Install a memory module

Use this information to install a memory module.

About this task

See Memory module installation rules and order for detailed information about memory configuration and setup.

Attention

• Read Installation Guidelines and Safety inspection checklist to ensure that you work safely.

• Make sure to remove or install memory module 20 seconds after disconnecting power cords from the system. It allows the system to be completely discharged of electricity and safe for handling memory module.

• Memory modules are sensitive to static discharge and require special handling. In addition to the standard guidelines for Handling static-sensitive devices:

  • Always wear an electrostatic-discharge strap when removing or installing memory modules. Electrostatic-discharge gloves can also be used.

  • Never hold two or more memory modules together so that they touch. Do not stack memory modules directly on top of each other during storage.

  • Never touch the gold memory module connector contacts or allow these contacts to touch the outside of the memory-module connector housing.

  • Handle memory modules with care: never bend, twist, or drop a memory module.

  • Do not use any metal tools (such as jigs or clamps) to handle the memory modules, because the rigid metals may damage the memory modules.

  • Do not insert memory modules while holding packages or passive components, which can cause package cracks or detachment of passive components by the high insertion force.

  • DIMM fillers must be installed in unused slots for proper cooling.

• Before installing 24 Gb DRAM RDIMMs to a system with 4th Gen Intel Xeon processors (codenamed Sapphire Rapids), make sure to update the UEFI firmware to the latest version first, then remove all existing 16 Gb DRAM RDIMMs.

The following illustration shows the location of the memory module connectors on the system board.

Figure 1. Memory module connector location

Note

The following illustration might differ slightly from your hardware, but the installation method is the same.

Watch the procedure

• A video of this procedure is available at YouTube.

Procedure

1. Remove the memory module tool attached to the DIMM comb.
   Figure 2. Memory module tool removal
   
   

   Note

   Memory module tool is recommended due to space limitations caused by location of water loop tubes through the memory section.
2. Unlock the retaining clips on each end of the memory module connector with the memory module tool.
   1. Place the tip of the tool on the top of the retaining clip.
   2. Press the tool to rotate and unlock the retaining clip.
   Figure 3. Pressing retaining clips on memory module connector
   
   

   Attention

   • Memory modules are static-sensitive devices. The package must be grounded before it is opened.

   • To avoid breaking the retaining clips or damaging the memory module connectors, open and close the clips gently.

3. Touch the static-protective package that contains the memory module to any unpainted metal surface on the outside of the node; then, remove the memory module from the package.
4. Align the memory module with the slot, and gently place the memory module on the slot with both hands.
5. Install the memory module.
   1. Hold the right end and left end of the memory module at the same time and keep it in parallel with the connector.
   2. Align the memory module with the connector while gently placing it onto the connector. Then, firmly press both ends of the memory module straight down into the connector until the retaining clips snap into the locked position.
   Figure 4. Memory module installation
   
   

   Note

   Memory module should be in horizontal position during installation.
   
   
6. Make sure the retaining clips are properly locked. If the retaining clips are open, firmly press right and left ends of the memory module until the clips are locked.
   Figure 5. Open and locked retaining clips on memory module connector
   
   
7. Install the memory module tool to the DIMM comb.
   Figure 6. Memory module tool installation