You can increase your computer memory by installing a memory module on the system board. See the "Specifications" section in your Owner's Manual for information on the memory supported by your computer. Be sure to add only a memory module that is intended for your computer.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Owner's Manual.
Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer
cover.
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
If the computer is connected to the media base (docked), undock it. See the
documentation that came with your media base for instructions.
Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
Wait 10 to 20 seconds, and then disconnect any attached devices.
Remove any installed PC Cards and battery.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer. Continue to ground
yourself periodically during this procedure.
Turn the computer over, unscrew both captive screw(s) from the memory
module/Mini PCI/modem cover, and remove the cover.
1
captive screw (2)
2
memory module cover
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the
memory module securing clips.
If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer. Continue to ground
yourself periodically during this procedure.
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)
Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
Align the notch in the module edge connector with the tab in the center of 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 hear the click, remove the module and
reinstall it.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot properly. No
error message indicates this failure.
1
memory module
2
connector
Replace the cover.
NOTICE: If the cover is difficult to close, remove the module and reinstall it. Forcing the cover
to close may damage your computer.
1
captive screw (2)
2
memory module cover
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, click the Start button, click Help and Support, and then click Computer Information.
In Windows 2000, right-click the My Computer icon on your desktop, and then click the General tab.
Replacing a Modem
CAUTION: Before performing any of the procedures listed below, read and follow the safety instructions in the System Information Guide.
Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer
cover.
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and then shut down the
computer.
If the computer is connected to a media base (docked), undock it. See the
documentation that came with the media base for instructions.
Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
Wait 10 to 20 seconds and then disconnect any attached devices.
Remove any installed PC Cards or blanks, battery, and devices.
NOTICE: Handle modules by their edges, and do not touch the components on a module.
Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer, and continue to do
so periodically during this procedure.
Turn the computer over and loosen the two captive screws on the modem cover, and
remove the cover.
1
captive screw (2)
2
cover
If a modem is not already installed, go to step 10.
If you are replacing a modem, remove the existing modem:
Remove the screw securing the modem to the system board, and set it aside.
Pull straight up on the attached pull-tab to lift the modem out of its connector on
the system board, and disconnect the modem cable.
1
modem cable connector
2
modem
3
modem screw
4
system board connector
Connect the modem cable to the modem.
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
Align the modem with the screw hole and press the modem into the connector on the
system board.
Install the screw to secure the modem to the system board.
Replace the cover.
Adding a Mini PCI Card
If you ordered a Mini PCI card with your computer, the card is already installed.
CAUTION: Before performing any of the procedures listed below, read and follow the safety instructions in the System Information Guide.
Ensure that the work surface is flat and clean to prevent scratching the computer
cover.
Save and close any open files, exit any open programs, and shut down the computer.
If the computer is connected to a media base (docked), undock it. See the
documentation that came with the media base for instructions.
Disconnect the computer from the electrical outlet.
Wait 10 to 20 seconds and then disconnect any attached devices.
Remove any installed PC Card or blanks, battery, and devices.
NOTICE: Handle modules and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
Ground yourself by touching a metal connector on the back of the computer. Continue to ground
yourself periodically during this procedure.
Turn the computer over, and loosen both the captive screw(s) from the Mini PCI card
cover and remove the cover.
1
captive screw (2)
2
cover
If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step 10.
If you are replacing a Mini PCI card, remove the existing card:
Disconnect the Mini PCI card from the attached cables.
1
cable connectors
Release the Mini PCI card by spreading the metal securing tabs until the card
pops up slightly.
1
latch release
2
MPCI card
Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini PCI card, never place cables on top of or under the card.
To replace a Mini PCI card, align the card with the connector at a 45-degree angle, and
press the Mini PCI card into the connector.
Lower the Mini PCI card toward the inner tabs to approximately a 20-degree angle.
Continue lowering the Mini PCI card until it snaps into the inner tabs of the
connector.
1
connector
2
Mini PCI card
Connect the antenna cable to the antenna connector on the Mini PCI card.
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed for correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
