The computer has two memory slots, DIMM A and DIMM B. DIMM A (under the keyboard) holds the basic memory module as configured from the factory. If you did not order additional memory, DIMM B (on the bottom of the computer) will be empty. Generally, if you are adding memory, you will install a memory module in DIMM B (on the bottom of the computer under the memory modules cover). If you are upgrading memory, you may need to install memory in DIMM A and B depending on the extent of the upgrade.
Memory Module DIMM B
CAUTION: Before working inside your Dell™ computer, read the safety instructions in your Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
Turn the computer over, loosen the two captive screws from the memory module cover, and
lift the cover.
1
captive screws (2)
2
memory module cover
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the inner
metal tabs that secure the memory module.
If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module.
NOTICE: Handle memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the components on a module.
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
securing clips (2 per connector)
2
memory module
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."
Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
Align the notch in the module with the slot in the center of the connector.
Slide the edge of the module firmly into the connector, and rotate the module down until
you feel a click. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer does not boot. The Num Lock and
Scroll Lock lights blink about ten times.
Replace the cover and screws.
NOTICE: If the memory module 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.
If You Are Replacing Memory
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, click Help and Support, and then click Computer Information.
Access the System Setup Program 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.
Memory Module DIMM A
CAUTION: Before working inside your Dell™ computer, read the safety instructions in your Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface.
NOTE: Memory modules purchased from Dell are covered under your computer warranty.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the memory module connector, do not use tools to spread the inner
metal tabs that secure the memory module.
1
palm rest
2
securing clips (2)
3
memory module
If you are replacing a memory module, remove the existing module.
NOTICE: Handle memory modules by their edges, and do not touch the components on a module.
Use your fingertips to carefully spread apart the securing clips on each end of the memory
module connector until the module pops up.
1
securing clips (2 per connector)
2
memory module
Remove the module from the connector.
NOTE: If you need to install memory modules in two connectors, install a memory module in the
connector labeled "DIMMA (Slot 1)" before you install a module in the connector labeled "DIMMB (Slot
2)."
Ground yourself and install the new memory module:
Align the notch in the module with the slot in the center of the connector.
Slide the edge of the module firmly into the connector, and rotate the module down until
you feel a click. If you do not feel the click, remove the module and reinstall it.
1
securing clips (2 per connector)
2
memory module
NOTE: If the memory module is not installed properly, the computer does not boot. The Num Lock and
Scroll Lock lights blink about ten times.
Replace the keyboard and center control cover.
NOTICE: If the memory module 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.
If You Are Replacing Memory
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, click Help and Support, and then click Computer Information.
Access the System Setup Program by pressing <F2> immediately when the DELL™ logo appears. If you wait too long and the 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.
Mini PCI Card
If you ordered a Mini PCI card at the same time that you ordered your computer, Dell has already installed the card for you.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your Product
Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
Turn the computer over, and loosen the captive screws on the memory module cover.
1
captive screws (2)
2
memory module cover
If a Mini PCI card is not already installed, go to step 4. If you are replacing a Mini PCI card,
remove the existing card:
Disconnect the Mini PCI card from any attached cables.
1
antenna cables (2)
2
metal securing tabs
3
Mini PCI card connector
4
Mini PCI card
Release the Mini PCI card by spreading the metal securing tabs until the card pops up
slightly.
Lift the Mini PCI card out of its connector.
1
Mini PCI card connector
2
Mini PCI card
3
antenna cables (2)
NOTICE: To avoid damaging the Mini PCI card, never place cables on top of or under the card.
NOTICE: The connectors are keyed to ensure correct insertion. If you feel resistance, check the
connectors and realign the card.
To install the Mini PCI card, align the Mini PCI card with the connector at a 45-degree angle,
and press the Mini PCI card firmly into the connector. Press down until you feel a click.
Connect the antenna cables to the Mini PCI.
Replace the cover and tighten the screw.
Modem
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, read the safety instructions in your Product
Information Guide.
CAUTION: To prevent static damage to components inside your computer, discharge static electricity
from your body before you touch any of your computer's electronic components. You can do so by
touching an unpainted metal surface.
NOTICE: Handle components and cards by their edges, and avoid touching pins and contacts.
Turn the computer over, and loosen the captive screws from the memory module cover.
1
captive screws (2)
2
memory module cover
If a modem is not already installed, go to step 4. If you are replacing a modem, remove the
existing modem:
Remove the M2 x 3-mm 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
2
modem
3
pull-tab
4
screw
5
system board connector
NOTICE: Cable connectors are keyed for correct insertion; do not force the connections.
If you are installing a modem, connect the modem cable to the modem.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to the modem, press the modem into the connector directly over the
connector.
Align the modem with the screw hole, and press the modem into the connector directly
over the connector on the system board.
Replace the M2 x 3-mm modem screw and secure the modem to the system board.
Replace the memory module cover.
Modules
Your computer ships with an optical drive installed in the module bay. However, the device screw is not installed in the optical drive but packaged separately. When you install your device in the module bay, you can install the device screw.
NOTE: You do not need to install the device screw unless you want to secure the module inside the
computer for security purposes.
If the Device Screw Is Not Installed
NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in
the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.
Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.
1
device latch release
Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
If the Device Screw Is Installed
If the computer is connected to a docking device (docked), undock it. See the documentation
that came with your docking device for instructions.
NOTICE: To prevent damage to devices, place them in a safe, dry place when they are not installed in
the computer. Avoid pressing down on them or placing heavy objects on top of them.
Close the display and turn the computer over.
Use a #1 Phillips screwdriver to remove the M2 x 3-mm screw from the bottom of the
computer.
1
device latch release
2
M2 x 3-mm screw
Press the device latch release so that the latch release pops out.
Pull the device by the latch release to remove the device from the module bay.
NOTICE: Insert devices into the module bay before you dock and turn on the computer.
