Your Dell computer is equipped with two memory slots/connectors, DIMM A and DIMM B. DIMM A (located under the keyboard) holds the primary memory module as configured from the factory. DIMM B (located on the bottom of the computer) holds any additional memory you may have ordered. If you did not order additional memory, DIMM B is empty.
You can increase your computer memory by installing additional memory modules. For information on the memory supported by your computer, see "Specifications" in your User's Guide. Install only memory modules that are intended for your computer.
Generally, when adding a single memory module, install the additional memory module in DIMM B. If you are upgrading the memory, you may need to install memory modules in both DIMM A and DIMM B, depending on the extent of the upgrade.
NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in DIMM A before you install a module in DIMM B.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
Removing a Memory Module
CAUTION: Before you perform any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the back panel on the computer.
DIMM A Connector
NOTICE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.
Loosen the captive screw securing the memory module cover, then remove the cover and set it aside.
1
captive screw
2
memory module cover
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools of any kind to spread the metal clips that secure the module.
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the metal clips securing each end of the memory module
until the module pops up.
Remove the memory module from the connector at a 45-degree angle.
1
memory module
2
metal retention clips (2)
Replacing a Memory Module
CAUTION: Before you perform any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To avoid electrostatic discharge, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by periodically touching an unpainted metal surface, such as the back panel on the computer.
NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in DIMM A before you install a module in DIMM B.
NOTICE: Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector. If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot. No error message is displayed to indicate this type of failure.
NOTE: For optimal performance, identical memory modules should be used in each connector.
Align the notch in the memory module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot, then slide
the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle.
Rotate the module down until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and
reinstall it.
Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical
outlet.
Turn on the computer.
The computer detects the additional memory during startup and automatically updates the system configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer:
In the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system, click Start, right-click the My Computer icon, click Properties, and then click General.
In the Microsoft Windows Vista™ operating system, click Start ® Help and Support® Computer Information.
DIMM B Connector
Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot, then slide the
module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle.
Rotate the module down until it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and
reinstall it.
Replace the memory module cover and tighten the screw.
NOTICE: If the memory module cover is difficult to close, remove the memory module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover to close may damage your computer.
Insert the battery into the battery bay, or connect the AC adapter to your computer and an electrical
outlet.
Turn on the computer.
The computer detects the additional memory during startup and automatically updates the system configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer:
In the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system, click Start, right-click the My Computer icon, click Properties, and then click General.
In the Microsoft Windows Vista™ operating system, click Start ® Help and Support® Computer Information.
