Your Dell computer comes equipped with two memory slots/connectors labeled 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 will be empty.
Generally, if you are adding memory, you will install a memory module in DIMM B only. If you are upgrading the memory, you may need to install memory modules in DIMM A and DIMM B, depending on the extent of the upgrade.
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.
Loosen the two captive screws securing the metal memory module cover, then remove the cover and
set it aside.
1
metal memory module cover
2
captive screws (2)
NOTE: The metal memory module cover may not be present on your computer.
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.
1
memory module
2
metal retention clips (2)
Remove the memory module from the connector at a 45-degree angle.
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 more than one memory module, install a memory module in the memory slot labeled
DIMM A before installing a module in the slot labeled DIMM B. Insert memory modules at a 45-degree angle to
avoid damaging the connector.
NOTE: If a memory module is not installed properly, the computer may not boot. No error message will be
displayed for this type of failure.
Remove the appropriate memory module cover and memory module, if installed (see Removing a
Memory Module).
Install the new memory module:
Align the notch in the memory module edge connector with the tab in the connector slot.
Slide the module firmly into the slot at a 45-degree angle, and then rotate the module down until
it clicks into place. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
1
memory module
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.
NOTE: The metal memory module cover may not be present on your computer.
Replace the memory module cover and tighten the screws.
As the computer boots, it detects the installed memory. The system configuration information remains the same.
If You Are Adding or Upgrading Memory
As the computer boots, it detects the change in memory and automatically updates the system configuration information.
Confirming Installed Memory
To confirm the amount of memory installed in the computer, use one of the following methods:
Click the Start button, then click Help and Support. Under Pick a task, click Use Tools to view your computer information and diagnose problems. Under Tools, click My Computer Information, then click Find information about the hardware installed on this computer.
Access the System Setup Program at startup by pressing <F2> immediately when the DELL logo appears. If you wait too long and the Microsoft® Windows® logo appears, continue to wait until you see the Windows desktop, then shut down your computer and try again. See "Using the System Setup Program" in your User's Guide.
