1gb stick from compaq not working, 1beep then 2beeps, hangs on startup

Some units emit a flashing code. Check your manual to see if the flashes represent a fault code.

Start in Safe Mode by pressing F8 during boot. Then...

Try disabling startup programs. Go to Start > Run (search in Win 7) and type MSConfig > Startup tab and uncheck anything that you don't want Windows to load automatically. It will make Windows boot faster and use less resources while running.

This just disables them in startup. Programs will still load, but when you initiate.

might not be a working pair

are the memory modules of the same brand and type
IE: hynex ddr3 low density

if you're not sure if a module is right for your system, use the Crucial Memory Advisor tool for a list of guaranteed compatible modules. first you will need to select the manufacturer from a drop down list then select your product line from a drop down list then select the model then click find it will take you directly to compatible ram also you will have an option to scan your system

hope it helps

the beeps are post during post the very first work is done by the ram,all the memory in the ram is first transferred to the hard disk,and remains active untill turned off.
make sure that your RAM is securely seated
try replacing all the leads that attach to your hard drive including electrical extensions + IDE,SATA the ones that attach from your motherboard to hard drive
make sure all leads that are attached to your drives dvd\cd 3 1/2 inch floppy have secure connections and are not faulty or just replace them they are probably old and faulty ?
hope this helps

Has anything changed since it was working last? check that first
Next -- the Beep codes indicate a hardware problem --the PC was unable to POST(Power On Self Test-)-but DELL's beep codes closest to what you described is either 1-2-video card not detected or 1-3-1-1 which is Memory (RAM) error adn the PHEONIX beep code of 1-3-2 is Memory error also-- so be sure all cards and chips are seated properly--I dont think its the hardrive --a PC can still boot and POST without a hardrive.

Have you tried both memory modules in the laptop seperately?
Does the computer post anything at all? Do you get flashing lights on the laptop?

You may have just bought a stick of gum! This ram could have been sold on e-bay for any number of reasons. It's not likely that you can get your money back. Sometimes even identical appearing ram won't function with original ram. Check with tigerdirect.com on the web for ram and other computer parts. Good luck!

I suggest to use only 1gb stick on your laptop. Some of the machine don't require to upgrage memory size from the original size due to system limitation and this will some leads to system hang or wont able to boot machine at all.

you need to install your os at startup
you need to go back into safemode and remove some programs

http://h10032.www1.hp.com/ctg/Manual/c01301275.pdf

Page 43 of this manual seems to have the best documentation on memory for this machine. I saw a 2GB max in another document and this shows the biggest module as 1GB. I would believe that infers a pair.