I ordered a 1GB 533 MHz (PC4200) memory module from ShopBySytem an authorized reseller for Gateway Computer. What I received was a 1 GB 667MHz (PC5300) memory module. The PC5300 would work in my computer but only if it was the only module in the macine. It would not work when combined with the two existing PC4200 modules which was of no value to me as I had wanted a totla of 3 GBs. The importer of the Chinese-made module, Crucial, was called to determine any known problems and they told me the PC4200 was no longer available and they were aware of the incompatability with the PC5300 but could not refund as they did not sell the module. I then called ShopBySystem and their rep Sandy also advised they aware of the incompatability issue. The Crucial module would simply not work with my exisiting Gateway modules. Her suggestion...upgrade and buy two more PC5300 Crucial modules and use all three Crucial modules. She would be happy to sell them to me and would waive the ten dollar shipping charge. Thanks but no thanks. She then suggested I sell the extra (unneeded) modules on my own. And that was my only option, she said, as there was a fifteen day limitaion on returns for refunds.

I would normally understand the company's return policy; however, in this case it would never have been an issue had ShopBySystem advised me the PC4200 module was no longer available and they did not take it upon themselves to ship a module known to be incompatible with my sytem. Their attitude is tough, you have the module and now you are stuck with it.

Whereas they knew of the incompatabilty problem I believe shipping the module was a deceptive and fraudulent sales practice and it is my intention to pursue this matter until resolved to my satisfaction.