User Guide

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Adding Memory

You can increase your computer memory by installing memory modules on the system board. For information on the type of memory supported by your computer, see "Memory" in "Technical Specifications."

NOTE: DDR 333 memory operates at 320 MHz when used with an 800-MHz front-side bus microprocessor.

DDR Memory Overview

DDR memory modules should be installed in pairs of matched memory size. This means that if you purchased your computer with 256 MB of memory installed and you want to upgrade to 512 MB of memory, you should replace the present memory with two 256-MB modules. If the DDR memory modules are not installed in matched pairs, the computer will continue to operate, but with a slight reduction in performance.

NOTE: Always install DDR memory modules in the order indicated on the system board.

The recommended memory configurations are:

• Install a pair of matched memory modules in connectors DDR_A0 and DDR_B0.
  
  
• Do not install ECC memory modules.
  
  
• Be sure to install a single memory module in connector DDR_A0 or the connector closest to the processor before you install modules in the other connectors.
  
  

NOTICE: If you remove your original memory modules from the computer during a memory upgrade, keep them separate from any new modules that you may have, even if you purchased the new modules from Dell. You should install your original memory modules in pairs in connectors DDR_A0 and DDR_B0. If possible, do not pair an original memory module with a new memory module. Otherwise, your computer may not function at optimal performance.

NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.

Installing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Owner's Manual or Product Information Guide.

1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
   
   
2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
   
   

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

3. Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
   
   
4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.
   
   
5. Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.
   
   

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

6. Open the computer cover.
   
   
7. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   

8. Align the notch on the bottom of the module with the crossbar in the connector.
   
   

NOTICE: To avoid damage to the memory module, press the module straight down into the connector while you apply equal force to each end of the module.

9. Insert the module into the connector until the module snaps into position.
   
   

If you insert the module correctly, the securing clips snap into the cutouts at each end of the module.

10. Close the computer cover.
    
    
11. Attach the computer stand (optional).
    
    

NOTICE: To connect a network cable, first plug the cable into the network wall jack and then plug it into the computer.

12. Connect your computer and devices to electrical outlets, and turn them on.
    
    
13. Right-click the My Computer icon and click Properties.
    
    
14. Click the General tab.
    
    
15. To verify that the memory is installed correctly, check the amount of memory (RAM) listed.
    
    

Removing Memory

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Owner's Manual or Product Information Guide.

NOTE: Memory purchased from Dell is covered under your computer warranty.

1. Shut down the computer through the Start menu.
   
   
2. Ensure that your computer and attached devices are turned off. If your computer and attached devices did not automatically turn off when you shut down your computer, turn them off now.
   
   

NOTICE: To disconnect a network cable, first unplug the cable from your computer and then unplug it from the network wall jack.

3. Disconnect any telephone or telecommunication lines from the computer.
   
   
4. Disconnect your computer and all attached devices from their electrical outlets, and then press the power button to ground the system board.
   
   
5. Remove the computer stand, if it is attached.
   
   

CAUTION: To guard against electrical shock, always unplug your computer from the electrical outlet before opening the cover.

6. Open the computer cover.
   
   
7. Press out the securing clip at each end of the memory module connector.
   
   
8. Grasp the module and pull up.
   
   

If the module is difficult to remove, gently ease the module back and forth to remove it from the connector.

9. Close the computer cover.
   
   
10. Attach the computer stand (optional).
    
    

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