How to: Install or replace DRAM memory chip.
Solution:
NOTE: This task should be performed by a qualified computer technician.
Replace the DRAM chip(s) by removing the computer cover, locating and removing the old chip(s), and installing the new chip(s). Power up the system, watch the POST memory test, and update the BIOS.
WARNING: Electrical shock hazard! Make sure the power is turned off and the external power cables have been disconnected before removing the computer cover.
CAUTION 1: This task should be performed by a qualified computer technician.
CAUTION 2: Please observe steps to reduce the potential damage to computer components from electrostatic discharge.
NOTE: You must have your computer's user manual to complete the following steps.
1) Remove the computer cover.
2) Read the owner's manual, and inspect the motherboard to make sure that DRAM is the type of memory chip you have installed.
3) Determine the amount of memory you wish to install or replace.
NOTE: Sometimes memory must be added in specific increments in order to fill an entire memory bank (e.g., 2MB, 4MB or 8MB, depending on the memory type). This information should be available in the owner's manual.
4) Determine the speed of the existing memory, and make sure the speed of the new DRAM chip(s) match.
NOTE: If removing an old DRAM is not required, skip to step 6) for installation steps.
5) To remove old DRAM(s):
a) Touch the chassis to discharge any static.
b) Remove the old DRAM chip with a chip puller.
NOTE: Grasp the edges firmly between the tips of the tweezers and pull straight up (rocking gently back and forth if necessary).
c) Place the DRAM chip in an anti-static envelope.
CAUTION: Do not mix up the old DRAMs with new DRAMs
d) Repeat steps 5)a) to 5)c) to remove additional DRAMs.
6) Install new DRAM(s):
a) Locate the proper chip socket on the motherboard.
b) Touch the chassis to discharge static electricity.
c) Install the new DRAM chip by aligning its pins with the socket, and pressing down firmly until it is seated.
CAUTION: Be careful not to bend or damage the delicate pins on the DRAM chip or on the motherboard's chip socket.
d) Repeat steps 6)a)through 6)c) to install additional DRAMs.
e) Make sure all the DRAMs are level and completely seated by again pressing down firmly on each chip.
f) Check the owner's manual to determine if any jumpers or DIP switches on the motherboard must be changed so that the computer will recognize the added memory.
g) Move the jumpers and/or change the DIP switches, if necessary.
7) Test the computer to see if the new memory is recognized and functioning properly:
a) Make sure no parts or tools remain in the chassis.
b) Replace the necessary cables (power, keyboard, video), and plug in the power cable.
c) Turn on the computer.
d) Carefully observe the MEMORY TEST portion of the POST. (It should report 1024KB of memory for each MB of memory installed. Some computers may be off by 384KB, depending on how they handle the 384KB in the first 1MB of memory.)
NOTE: An error message that reports inconsistent memory may appear because of inconsistencies between the BIOS information and the actual memory found.
e) If all installed memory is not reported, or the POST does not complete successfully:
1] Turn off the computer.
2] Unplug the power cable.
3] Touch the chassis to discharge any static electricity.
4] Recheck all the DRAMs to make sure they are properly seated. If necessary, remove and reinstall them using steps 5) and 6) above, or run a hardware diagnostic program to identify which chip(s) may be faulty.
5] Repeat steps 7)a) through 7)e) to retry the memory test.
NOTE: Older BIOS may require the user to update the amount of memory manually.
8) Replace the computer cover
9) Create a System Boot Diskette.
