A
step-by-step guide showing how to install memory into your
computer without a technician, including necessary safety
precautions.
To
Install Memory, Follow This Guideline:
Once you've selected your correct memory, you can proceed
to install memory card(s) onto your motherboard. The procedure
is not difficult, and can be performed by a non-technical
person. However, there are a few precautions to take to prevent
damaging your new RAM cards.
Electrostatic
Discharge (ESD) Information
Electrostatic discharge, the release of static electricity,
can damage any of the electronic components of a computer,
such as the disk drive, system board, processor, memory, add-in
boards, etc. This is important to keep in mind as you install
memory. ESD occurs when you touch an object that conducts
electricity and is at a different electrical potential than
you are. To protect your memory module from ESD, keep the
module in its original ESD-protective package. Do not remove
it from the protective packaging until you are ready to install
it.
Note: Flash memory cards are protected from ESD by their plactic
cases; no special ESD precautions are necessary.
Equipment
Multilingual Install Guide
See our Multilingual
Install Guide (270K PDF) for installation
instructions in English, French, Spanish, German, Italian,
Swedish, Dutch, and Portuguese.
To
view this file you will need Adobe® Acrobat® Reader.
If you don't already have Adobe Acrobat Reader, download
it now for free.
Rules of Thumb for Memory Module Installation
1. Make sure that you are working in a static safe
environment. Remove any plastic bags or papers from your work
space, and make sure to keep your computer plugged in but
with the power turned off. Keeping your PC plugged in will
keep the case grounded, thus reducing the chance of damaging
the module or system from ESD. Touch an
unpainted metal part of your case before touching your new
modules or any other components in your system.
2. Refer to your computer's manual when removing the
computer's cover.
3. Ground yourself by touching any of the unpainted
metal surfaces on your computer's frame. (This will remove
any static electricity from your body or clothing)
4. Locate your computer's memory expansion slots (consult
your owner's manual).
5. Insert your memory upgrade according to the illustrations
in this guide. Note how the modules are keyed to the socket.
This ensures that the module will be aligned correctly.
6. Once the module(s) have been installed, the computer's
cover can be replaced. The installation is now complete.
Note: When restarting your computer you may get a message
prompting you to update the configuration settings. Refer
to your computer's manual on how to accomplish this step.
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