CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: If your computer has only one memory module, install the memory module in the connector labeled
"DIMM A."
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. 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 modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
The computer has two memory slots, DIMM A and DIMM B. DIMM A is located on top of the computer under the keyboard, and DIMM B is located on the bottom of the computer under the memory module cover. DIMM A holds the basic memory module as configured from the factory. If you did not order additional memory, DIMM B is empty. Generally, if you add memory, use DIMM B. If you are upgrading memory, you may need to install memory in DIMM A and DIMM B, depending on the extent of the upgrade.
Ground yourself by touching one of the metal connectors on the back of the computer.
NOTICE: If you leave the area, ground yourself again when you return to the computer.
If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-
module securing clips.
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
module connector until the module pops up.
Remove the module from the connector.
1
memory module
2
securing clips (2)
NOTICE: Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error message
indicates this failure.
Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and rotate the module down until it
clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
Turn the computer upside-down, loosen the captive screw on the memory module cover, and then
remove the cover.
1
captive screw on memory module cover
If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module:
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the memory-module
securing clips.
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory module
connector until the module pops up.
Remove the module from the connector.
1
memory module
2
securing clips (2)
NOTICE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the connector
labeled "DIMM A" before you install a module in the connector labeled "DIMM B." Insert memory modules at a
45-degree angle to avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No error message
indicates this failure.
Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and 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 cover is difficult to close, remove the 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.
As the computer boots, it detects the additional memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer:
In the Microsoft® Windows® XP operating system, right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop. Click Properties®General.
In the Microsoft Windows Vista operating system, click the Windows Vista Start button ,
and right-click Computer®Properties.