How to Install Memory in Your Desktop

Equipment needed

Static electricity can damage the components in your system. To protect your system's components from static damage during the installation process, touch any of the unpainted metal surfaces on your computer's frame or wear an ESD wrist strap before handling internal components. Either method will safely discharge static electricity that's naturally present in your body.
When handling memory modules, be sure to hold them along the side edges using your thumb and index finger. Avoid touching the components and gold pin connectors as damage can occur.

Make sure you are working in a static-safe environment. Remove any plastic bags or papers from your workspace.
Shut down your system. Once your system has been powered off, unplug the power cable.
Discharge residual power by pressing and holding the power button for 3-5 seconds.
Remove your computer's case cover. Refer to your owner's manual for how to do this.
To protect your new memory modules and your system's components from static damage during the installation process, touch any of the unpainted metal surfaces on your computer's frame or use an ESD wrist strap before handling memory and internal components.
Locate the memory slots on your desktop using your owner's manual.
Remove existing modules as needed. Maximize the performance of your system by filling each slot with high density modules.
Align the notches on the module with the ridges in the memory slot. Insert module using ﬁrm and even pressure, and push down on the module until the clips on the side of the slot snap into place. (Note: It can take up to 30 pounds of pressure to install a module.) If you have more than one open memory slot, fill the lowest numbered slot first. If you can't see any numbers on your motherboard, use the slot that is closest to the filled slots. Consult your owner's manual if necessary.
Once your new modules have been installed, replace the case cover on your computer and reconnect the power cord. Installation is now complete.

If your system does not boot, check the following:

If you receive an error message or hear a series of beeps, your system may not be recognizing the new memory. Remove and reinstall the modules to ensure they are securely seated in the sockets.
If your system won't boot, check all of the connections inside your computer. It is easy to bump a cable and pull it out of its connector, disabling devices such as your hard drive or CD-ROM. If your system still won't reboot, contact Crucial Technical Support.
When restarting your system, you may get a message prompting you to update the configuration settings. Refer to your owner's manual for information. If you are still unsure, please call Crucial Technical Support for assistance.
If you get a memory mismatch message, follow the prompts to enter the Setup menu, and then select Save and Exit. (This is not an error—some systems must do this to update the system settings.)

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