How to Avoid Damaging RAM During Installation

Hardware installation jobs require careful planning and operation. Random Access Memory (RAM) is an important component of your computer that determines the speed and memory of your machine. In case the existing RAM is corrupt, you need to take maximum precaution while installing a new RAM. Take extra care to avoid damaging the RAM when installing it.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Select a clean and dry space for RAM installation work. Make sure that the area is clear of all liquids and any prickly items that could hinder your work.

2. Open the computer case slowly. Lay out of the components such as the cover, screws and side panel within easy reach. All these items need to be returned to their original places after the RAM installation work is finished.

3. A wooden floor or rubber mat are best for the installation process.

4. Make sure the room has a humidity control facility and adjust the humidity level by turning on or off the air conditioning or heat.

5. Stay away from static electricity during the installation process. Remember that static electricity can damage your RAM (see link below).

6. Switch off the computer. Carefully clear the way to the RAM socket. Make sure you do not damage the pins while removing the damaged, old or corrupt RAM.

7. Prevent damage by carefully handling the RAM modules by their edges. Read handling instructions in the user's manual.

8. Use a vacuum cleaner or air blower to slowly to clean the motherboard before screwing the case back on.

9. Do not drop the RAM on the floor while handling. This may render it entirely useless.

10. Place the RAM neatly in the socket and check the alignment.

11. After returning each component you removed back to its original place, tighten the screws.

12. Switch on the computer. The computer should detect the new RAM. You can view the RAM size by right-clicking on "My Computer" and pressing the "Properties" button. This means the RAM installation is successful.

Tips & Warnings

• Sitting on a carpet while working with RAM is not recommended. It generates a lot of static electricity.
• Do not touch the metal contacts at the bottom of the RAM stick at any time during the installation process.
• If working at home, do not work near bathrooms or kitchens. These areas have higher humidity level compared to other rooms.

[Solus]

on 11/2/2007 @ Step9, try using a can of compressed CO2 meant for cleaning computer parts, instead

[IsaS]

on 7/31/2007 I would caution about Step number 9. Using a vacuum or air blower is a poor idea. Vacuums tend to have static charges, as well, are too large for the job, increasing the chance of damaging internal components of the computer. The only time a vacuum should be used, is from a distance, to pull away larger dust bunnies that have accumulated, even then, I would suggest compressed air(from a distance, and held upright). Air Blowers(air compressors) should never be used, as many of them contain condensation, and this would result in a spraying a mist of water onto electrical components. Furthermore, air compressors tend to have too much power for delicate computer parts.