also, on the Aspire One, 512MB is soldered on the motherboard; you
can't get to 2MB, you can only go to 1.5MB].


Larry wrote:
> Mahlon Wagner <mwagner2@twcny.rr.com> wrote in
> news:b21845155m8iecr04q1jn7gin991cpbfa4@4ax.com:
>
>> Is there any reason why netbooks seem to come OEM with only 1 GB RAM,
>> and with Windows XP?
>>
>>
>
> I was told by netbook manufacturers that only 1GB of RAM was allowed to get
> a license from Micro$oft to use WinXP, instead of the hated Vista. So, the
> manufacturers installed 1GB and made it exceptionally easy to upgrade to
> 2GB by simply swapping out the stick.
>
> It's Micro$oft's fault.....
>
>