Installing or Replacing RAM

Introduction

Installation of new RAM in your system is not difficult, but remember to take precautions against static electricity. Do not attempt to bend a SIMM or force one out of its socket without releasing the clamps. The only tool you need is a screwdriver for opening the case.

Donít damage the new part.

Donít remove the new part from its antistatic bag until necessary.

Return the old part.

If you are replacing a part under warranty, to avoid being charged for the new part, you must return the old one to Gateway 2000 within 14 days of the new partís delivery.

Put the old part in the new box and use the shipping label we supplied. If there is no label, write your customer ID number and the RMA number the technician gave you on the outside of the box and send it to Gateway 2000 at the following address:

Gateway 2000
610 Gateway Drive
North Sioux City, SD  57049

Gateway pays to ship the new part to you, but you are responsible for sending the original part back.

Replacing/Upgrading RAM

Memory chips (RAM) are connected to the system board.

To install RAM in a desktop/tower unit:

1. Follow the steps in document 1286 to open the case. Then locate the memory chips: they stand vertically like little expansion cards. Note how the SIMMs fit in their sockets, for example, the direction that the component side faces.

2. If you need to remove the old SIMMS, follow this step. Otherwise skip to step 3.

3. Gateway 2000 systems may have either of two kinds of SIMM sockets. One kind has a metal clamp on each end that fits over the end of the SIMM. The other kind does not. If the sockets in your system have the little clamps, carefully pry the clamp off the SIMM and tilt the SIMM forward. Now lift it out of the socket. Repeat with each SIMM.

4. If your sockets don't have the clamp, insert a tool into the hole at each end of the SIMM and gently pry up. To avoid damaging the sockets, loosen one side and then the other before completely removing the SIMM.

5. If your system has the sockets with clamps at the ends, follow the directions in this paragraph. Otherwise, skip to the next paragraph. Installation is essentially the reverse of removal. Align the SIMM so it matches the alignment of the original SIMMS. Place the base of the SIMM, at an angle, into the socket, then tilt it back until it clicks into place as the clamps engage. (The clamps will not engage if the SIMM was not pressed far enough into the socket before you tilted it back.) Repeat with each SIMM.

6. If your system uses sockets with out clamps, insert the new SIMMs straight down into the empty sockets on the system board. Gently press straight down on the module until it snaps fully into the socket.

7. Some systems require you to change DIP switch settings after adding memory. Refer to your User's Guide for more information.

8. Replace the cover and power up the system. Follow the directions in your User's Guide about configuring your system in the CMOS setup utility for the new memory.

Troubleshooting RAM upgrade/installation

If the system fails to boot after replacing memory, turn the computer off and check the following possible problem areas:

• Check that all cables are correctly attached (keyboard, power, and so forth). Reseat the cables.

• Check that all power switches are ON. If the machine is plugged into a surge protector/power strip, set that switch ON also.

• Remove the cover and press down on the SIMM modules to be certain they are seated correctly. Reseat the modules. For a proper seating, it might be necessary to remove the system board and place it on a flat, firm surface before pressing the SIMM modules into the sockets.

• Remove the SIMMs and rearrange them so that each one is in a different socket.

If these steps fail to correct the problem, contact Gateway 2000 Technical Support for help.

The information in these articles is provided "as-is" without warranty of any kind, and all warranties are hereby disclaimed, whether express or implied, including, without limitation, the implied warranties of merchantability, fitness for a particular purpose and non-infringement. Gateway 2000 will not be liable for any damages whatsoever, whether direct, special, indirect, incidental, or consequential (including, without limitation, damages for loss of business profits, business interruption, loss of business information, or any other pecuniary loss) arising out of, or related to your use of, or inability to use the information in any such article, even if advised of the possibility of such damages. Because some states and jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of liability for consequential or incidental damages, the above limitation may not apply to you. You may not further distribute, reproduce, rent, sell, transfer or license these articles.

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