How to Replace the RAM in a Dell Computer

The first step is replacing your RAM is to identify yourself with the computer. Some times the simple task of opening the case can been an adventure in itself. Check out this case for example. It does not open from a sliding door or by removing a side panel. Instead it opens up much like the hood of a car. Take care not to break or damage your Dell computer case when attempting to open it. Click here for a detailed picture of the computer case.

The second step is to find the location of the RAM DIMM slots. These can typically be anywhere on the Dell computer's motherboard. However, they typically tend to be placed somewhere on the edge of the motherboard. Before attempting to remove the RAM that may already be in place, you will want to apply some pressure to the white clips that are located to the left and right of the RAM stick. The white RAM clips are what holds the RAM into place and keeps it from moving. You can click here to get a closer picture of the RAM clips.

After the RAM clips have been pressed down fully you can begin to loosen the RAM stick itself. Pull the RAM stick using a rocking back and forth motion. Moving it from white clip to white clip. Be extremely careful to not move the stick from side to side. Doing so can damage both the RAM and the Dell computers motherboard. Once it has been pulled free of the DIMM slot you can set it off to the side. You can see a more clear picture of this by clicking here.

Before you set the new stick of RAM into the Dell computer's DIMM slots you will need to make sure the white RAM clips are pressed down fully. The RAM will not fit into the DIMM slots if the clips are in the way. In this picture you can see the difference between closed and open RAM clips. It's also a good idea to clear any other debris out of the way. You can use a can of air to spray the area if you like. To get an up-close view of the RAM clips you can click here.

When seating the new stick of RAM into the Dell computer's DIMM slot, be sure to like up all your marks. Every stick of RAM has an notch somewhere along the length of the brass plates. Use this notch as your guide for proper placement. Taking a look at the DIMM slots on the Dell computer's motherboard will help you identify the nook it needs to line up with. Click here to see a picture to verify the location of these. Now, before you go any farther, be sure that your RAM is compatible with the Dell motherboard or it will not work.

Once you have lined up your marks you can insert the stick of RAM into the DIMM slot. Apply enough pressure on both ends of the stick of RAM to move the RAM clip into it's locked position. You should hear an audible snap when it becomes locked in place. Once each side is locked in you should be ready to go. Click here to see how to secure the stick of RAM into the Dell computer's motherboard.

If you would like to see a detailed tutorial on this you can watch this slide show.