How to Add Memory to a Dell Dimension
When your computer appears to slow down, one way to help increase its speed is by adding memory. You can easily purchase memory chips from various online sources or if you have a Dell Dimension and want to stick with Dell products, you can purchase additional memory chips from Dell itself. It is not difficult for a noncomputer person to add memory to a Dell Dimension, although sometimes, it is cheaper to purchase a new computer and then install additional memory.
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Instructions
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1
Shut down your computer, turn the computer off and unplug it.
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2
Open your computer case. There will be two thumbscrews on the back of the Dell Dimension computer case that will release the cover. The side of the computer case will then slide backward and lift away from the rest of the box.
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Locate the slots for RAM. These are short off-white slots that are near the power supply on the motherboard. They will be slightly longer than the RAM you are about to add. There will be at least one RAM chip already in place in one of the slots.
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Place your new RAM chip into a blank slot gently. It does not matter which slot you use; any will work. When you press the RAM into place, be sure the notch on the chip lines up with the slot. There will be a guide on the slot to ensure that you do not insert the chip backwards.
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5
Press down on the RAM chip until it locks into place. There are two guides on the side of the slot that will snap into place on the sides of the chip to ensure the chip does not fall out. It will take a bit of pressure to make the chip snap into place, so press straight down into the motherboard to get the chip in place.
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Close the computer case, put the thumbscrews back where they belong and start up the computer. Your Dell Dimension will sense the new RAM, which will be available to the operating system when the computer starts up.
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Tips & Warnings
You should never work inside a computer that is still plugged into an electrical power source.
