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5. Install the RAM
If you got a motherboard bundle , chances are your RAM is already installed and you can skip to Step 6. Install the Hard Drive.
RAM installation is very easy, and very foolproof.
As you look at the slots on your motherboard, pictured right , notice that there are notches that prevent you from installing the RAM backwards or upside down. The gold plated edge of the RAM is the part that will be going into the slot itself.
To determine which slots the memory will go into, please consult your motherboard manual. Each motherboard may be different as to how many slots need to be taken, and in which order. Not following the manual instructions can cause a big headache as illustrated in the example below.
Example: One time I built a brand new computer, everything was going well, then when I turned it on, nothing happened. I couldn't figure it out, then I finally read the motherboard instructions closely and it said that all the memory slots needed to be filled up. I only had two memory sticks, and four slots available, but they included two blank memory sticks that had to occupy any empty slots. I popped those in and it worked perfectly from there on out. That just goes to show you, it pays to read the directions, especially for complex things such as computers.
Once you establish which slots need to be filled up and in what sequence, it's just a matter of popping the memory into place.
Touch the case! Remember, if you're not using a static wristband then make sure you are always touching the case while handling electronic components. I usually just make sure my forearm is touching the perimeter of the case.
Those white tabs at the ends of each slot will need to be opened away from the slot itself. Those are what hold the memory into place. Once those are opened, just determine which way the RAM should fit in there, making sure the notches on the gold plated side match up with the notches in the RAM slot. Then firmly press down until those white tabs pop back in towards the slot, locking the RAM into place. Don't be afraid to use a little pressure, but make sure everything is lined up correctly before you do.
That's it, your RAM is installed and ready to go!
Now you're ready to
Install the Hard Drive (Step 6)