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Install a memory module

Use this information to install a memory module option.

Before installing a memory module, make sure that you understand the required installation order, depending on whether you are implementing memory mirroring, memory rank sparing, or independent memory mode. See Memory module installation rules and order for detailed information about memory configuration and setup.

If you are installing an optional processor, install it before installing memory modules. See Install a processor-heat-sink module

Before you install a memory module, complete the following steps:

  1. Read Installation Guidelines to ensure that you work safely.

  2. Carefully lay the compute node on a flat, static-protective surface, orienting the compute node with the bezel pointing toward you.

  3. Remove the compute node cover (see Remove the top cover).

To install a memory module, complete the following steps:

Attention
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.

Note
Remove or install memory modules for one processor at a time.

  1. Locate the memory module connectors. Determine which memory module connector you want to install the memory module.
  2. Touch the static-protective package that contains the memory module to any unpainted metal surface on the Lenovo Flex System chassis or any unpainted metal surface on any other grounded rack component in the rack in which you are installing the memory module for at least 2 seconds; then, remove the memory module from its package.
  3. Make sure that both retaining clips on the memory module connector are in the open position.
    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 connector, handle the clips gently.
    Figure 1. Opening retaining clip
    Opening retaining clip
    Note
    • If necessary, due to space constraints, you can use a pointed tool to open the retaining clips. Place the tip of the tool in the recess on the top of the retaining clip; then, carefully rotate the retaining clip away from the memory module connector.
    • The retaining clips for adjacent memory module connectors of processor one and processor two can not be open at the same time. Remove or install the memory modules for each processor one at a time.
  4. Turn the memory module so that the memory module keys align correctly with the memory module connector on the system board, and gently place the memory module on the connector with both hands.
  5. Firmly press both ends of the memory module straight down into the memory module connector until the retaining clips snap into the locked position.
    Figure 2. Memory module installation
    Memory module installation
  6. Make sure that the small tabs on the retaining clips engage the notches on the memory module. If there is a gap between the memory module and the retaining clips, the memory module has not been correctly installed. Press the memory module firmly into the connector, and then press the retaining clips toward the memory module until the tabs are fully seated.
    Note
    Retaining clips on the memory module connectors must be in the closed position to install the air baffle.
After you install the memory module, complete the following steps:

Demo video

Watch the procedure on YouTube

  • DC Persistent Memory Module (DCPMM) setup
    Follow the instructions in this section to complete required setup before installing DCPMMs for the first time, determine the most suitable configuration, and install memory modules accordingly.