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Remove a memory module

Use this information to remove a memory module. This section applies to both DRAM DIMMs and DCPMMs.

Read the installation GuidelinesPower off the server for this taskATTENTION: Static Sensitive Device Ground package before opening
Before removing a memory module:
  1. If you are removing a DCPMM in App Direct or Mixed Memory Mode, make sure to:

    1. Back up the stored data.

    2. If the App Direct capacity is interleaved:

      1. Delete all the created namspaces and filesystems in the operating system.

      2. Perform secure erase on all the DCPMMs that are installed. Go to Intel Optane DCPMMs > Security > Press to Secure Erase to perform secure erase.

      Note
      If one or more DCPMMs are secured with passphrase, make sure security of every unit is disabled before performing secure erase. In case the passphrase is lost or forgotten, contact Lenovo service.
      If the App Direct capacity is not interleaved:

      1. Delete the namespace and filesystem of the DCPMM unit to be replaced in the operating system.

      2. Perform secure erase on the DCPMM unit that is to be replaced. Go to Intel Optane DCPMMs > Security > Press to Secure Erase to perform secure erase.

  2. Remove the top cover. See Remove the top cover.

  3. Remove the air baffle. See Remove the air baffle.

Attention

  • Disconnect all power cords for this task.

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

    • 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. 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.

To remove a memory module, complete the following steps:

Watch the procedure

A video of this procedure is available at YouTube.

Figure 1. Memory module removal
Memory module removal

Note
A DCPMM module looks slightly different from a DRAM DIMM in the illustration, but the removal method is the same.

  1. Open the retaining clips on each end of the memory slot.
    Attention
    To avoid breaking the retaining clips or damaging the memory slots, handle the clips gently.
  2. Grasp the memory module at both ends and carefully lift it up to remove it from the slot.
After removing a memory module:

  1. Install a memory filler or a new memory module to cover the slot. See Install a memory module.

  2. If you are instructed to return the old memory module, follow all packaging instructions and use any packaging materials that are provided.