Install Guides

How do you install memory?

It is easy! The installation process varies among types of systems, e.g., desktops, notebooks. The system manual should have complete and detailed installation instructions specific to the system. If you do not have access to your system manual use this document as a general guide.

Desktop Memory Installation Guide (for DIMM or RIMM)

Step 1: Get the right size nonmagnetic screwdriver if required for opening the case.

Step 2: Static electricity can damage the memory and other computer parts. You can avoid shocking your computer by grounding yourself. If you have an anti-static wrist straps, wear it. If not, you can ground yourself by following these steps: Turn off the computer, monitor, and all attached accessories such as printers and speakers. Touch an unpainted metal part of your computer case to discharge any static in your body. Do not walk around and if you did then ground yourself again before touching any of the internal parts of the computer.

Step 3: Open the computer case. Every computer case is a little different, so check your system manual to find out how to open your case. Wait for the computer to discharge any stored power and for computer to cool down.

Step 4: Find the memory slots on the motherboard. Memory slots usually have ejector clips at the each end of each slot. Some of the memory slots may probably already be filled with memory modules.

Step 5: Remove the memory you are replacing (if necessary). If you have the required number of open DIMM slots, skip this step and go on to Step 6. For many systems including those with Rambus RIMMs, you may need to install in pairs. For Rambus systems you may need to remove Continuity Rambus In-Line Memory Modules (CRIMMs). CRIMMs are thin green-colored boards that do not have an aluminum shield. If all of your memory slots are full, you will need to remove one or more of the old modules or CRIMMs before you can install the new memory. Press down on the ejector clips on either side of the module and remove it from the slot.

Step 6: Install the new module(s). Take the module(s) out of its anti-static bag and hold it by the edges. If there is more than one open slot, fill the lowest numbered slot first. If you cannot see any numbers on the motherboard, use the slot that is closest to the filled slot(s). Line up the notches in the row of gold pins at the bottom of your module with the keys in the memory slot on the motherboard. If the notches don't line up right away, turn the module around and try it the other way. It doesn't matter which side of the module has the black chips or the stickers on it. The important thing is to line up the notches.

Place module in slot while ejector clip is still in unlocked position. Push hard using your thumbs to press the module into the slot. It takes about 20 pounds of pressure to get the module properly inserted in the slot. When you hear a click and both side ejector clips snap up around the module to locked position, you know it is installed correctly. If the memory needs to be installed in pairs, complete Steps 5-6 again.

Step 7: Test before you close your case, turn your computer back on. You should see the new amount of memory displayed on your startup screens or in the properties for "My Computer". If everything works correctly, skip to Step 9. If not, go to Step 8.

Step 8: If you have trouble with your new RAM, check these things first: Check the power cords to make sure everything is plugged in properly. Check if both the side clips are up and holding the module firmly in place. If not, remove the module and replace it to make sure it is seated properly in the slot. Check the wires and cables inside the computer to make sure you did not accidentally bump one of the cables inside the computer while you were installing your module. A loose hard drive cable or video cable can prevent your computer from booting up properly. Make sure all the cables are firmly in their sockets.

If you have any technical difficulty, please email us or call us.

Step 9: Close the computer case and plug in the accessories.

Notebook Memory Installion Guide (SODIMM)

Step 1: Get the right size nonmagnetic screwdriver if required for opening the case.

Step 2: Static electricity can damage the memory and other computer parts. You can avoid shocking your computer by grounding yourself. If you have an anti-static wrist straps, wear it. If not, you can ground yourself by following these steps: Turn off the notebook and all attached accessories such as printers and speakers. Touch an unpainted metal object nearby to discharge any static in your body. Do not walk around and if you did then ground yourself again before touching any of the internal parts of the computer.

Step 3: Find out where your SODIMM memory slots are located and how to access them. SODIMM slots are usually behind a back access panel or sometimes under the keyboard

Step 4: Some of your slots may be already filled with modules. The notebook may have one or more slots. Most SODIMMs are installed individually, but some SODIMMs must be installed in matched pairs known as "banks." The memory banks on your motherboard should be clearly labeled.

Step 5: Remove the memory you are replacing (if necessary). If you have an open SODIMM slot, skip this step and go on to Step 6. If all of your SODIMM slots are full, you will need to remove one or more of your old modules before you can install the new memory. Press down on the retaining clips on either side of the module. Remove the module from the slot.

Step 6: Install your new module(s). Take your module out of its anti-static bag and hold it by the edges. Line up the notch in the row of metal pins at the bottom of your module with the key in the SODIMM slot on your motherboard. The notch in the module fits into a key in the slot . If the notch does not line up right away, turn the module around and try it the other way. It does not matter which side of the module has the black chips or the stickers on it. The important thing is to line up the notches.

Hold the module at a 45-degree angle to the slot and slide it into place. No more than 1/16" of the gold contacts should be showing when the module is properly seated in the slot.

Firmly push it into place. Press the top of the module down until it is lying flat against the motherboard and it snaps into place.

Step 7: Test before you close your case, turn your computer back on. You should see the new amount of memory displayed on your startup screens or in the properties for "My Computer". If everything works correctly, skip to Step 9. If not, go to Step 8.

Step 8: If you have trouble with your new RAM, check these things first: Check the power cords to make sure everything is plugged in properly. Check if both the side clips are up and holding the module firmly in place. If not, remove the module and replace it to make sure it is seated properly in the slot. Make sure all the cables are firmly in their sockets.

If you have any technical difficulty, please email us or call us.

Step 9: Close the computer case and plug in the accessories.