I have never added ram to the Sony, I would assume slot #2 is for upgrading.
I did read that once in a forum when I was troubleshooting something else.
I have since built a mamouth rack system as I stepped into video and needed mass storage and full sized cards etc...
So unfortunately this beautiful system the the Sony is built into just sits and I practice on it.
As far as a Port replicator goes, I have fell in love with the IPOD back up and it offers a lower profile presence and immediate patch should I need it.
I have never had to do anything with the Sony, I have ripped my other one apart to repair which I might consider if trouble ever comes my way with this one.
When I bought it I got a 3 year 1 try or replace warranty from Circuit City with a loaner. It never fails with extended warrantys (at least me). But I thought the insurance was worth it if I had a problem on thursday and needed some recourse.
I noticed you use BPM, do you use their controller? And how do you set up your system with the drives, controller, and laptop? Post a pic if you can.
http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid128/pa26617001bab433e08d92f386af624c7/f7dcee46.jpg
Interesting facts on the static Mike, I couldn't believe what came out of this thing.
It's now routine maintenence along with cleaning the drives.