The instructions on this page provide general installation and handling information for 184-Pin DDR memory modules. These instructions are intended to be used in conjunction with your model specific owner's manual.

Note: Before touching electronic components, make sure you are properly grounded. By wearing a wrist strap (or using some other type of static control device), you can prevent static electricity stored on your body or clothing from damaging your installation.

The first thing to do is make sure the computer is shut down.

1. Note that it may seem sensible to unplug the computer before installing the RAM, but we don't recommend it. Keeping the machine plugged in will ground it, and this is important because that way any static electricity built up in your body will be discharged before handling the RAM chips. You can do this by touching any metal part of the case. Frying a chip with static electricity is a rare occurrence, but still possible.

2. Remove the computer's cover following the instructions in the model-specific owner's manual.

3. Locate the memory expansion sockets on the computer's motherboard. If all the sockets are full, remove smaller capacity modules to allow room for higher capacity modules.

4. Once you've discharged your static electricity, pick up the memory chip by its top or sides. Don't touch the silver or gold contacts at the bottom, because even a little oil from your finger can eventually interfere with the connection. Regardless of the type of memory you have, it will only go into the empty memory slot one way, so look at the notches in the contacts and line them up so the partitions in the RAM sockets fit in the grooves.

5. Insert the module into an available expansion socket. Press the module into position, making certain the module is completely seated in the socket. The ejector tabs at each end of the socket will automatically snap into the locked position. Repeat this procedure for any additional modules you are installing. The ejector tabs shown in the illustration are used to remove a module. By pushing outward on the ejector tabs, the module will pop-up from the socket and it can then be removed.

6. For most installations, DDR modules can be installed in any available expansion slot. Other installations may require the memory to be installed in a particular sequence based on the modules capacity. Check your owner's manual to determine the correct installation sequence for your configuration.

7. Turn on the computer and follow the instructions in your computer owner's manual that describe the steps necessary to allow your computer to recognise the newly installed memory. (Most computers will automatically recognize the additional memory installed).