Installation
Before you install
Once you have your new RAM, take your time in setting up your workspace before you install. Make sure you have a clear workspace (if necessary, move the computer to another table). You should also be equipped with a tool kit that includes screwdrivers and pliers. If any of your tools have magnetized tips, do not touch any chip pins with them. Keep your new RAM in its anti-static packaging until you have your case open and you're ready to plug it in. You should also consider getting yourself a grounding strap.
Go inside
Opening up your computer case--especially for the first time--can be a nerve-wracking endeavor. There are many ways to open different cases, and figuring out how to open yours can be more difficult than the most obtuse puzzle in an adventure game. Once again, consult your manual, or the manufacturer's Web site, for advice. Before you crack open the case, review our tip in the sidebar about static electricity (particularly if you live in a cold, dry climate), and then proceed with caution.
Once your case is open and the power cord is unplugged, locate the SIMM or DIMM sockets. Look for the small circuit boards inside the case that match the size of the memory you purchased. DIMMs are typically longer than SIMMs. Many standard motherboards available today carry only DIMM slots, while some have sockets for both SIMM and DIMMs. You shouldn't mix DIMMs and SIMMs on the same motherboard. The voltages are generally different, and mixing memory types can actually shorten the working life of RAM. Check the motherboard manual to see if mixing is allowed.
While you're scrutinising the module and its socket, take note of the tiny latches on either side. SIMMs usually have metal tabs, while DIMMs tend to have plastic ones. Before you can remove your RAM, you'll need to gingerly pry these latches away from the module.
After you've pried the tabs off your SIMM, carefully rock the module forward past the latch on the socket using only your fingertips. If you use a screwdriver for this task, one slip could cost you a motherboard. Use your fingers. You don't want to end up using too much force or applying force to the wrong parts of the module. Once the module has moved past the latches, slowly pull it out.
168-pin DIMM slots
DIMM modules are much easier to remove. After you've unlocked the tabs, simply hook a finger alongside both edges of the module and pull it straight out of the socket.
Install a SIMM by sliding the module into the socket at an angle, pulling it up so that it's vertical. Chips should be facing the front of the motherboard. You can tell that the SIMM is oriented correctly if the small notch on one side of the SIMM matches the corresponding plastic tab on the SIMM socket. If it seems to be bowed rather than perfectly straight when you install it, you may need to reinstall it.
Installing a DIMM is much easier than installing a SIMM. Pull the small plastic tabs on either side of the DIMM socket outward so that they're slightly away from the socket. You should see a pair of notches on the DIMM that correspond to each key in the socket. Match the direction so the notch matches the key, then push the DIMM straight down. If you do it correctly, the plastic tabs you originally pulled out will click back into place by themselves. It will require some force so don't hesitate to lean into it just a bit.
That's really all there is to installing RAM!
Post-installation
After you plug the power back in and reboot, your PC should automatically recognise the RAM. If it doesn't, consult our troubleshooting guide.
