Any Upgrades Possible for Mid-2007 MBP?

Question

I was wondering if anybody knew the answer to this question.
Before I start, there are a couple of issues I'd like to address.
First, my Macbook Pro's optical drive has become unreliable just like most other users have experienced over the years. To remedy this, I just purchased an external DVD writer. This leaves me with the thought to remove the superdrive and install a second HDD in it's place (See: Data Doubler). Also, the original HDD had failed during my Applecare warranty, and Apple had replaced it with a larger capacity one.
Second, my Time Machine backup external HDD began to make unusual and loud noises today. To me It sounds like it's approaching failure (I certainly hope not), which has really made me think about stepping up to a RAID config.
Finally, I've read in some articles about upgrading 4GB MBP's to 6GB. I was hoping if I could do the same with mine.
So my question invovles the following: Can I upgrade my MBP to have two HDDs in a RAID1 configuration, and add more memory? Can I also set up an External RAID1 or RAID5 configuation? ? If none of these apply, what are my other possible options?
I'm running Lion if that helps.
Thank you.

Answer 1

Just to be sure - is it a MacBookPro3,1? Need to know that first. But of course you can use the Data Doubler in your machine but to set up RAID, I think that you'd have to have two identical HD's in the bay. I've never used RAID on Mac' so I'll let someone else answer that.
As to RAM, MacTracker reports that you can use up to 6GB of RAM (1 stick of 2 GB, 1 stick of 4 GB). You can't go wrong with calling the good folks at OWC to ask about a RAID config using their Data Doubler, though.
And, as to your external 'dying,' I think that my first priority would be replacing it so that you can keep your back-ups up-to-date. You don't say, but since you can run Lion, I'm assuming you are? If so, then you could use Time Machine, which I swear by - I've been using it since my Snow Leopard days on a 2006 1,1.
Again, I'd call OWC and ask for their recommendations. Sure, they're going to want to sell you something but they are always good for advice, too.
Clinton