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Install a memory module

Follow instructions in this section to install a memory module.

About this task

Attention

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

  • Memory modules are sensitive to static discharge and require special handling. Refer to the standard guidelines at 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 do not touch each other. 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.

Firmware and driver download: You might need to update the firmware or driver after replacing a component.
Watch the procedure
  • A video of this procedure is available at YouTube.

Procedure

  1. Make preparation for the task.
    1. Power off the server and peripheral devices and disconnect the power cords and all external cables. See Power off the server.
    2. If the server is installed in a rack, slide the server out on its rack slide rails to gain access to the top cover, or remove the server from the rack. See Remove the server from rack.
    3. Remove the top cover. See Remove the top cover.
    4. If your server comes with an air baffle or a middle cage, remove it. See Remove the air baffle or Remove the middle drive cage and drive backplanes.
    5. Locate the required memory module slot on the system board assembly. Ensure that you observe the installation rules and sequence in Memory module installation rules and order.
  2. Touch the static-protective package that contains the new part to any unpainted surface on the outside of the server. Then, take the new part out of the package and place it on a static-protective surface.
  3. Install the memory module into the slot.
    Attention

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

    • If there is a gap between the memory module and the retaining clips, the memory module has not been correctly inserted. In this case, open the retaining clips, remove the memory module, and then reinsert it.

    Figure 1. Memory module installation
    Memory module installation
    1. Gently open the retaining clip on each end of the memory module slot.
    2. Align the memory module with the slot, and gently place the memory module on the slot with both hands.
    3. Firmly press both ends of the memory module straight down into the slot until the retaining clips snap into the locked position.

After you finish

Complete the parts replacement. See Complete the parts replacement.