How to Replace Memory in an IBM Thinkpad Enhanced T-43

RAM is random access memory. The gold edges are the connectors.

The Thinkpad Enhanced T-43 laptop made by Lenovo, which owns the personal computer branch of IBM, features a single user-accessible slot for upgradable memory, also known as RAM. Increasing the memory in a computer allows the computer to run more processes, such as programs, simultaneously. Increased memory also allows programs and files to open more quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips head screwdriver

Instructions

1. Turn off the laptop. Unplug the power cable and peripheral connections. Close the lid and place the computer face down on a flat surface. Place the computer so that the hinge edge of the computer is farthest from you. with the bottom casing of the computer facing up. Remove the battery before proceeding to the next step.

2. Locate the memory module compartment cover just below the right corner of the battery compartment. Use the screwdriver to remove the single screw and lift the cover off of the computer.

3. Push the two plastic latches on each side of the memory module outward using your thumb and index finger.

4. Lift the memory module up slightly and pull it toward you while holding the plastic latches in the open position. Pull the module fully out of the compartment.

5. Hold the new memory so that the edge with the gold lines is facing the inside of the memory compartment. Hold the memory at about a 20-degree angle while pushing the gold-lined edge into the memory connection slot. Once this edge is in the slot, hold open the plastic latches while gently pushing the memory module downward into the compartment until it snaps into place.

6. Let go of the plastic latches. The latches should close, and part of them will go into the notches on each side of the memory module. If they do not fit into the notches, verify that the module is positioned properly and fully inserted into the slot.

7. Replace the compartment cover and the single screw to complete the installation.

Tips & Warnings

• Touch your hands to a non-electrified metal surface to disperse static from your hands before touching the memory module to prevent damage.

• Do not push too hard on the memory when installing it, because this can cause cracking or splitting on the surface of the memory module, rendering it useless.

References

• Lenovo IBM Support: Replace Thinkpad T-43 Memory