How Do I Change the Onboard RAM on a Dell Inspirion 700M?

Memory module

Some laptops have a pair of memory module compartments, with one being for the main or default memory and the other being for memory expansion. The Dell Inspiron 700m is one of those laptops. The main memory module is located in a compartment beneath the keyboard. If the module dies, as they sometimes do, the computer will slow down drastically with less power to process information. You can replace the module and get your computer running fast again.

Things You'll Need

• Memory module
• Phillips-head screwdriver
• Flat-head screwdriver

Instructions

1. Shut down the computer, disconnect the power cable and remove the battery.

2. Use a flat-head screwdriver to pry apart both of the hinge latches on the back of the display. There's one latch on both sides of the display.

3. Insert the flat-head screwdriver into the notch on either side of the hinge cover above the keyboard and pry it up.

4. Lift the hinge cover up and disconnect the cable that goes into the motherboard. Take the cover off the computer by going from the side you started on to the other side until you've completely removed it.

5. Extract the two screws at the top of the keyboard and flip it toward the display to expose the flat cable underneath it.

6. Disconnect the flat cable and take the keyboard off the computer.

7. Locate the memory module compartment in the keyboard space. Remove the two screws from the cover and lift it to expose the existing memory module.

8. Spread the tabs that secure the existing memory module and it will pop up at an angle.

9. Pull the module out of the port and insert the new one at an angle and press down until the tabs lock into its sides.

10. Replace the memory module compartment cover and the screws that came out of it.

11. Replace the keyboard by connecting the flat cable first and then laying it into its space. Insert the screws.

12. Connect the hinge cover cable and replace the cover.

13. Put on the battery and the power cable to finish the procedure.

References

• Dell™ Inspiron™ 700m Service Manual