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Q: I have a TXPro II M571 mainboard. If I were to upgrade its memory to 64 megabytes (MB) synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) PC100, can my Pentium Processor (133 megahertz) support it? I heard from my friends that PC100 SDRAM can only support AMD K6/2 400 and above or Pentium II and above. If I want to upgrade to 64MB SDRAM what are the steps I need to follow to successfully install the RAM? - Chng Toh Way
A: Most processors will co-operate with either extended data out (EDO) or SDRAM. The more important issue is whether the board will support SDRAM. If the board supports SDRAM, then most (if not all) types of SDRAM in the market should be able to fit.
* Purchasing: Before visiting the vendor, it might be helpful to determine the type of SDRAM socket on the mainboard. Mainboards with gold contacts on the SDRAM sockets should only be mated to SDRAM with gold contacts. Similarly, SDRAM with tin contacts should only be installed in SDRAM sockets with tin contacts.
Q: I have a TXPro II M571 mainboard. If I were to upgrade its memory to 64 megabytes (MB) synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM) PC100, can my Pentium Processor (133 megahertz) support it? I heard from my friends that PC100 SDRAM can only support AMD K6/2 400 and above or Pentium II and above. If I want to upgrade to 64MB SDRAM what are the steps I need to follow to successfully install the RAM? - Chng Toh Way
A: Most processors will co-operate with either extended data out (EDO) or SDRAM. The more important issue is whether the board will support SDRAM. If the board supports SDRAM, then most (if not all) types of SDRAM in the market should be able to fit.
However, do check your mainboard manual and the manufacturer's Web site (www.pcchips.com.tw) to confirm that there are no restrictions as to the type of SDRAM that can be fitted.
These steps are advisable in order to successfully procure and install SDRAM.
* Purchasing: Before visiting the vendor, it might be helpful to determine the type of SDRAM socket on the mainboard. Mainboards with gold contacts on the SDRAM sockets should only be mated to SDRAM with gold contacts. Similarly, SDRAM with tin contacts should only be installed in SDRAM sockets with tin contacts.
When visiting the vendor, it might be a good idea to bring an anti- static bag with you (in case the vendor does not supply one). Inspect the SDRAM before purchasing to ensure that the gold or tin contacts are not tarnished or damaged. Hold the SDRAM up to a bright light and inspect the contact holes.
I have come across cases where a sticker is pasted over the contacts and later removed. This leaves adhesive residue on the fingers and holes. This residue will reduce the stability of the SDRAM. Also ensure that the right kind of SDRAM is purchased.
After the SDRAM is procured, carry the SDRAM in the bag to avoid static damage.
Handle the SDRAM with care. If public transport is used, ensure that the RAM is adequately protected. SDRAM modules may look sturdy, but they are actually quite fragile and may snap if handled roughly.
* Installation: Ensure that the computer is off before any RAM is installed.
Remove the SDRAM from the anti-static bag only when you are ready to install it. Then, ensure that the RAM is oriented correctly (the extensions on the SDRAM socket should match the notches on the SDRAM module).
Remove the personal computer (PC)'s chassis cover. It is usually a better idea to remove the mainboard from the main chassis before installation.
Installing the SDRAM with the mainboard still in the chassis is not recommended unless the SDRAM sockets are situated in an easily accessible spot (which is not the case for most mainboards).
Most quality chassis provide a method of removing the mainboard and backing plate from the chassis without having to actually unattach the mainboard.
If your chassis provides such a feature, then it would be a good idea to use it. Otherwise, it might be necessary to unattach the mainboard.
Either way, ensure that all cables are removed before removing or unattaching the mainboard.
Open the clips on either side of the SDRAM socket.
Ensure that the SDRAM is completely vertical (that is, the angle between the SDRAM and the board should be 90 degrees) and not slanted.
Gently push the SDRAM into the socket. If all goes well, the SDRAM should snap in, and the two side clips snap into place.
If it does not go in, do not force the module. Instead, remove the module and check to see if it is oriented correctly and is completely vertical. Also check to see if there are any obstructions in the socket or on the SDRAM pins.
After installing the SDRAM, replace the mainboard, all connecting cables and the chassis cover. Switch on the PC. The new SDRAM should be detected by the basic input/output systems.
The writer can be contacted at [email protected].
Copyright New Straits Times Press, Ltd. Jan 27, 2000