How to Install RAM in Your Apple iMac With Intel Processor

The Apple iMac with the Intel Core Duo processor is a total workhorse, but the default configurations tend to be light on the needed RAM to run the applications you want. Upgrading the iMac with up to 2GBs of RAM turns this workhorse into a thoroughbred racehorse. If you do the upgrade yourself, you can save about $300 over what Apple charges to do it for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Apple iMac computer
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Compatible RAM modules
• ESD wrist strap for electro static discharge protection

1. Turn off your iMac and let it cool down for about 10 minutes.

2. Unplug all the cables, including the power cable on the back of the machine.

3. Lay a towel on your table or other work surface so that you won't scratch the screen of your iMac.

4. Gently lay the iMac face down on the towel and locate the three captive screws on the base of the computer.

5. Unscrew the three screws with a Phillips #1 screwdriver. These screws will unscrew far enough to release the back cover from the chassis but will not come completely out of the back plate.

6. Lift up on the stand to remove the back cover.

7. The RAM modules are located on the right side of the case.

8. Remove the RAM modules you will be replacing by pressing outward on the plastic retainer clips until the module is released.

9. Lift the module out of the slot. Set aside to return to Apple in the packaging provided.

10. Line up the new RAM with the slot, matching the notched edge with the tab in the bottom of the slot.

11. Slide the module into the slot, pressing it gently the retainer tabs click into place.

12. Replace the back plate and tighten the three screws.

13. Replace the power cords, and power up the computer to check that the memory is installed correctly.

Tips & Warnings

• Touch a metal part of the computer before touching the memory DIMMs or anything else inside the computer. This is an easy way of grounding yourself if you don't have an ESD wrist strap.
• Install memory in paired DIMMs for best performance.