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Remove a DIMM

Use this information to remove a DIMM.

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.

Before you remove a DIMM, complete the following steps:

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

  2. Power off the compute node (see Power off the compute node for instructions).

  3. If the compute node is installed in a chassis, remove it (see Remove a compute node for instructions).
  4. Carefully lay the compute node on a flat, static-protective surface.

  5. Remove the compute node cover (see Remove the compute node cover for instructions).

After you install or remove a DIMM, you must change and save the new configuration information by using the Setup utility. When you turn on the compute node, a message indicates that the memory configuration has changed. Start the Setup utility and select Save Settings (see Management options for more information) to save changes.

To remove a DIMM, complete the following steps:

Note
Remove or install DIMMs for one processor at a time.

  1. Remove the air baffle (see Remove the air baffle for instructions).
  2. Locate the DIMM connectors (see System-board connectors for instructions). Determine which DIMM you want to remove from the compute node.
    Attention
    To avoid breaking the latch or damaging the DIMM connectors, handle the latches gently.
    Note
    The latch for adjacent DIMM connectors of processor and processor cannot be opened at the same time. Remove or install the DIMMs for each processor one at a time and close the latch after removing a DIMM.
  3. Carefully open the latch on each end of the DIMM connector.
    Figure 1. Opening DIMM latch
    Graphic illustrating opening the DIMM latch
    Note

    • If necessary due to space constraints, you can use a pointed tool to open the latches. Place the tip of the tool in the recess on the top of the latch; then, carefully rotate the latch away from the DIMM connector.

    • Make sure you use firm and solid pointed tool to open the latch. Do not use pencils or other fragile tools.

  4. Make sure that both latches on the DIMM connector from which you are removing the DIMM are in the fully-open position; then, pull the DIMM out of the connector with both hands.
    Figure 2. DIMM removal
    DIMM removal
    Attention
    To maintain proper system cooling, do not operate the compute node without an air baffle installed over the DIMM connectors.
    Note

    • If you are not immediately replacing the DIMM, install the air baffle (see Install the air baffle for instructions).

    • Latches on the DIMM connectors must be in the closed position to install the air baffle correctly.

If you are instructed to return the DIMM, follow all packaging instructions, and use any packaging materials for shipping that are supplied to you.

Demo video

Watch the procedure on YouTube